Top 20 Waterfalls in the Sauerland
Waterfalls in the Sauerland offer a diverse natural landscape characterized by forests, rivers, and rolling hills. This region in North Rhine-Westphalia is known for its scenic hiking opportunities and natural features. Visitors can explore various waterfalls, from natural cascades to historical water structures. The area provides a setting for outdoor activities amidst its varied terrain.
Best waterfalls in the Sauerland
- The most popular waterfalls is Waterfalls and Creekside Bench on the Bridges and Gorges Trail, a waterfall that features a bench on a small island in the stream. This spot offers a picturesque setting for a break during a hike.
- Another must-see spot is Plästerlegge Waterfall, a natural monument and the only natural waterfall in North Rhine-Westphalia. It is the tallest in the Sauerland region, with a drop of approximately 20 meters over a rocky cliff.
- Visitors also love Water staircase in Naturpark Sauerland-Rothaargebirge, a man-made structure where water flows over stone steps. This location showcases how much water can come from a small stream, highlighting historical construction.
- Sauerland is known for natural waterfalls, stepped waterfalls, and cascades along rivers. The region offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, often integrated into hiking routes.
- The waterfalls in the Sauerland are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2270 upvotes and 822 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Waterfalls and Creekside Bench on the Bridges and Gorges Trail
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Plästerlegge Waterfall
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Water staircase in Naturpark Sauerland-Rothaargebirge
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Bestwig Waterfall (Bestwig-Wasserfall)
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Möhne River in the Arnsberg Forest Nature Park
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Mühlenteich Waterfall
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" Walls of felled trees protect us from the wind at the top of the Schmallenberger Hohe. The descent leads to the historic water reservoir Mühlengraben of the Kloster - Grafschaft.
The deserted See Mühlenteich reached out to us.
Finally we can come to terms with ourselves.
First our hands, then the feet…
but the temptation was too great, clothes aside.
Sunday – high day…
Well it was very nice.
And John the Baptist, in heaven, stood by and looked at it…
We were, after our chastisement, sins free…”
Triggered to read the whole story or to other adventures during our walking week?
All our hiking experiences can be found in my Hochsauerland collection.
Have fun watching and reading
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Helden Waterfall
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Old Mill Ruins and Waterfall in Naturpark Sauerland-Rothaargebirge
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Hönne Waterfall
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Wooden Bridge Over the Creek
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Popular around Sauerland
European Divide Trail — 7,600 km across the continent
Ehmsenweg – Hiking through Western Sauerland
Bestwig Panorama Trail – 4 days of Sauerland views
11 Hessen trails – criss-cross through the countryside
Siegerland-Höhenring – A classic in six stages
Germany's Westphalian City Tour — linking historic town centres
Germany's Sauerland Forest Route – Views and discoveries
Siegerland-Höhenring – Discover a classic in 6 days
Römer‑Lippe Route – Water and history – 6 days
A fantastic adventure in Germany's Sauerland — bikepacking with a dog
Other adventures in the Sauerland
Tips from the Community
A great round tour. Technically easy to walk. Fitness should be present 👍
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The waterfall can only be reached on foot. In the village of Wasserfall, a sign points the way to the Plästerlegge waterfall. From there it is about a 20-minute walk. The path to the waterfall is not accessible with a stroller. Below the waterfall, there is a viewing platform with a seating area, which invites you to take a break. There are also information boards about the "Plästerlegge" nature reserve. The Plästerlegge is located in a nature reserve - therefore, in the summer months, the view of the waterfall may be limited due to vegetation! Tip: If there is continuous frost for a long period in winter, the waterfall will partially freeze over. A very special sight. But beware: the path to the waterfall can be quite slippery then. We recommend sturdy winter/hiking boots and hiking poles or possibly shoe spikes. See: https://www.sauerland.com/de/neusta-pois/plaesterlegge-der-wasserfall-in-bestwig-wasserfall
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I like things like that; the splashing sound 💦 is so calming. ☺️
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The former Schnellenberg mill burned down in the 1930s. Afterwards, it served as an ice storage facility for the Dortmund Stock Brewery. The ice was harvested from the ponds located above the mill.
