4.5
(14095)
59,634
hikers
958
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide traverse a diverse landscape of dense forests, open meadows, and significant moorlands and heathlands. The area is characterized by unique natural features such as swamp forests and subsidence lakes, which formed due to coal mining and often feature dead trees. Streams like the Rotbach and Schwarzbach wind through the region, contributing to its varied ecological habitats. This protected natural area offers around 100 km of marked trails suitable for various fitness levels.
…Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.8
(78)
211
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(15)
53
hikers
16.2km
04:21
160m
160m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

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4.7
(21)
163
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(7)
53
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
24
hikers
3.49km
00:54
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide
It is a popular destination in the Ruhr area, especially appreciated for its mix of leisure activities, gastronomy, and the well-known motorcycle meeting point. It is nestled in the green belt of the Grafenwald and serves as an ideal starting point for hikes or bike tours.
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Always worthwhile and always different. Great local recreation in every season! My last visit at the end of 2025 left me amazed and in awe!
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The shelter was built by various craftsmen from Kirchhellen at the end of 2025 as part of the 125th anniversary celebrations of the Kolping Family Kirchhellen.
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Always something going on, with plenty of options for food, drinks, and snacks at reasonable prices. A good place for a break.
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Hello Daniel, the dump was open for use for a few months. It seems it's been closed again for some time now.
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Very pretty stream, nice that it is still accessible and can be experienced.
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Beautiful path through the forest
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Beautiful place on the slag heap
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There are over 945 hiking trails accessible from bus stations in Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide. This includes a wide variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels.
Yes, Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide offers a great selection of easy bus-accessible hikes. With over 690 easy routes, beginners can comfortably explore the diverse landscapes. An example of an easy route is the Grafenmühle Fishing Park – Path Along Halde Schöttelheide loop, which is just over 4 km long.
The bus-accessible trails in Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide offer a surprisingly varied landscape. You'll encounter dense forests of pine, oak, and birch, open meadows, and significant moorlands and heathlands. Look out for rare habitats like swamp forests and unique 'Bergsenkungsseen' (subsidence lakes) with their distinctive dead trees.
Absolutely. Many of the bus-accessible trails are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop without retracing your steps. For example, consider the Heath lake – Pfingstsee (Whitsun Lake) loop, which offers a comprehensive tour of the area's natural beauty.
The bus-accessible trails in Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.46 stars from over 1790 ratings. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the surprising diversity of the landscape, especially the unique lakes and heathlands.
Yes, several bus-accessible routes will take you past picturesque lakes. The Heidesee, a large former gravel pit, is a popular spot for lakeside walks and bird-watching. You might also encounter the unique subsidence lakes like the Senkungssee Elsbach (Pfingstsee), known for its mystical appearance with dead trees in the water.
While the Kirchheller Heide itself is relatively flat, some routes offer elevated perspectives. The nearby Halde Haniel, though a bit further, provides impressive panoramic views. Within the Heide, you'll find scenic spots like the View of the Heidesee, offering beautiful vistas over the water and surrounding nature.
Many bus-accessible trails in Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide are family-friendly, especially the easier and moderate routes. The diverse landscape keeps children engaged, and the Waldkompetenzzentrum Heidhof, often a starting point for trails, features a playground and kiosk, making it a great base for family outings.
Yes, Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide is generally dog-friendly. Most trails are suitable for dogs, but always keep them on a leash, especially in protected areas and near wildlife. Be mindful of other hikers and cyclists. Remember to check specific bus company rules regarding pet transport.
Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for black woodpeckers, silver herons, and kingfishers near the water bodies. You might also spot various waterfowl. The protected heathlands are home to unique plants, and if you're lucky, you might even glimpse a moor frog or a viper.
Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide is beautiful year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is ideal for longer hikes, and even winter can be magical with frosty landscapes. The well-maintained trails are generally accessible in all seasons, but always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments near some bus-accessible trailheads. The Waldkompetenzzentrum Heidhof, a popular starting point, has a kiosk. Additionally, there are often local eateries and pubs in the villages surrounding the Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide, easily reachable from bus stops.


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