4.5
(1214)
4,401
hikers
85
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Schalksmühle offer access to a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills, green forests, and picturesque river valleys. The region features prominent natural attractions such as the Glörtalsperre reservoir and the Volme River, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. Hikers can explore a network of trails that traverse fields, meadows, and dense woodlands, with elevations ranging across the area's undulating topography. This combination of natural features makes Schalksmühle a destination for exploring the Märkischer Kreis.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.7
(40)
148
hikers
11.3km
03:11
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(26)
77
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(9)
53
hikers
10.7km
02:56
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(8)
29
hikers
14.3km
04:10
380m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(10)
49
hikers
4.62km
01:16
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Glörtal Dam is a curved gravity dam made of rubble masonry, built between 1903 and 1904. It is located on the border between the Ennepe-Ruhr district and the Märkischer Kreis district in North Rhine-Westphalia. The dam is 32 meters high and its crest length is 168 meters.
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A beautiful circular hike with magnificent views of the mountains and Indian valleys.
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You are welcome to swim here!
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It's a great place to have a picnic!
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Beautiful view before entering the short dark forest.
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A highlight of the hiking trail is the Maxi-Bench near the Rotthausen hiking car park
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There are over 85 hiking routes in Schalksmühle that are easily accessible from bus stations. These trails cater to various fitness levels, with 53 easy, 28 moderate, and 4 difficult options available.
Yes, Schalksmühle offers several family-friendly routes accessible by bus. The area around the Glörtalsperre is particularly suitable, featuring a serene 3.4 km loop trail that is mostly flat with gentle undulations, ideal for families. Many trails also include informative boards and interactive stations. An easy option is the View of Herberge – View of Schalksmühle loop from Schalksmühle, which is just over 4.6 km.
Schalksmühle's bus-accessible hikes offer diverse landscapes, including fields, meadows, and dense forests. A central highlight is the Glörtalsperre (Glör Reservoir), with trails offering stunning views of the water. You can also explore picturesque routes along the Volme River and its valley, or discover the varied terrain around the Wortberg and through the Hälvertal.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes in Schalksmühle are circular. For example, the Glör Dam – Glörtalsperre Picnic Area loop from Glörtalsperre is a moderate 11.3 km circular trail. Another easy option is the View of the Sauerland Hills – View of Sterbecker Valley loop from Heedfeld, which is a 6.8 km loop.
The best seasons for hiking in Schalksmühle are spring and autumn. During these times, the landscape is particularly vibrant with colors, and the weather is generally pleasant for outdoor activities. Many trails are well-maintained and accessible year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most picturesque conditions.
While the focus is on natural beauty, the broader region around Schalksmühle does feature historical sites. For example, you could explore highlights like Altena Castle or Hohenlimburg Castle, which are accessible within the wider area. Some trails might also pass by historical mills or traditional farmsteads, offering glimpses into the region's past.
Many trails in Schalksmühle are dog-friendly, especially those through forests and open fields. The natural environment around the Glörtalsperre and the Volme River provides ample space for dogs to enjoy. Always ensure your dog is on a leash where required and respect local wildlife and other hikers.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in Schalksmühle, with an average score of 4.52 stars from over 1170 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained trails, and the serene atmosphere, especially around the Glörtalsperre. The accessibility from bus stations is also frequently highlighted as a major convenience.
Absolutely. For beginners or those looking for a shorter walk, the View of Herberge – View of Schalksmühle loop from Schalksmühle is an easy 4.6 km route. Another great option is the View of the Sauerland Hills – View of Sterbecker Valley loop from Heedfeld, an easy 6.8 km trail, both easily reachable by bus.
Yes, particularly around popular spots like the Glörtalsperre, you'll find gastronomy options such as beach cafés and restaurants with beer gardens directly at the dam. In the main municipality of Schalksmühle, there are also various eateries. It's always a good idea to check opening times, especially outside peak season.
Schalksmühle offers themed hiking trails such as the "VolmeSchatz" routes, which add an engaging element to the hiking experience. Another notable option is the "Natur-er & Kulturwandung" (Nature and Culture Hike) between the Rotthausen heights and the Glörtalsperre, offering diverse insights into the region's natural beauty and culture. Check local bus schedules to find the best connections to these starting points.


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