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The above-mentioned Möhne Waterfall is not a waterfall in the usual sense. Rather, it is an artificially created dam in the Möhne River, from which an equally artificially created moat (mill race) was diverted, which in earlier times powered a grain mill. Today, the water in the former mill building still powers a generator to generate electricity. Like many rivers, there are several such dams on the Möhne (some up to about 2 meters high). The hydropower was used, among other things, for wood processing (sawmills) and stone processing (see, for example, the marble and granite processing by Dassel).
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great bike path
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit the waterfalls in the Sauerland region?
The best time to visit is often after rainy periods, when the water flow is strongest, creating a more impressive spectacle. For example, the Plästerlegge Waterfall is particularly beautiful when it has enough water. In winter, some waterfalls, like Plästerlegge, can freeze, offering a unique ice formation.
Are there family-friendly waterfall hikes in the Sauerland?
Yes, several waterfalls in the Sauerland are suitable for families. The Plästerlegge Waterfall is considered family-friendly, as is the Water staircase in Naturpark Sauerland-Rothaargebirge. The Möhne River in the Arnsberg Forest Nature Park area also offers family-friendly sections.
Can I bring my dog to the waterfalls in Sauerland?
Many trails and natural areas in the Sauerland are dog-friendly. For instance, the Plästerlegge Waterfall is noted as dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your canine companion.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the waterfalls?
Beyond the waterfalls themselves, you'll encounter diverse natural features. The Plästerlegge Waterfall is nestled within a green mixed forest with mosses and lichens. Many waterfalls are integrated into scenic hiking routes that wind through forests and along rivers, offering viewpoints and tranquil spots like the Waterfalls and Creekside Bench on the Bridges and Gorges Trail.
Are there historical sites or unique man-made structures near the waterfalls?
Yes, the region combines natural beauty with historical elements. The Water staircase in Naturpark Sauerland-Rothaargebirge is a notable man-made structure where water flows over stone steps, showcasing historical construction. You can also find the Old Mill Ruins and Waterfall in Naturpark Sauerland-Rothaargebirge, which is a historical site.
What outdoor activities can I do near the Sauerland waterfalls?
The Sauerland region offers a variety of outdoor activities near its waterfalls. You can explore extensive MTB trails, scenic road cycling routes, and numerous running trails. Many waterfalls are directly integrated into hiking routes, providing opportunities for walking and exploring the natural landscape.
Are there any waterfalls that are easy to access or involve short walks?
While many waterfalls are part of longer hiking routes, some can be accessed with shorter walks. The Waterfalls and Creekside Bench on the Bridges and Gorges Trail offers a picturesque spot for a break. The path to the Plästerlegge Waterfall, though winding, includes wooden steps, making it manageable for many visitors.
What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls in the Sauerland?
Visitors frequently appreciate the natural spectacle, especially after rainfall, and the tranquil, secluded atmosphere. The Plästerlegge Waterfall is praised for its beautiful natural display, which can be enjoyed from a comfortable bench. The Waterfalls and Creekside Bench on the Bridges and Gorges Trail is loved as a nice photo spot and a great place to take a break.
Is there a waterfall that is unique for its natural status?
Yes, the Plästerlegge Waterfall near Bestwig is particularly unique as it is the only natural waterfall in North Rhine-Westphalia and the tallest in the Sauerland region, with a drop of approximately 20 meters.
Are there any waterfalls that are part of a cycling route?
Yes, the Waterfall by the Finnentrop-Heggen–Attendorn Cycle Path is directly accessible from a cycling route, making it a convenient stop for cyclists exploring the region.
Can I find waterfalls that are part of a historical walking route?
Yes, the Mühlenteich Waterfall is mentioned in the context of a historical walking route, offering a blend of natural beauty and local history.
Are there any waterfalls with interesting structures or features?
Beyond natural cascades, you can find waterfalls with unique structures. The Former Water Reservoir and Stepped Waterfall features a brook gushing over stone steps from a small stone house, creating an interesting visual.
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Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls in the Sauerland:
