The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Seelhorst
4.5
(7448)
45,388
hikers
153
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails around Seelhorst offer access to a largely unspoiled urban forest in Hannover, Germany. This area is characterized by its species-rich and partially marshy environment, featuring primary tree species like pedunculate oaks, hornbeams, and ashes. An artificial stream, approximately 900 meters long, meanders through the forest, complemented by several natural stream courses. The terrain includes a dense herbaceous layer and offers a network of trails suitable for various outdoor activities.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around Seelhorst
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Bockmerholz Forest – Bockmerholz Nature Trail loop from Kirchrode-Bemerode-Wülferode, a 9.0 miles (14.5 km) moderate trail that takes about 3 hours 44 minutes to complete, exploring the dense forest environment.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Kronsberg South Hill Summit – South Hill loop from Laatzen, an easy 1.4 miles (2.2 km) path. This shorter route offers a pleasant walk around the South Hill, often completed in about 35 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Alte Leine Nature Reserve – View of the Alte Leine river loop from Laatzen, a 7.3 miles (11.8 km) trail leading through the nature reserve with views of the Alte Leine river, often completed in about 2 hours 58 minutes.
- Hiking around Seelhorst is defined by species-rich woodlands, marshy environments, and meandering stream courses. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and more challenging routes.
- The routes in Seelhorst are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 6,900 reviews. More than 44,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Seelhorst's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
5.0
(6)
17
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.6
(25)
79
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(21)
78
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
24
hikers
5.55km
01:26
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Great for a relaxing break
0
0
From the main station, you look directly into the city center and walk through a beautiful pedestrian zone - let's see if you can find the Gullyman and listen to his music for a moment 🎶 https://www.visit-hannover.com/Kultur-Sehenswürdigkeiten/Sehenswürdigkeiten/Auf-vielfältigen-Spuren/Der-singende-Kanaldeckel One warm cocoa later, we already reach: - The oldest cemetery in Hannover (St. Nikolai Cemetery) https://www.hannover.de/content/download/589365/file/St.+Nikolai_Friedhof.pdf - The Klagesmarkt (Saturday Market 8 AM - 1 PM) - And the oldest preserved Jewish cemetery in Northern Germany (Visits: friedhof.strangriede@web.de) https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alter_Jüdischer_Friedhof_an_der_Oberstraße From there, it's just a stone's throw to: - The Welfenschloss - The Sachsenross (The second selfie under its tail 😉) - And the Welfengarten https://herrenhaeuser-gaerten.hannover.de/Herrenhausen-erleben/Georgengarten-Welfengarten/Welfengarten Past the ruins of a knight's castle, we go into the: - Berggarten, where over 12,000 plant species 🌸 await your visit all year round https://herrenhaeuser-gaerten.hannover.de/Herrenhausen-erleben/Berggarten (Combined ticket Berg- and Großer Garten €8,-) - For kids and animal lovers, we go to Sea Life 😁 https://www.visitsealife.com/hannover/ On the opposite side, we then enter the: - Großer Garten, which many call the Herrenhäuser Gärten 🫣 https://www.visit-hannover.com/Kultur-Sehenswürdigkeiten/Sehenswürdigkeiten/Die-Herrenhäuser-Gärten Do you already know about the sensational fireworks in the Großer Garten? https://www.feuerwerk-hannover.de We now stroll through the Georgengarten and make a short detour at the Ihme to Lindener Berg to admire the blue Scilla blossoms https://punkt-linden.de/news/scilla-blueten-wochen-2026/ Back at the Ihme, we head into the LSG Obere Leine, where we can see clear signs of beaver 🦫. Those who wish can take a boat trip on the Maschsee or simply enjoy the hustle and bustle and the view https://www.uestra.de/service-und-mobilitaet/uestra-entdecken/maschseeflotte/ Through the Maschpark, we go to the New Town Hall, where the dome can be visited with a "slanted" elevator https://www.visit-hannover.com/Kultur-Sehenswürdigkeiten/Stadttouren/Öffentliche-Stadttouren-und-Führungen/Kuppelauffahrt-im-Bogenaufzug Feel free to check out my tour, which contains even more information.
1
0
The weir was used for energy generation and has been rebuilt several times. The associated turbine system generated electricity for the factory and is now part of a former power plant that is used as a bridge.
11
0
The area is primarily characterized by the Leine River, flanked by near-natural willow gallery forests and tall herbaceous meadows, as well as its partially near-natural and richly structured adjacent floodplains. In the north, there are extensive areas of agriculturally used grassland with varying levels of moisture and intensity of use. Smaller areas include scattered arable land, forest and shrub stands with varying soil moisture levels, and natural flood channels. The woody course of the meandering and heavily silted Old Leine River, with occurrences of, among others, the silt locust, is also characteristic. The southern part of the nature reserve, in contrast, is largely characterized by former marl and gravel mining waters. Riparian woody plants and small shrubs with varying levels of moisture and succession stages have developed along the banks. Agriculturally used grassland and arable land are only present in small areas here. Many landscape elements, such as oxbow lakes, remnants of floodplain forests, or even open gravel areas and steep cliffs, which occasionally form due to flooding, are valuable remnants of the former floodplain dynamics, which continue to naturally develop new habitats in the floodplain between the terrace edges on both sides of the lower terrace. The Leine River is of national importance as a supra-regional fish migration route and as a spawning and nursery water for migratory fish. Species such as brown trout, sea trout, and Atlantic salmon find habitat here. Otters and beavers also occur here. The area is also of great importance for bats, such as the greater mouse-eared bat and the pond bat. Also worth emphasizing is the national and state importance of the nature reserve as a resting area for numerous migratory bird species and as a breeding ground for various water and meadow bird species. These include, for example, the great egret, white-fronted goose, great crested grebe, gadwall, tufted duck, goldeneye, and smew. In addition to its significant importance for species and habitat conservation, the nature reserve also plays a significant role in providing environmentally friendly, peaceful recreational opportunities due to its proximity to the city, its unique diversity, uniqueness, and beauty. Source: NLWKN
0
0
On clear days, the view extends as far as the Brocken. The Mehrum coal-fired power plant will soon disappear from the panorama for good.
1
0
From here you have a beautiful view of the Leine.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Seelhorst?
Seelhorst offers a wide variety of dog-friendly hiking and walking routes. Our guide features over 150 trails suitable for you and your canine companion, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate hikes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly trails in Seelhorst?
The trails in Seelhorst are primarily characterized by a largely unspoiled, species-rich forest environment. You'll find paths winding through areas with pedunculate oaks, hornbeams, and ashes, often with a dense layer of ground vegetation. Some sections can be partially marshy, especially near the natural and artificial streams that meander through the forest.
Are there any easy, short dog walks suitable for beginners or older dogs?
Yes, Seelhorst has many easy options. For a shorter, gentle walk, consider the Kronsberg South Hill Summit – South Hill loop from Laatzen. It's an easy route covering about 2.2 km with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed outing with your dog.
Where can I find a longer, more challenging dog-friendly hike in the area?
For a more extended adventure, the Bockmerholz Forest – Bockmerholz Nature Trail loop from Kirchrode-Bemerode-Wülferode offers a moderate challenge. This route spans over 14 km, taking you through diverse forest landscapes and providing a good workout for both you and your dog.
Are there any specific landmarks or natural features to look out for on the trails?
While hiking in Seelhorst, you can explore the forest's natural beauty, including an artificial stream approximately 900 meters long, and several natural stream courses. The Dreibirkenwiese, a large clearing in the eastern part of the forest, is a notable spot for relaxation. You might also encounter an obelisk in the smaller eastern section of the forest.
Can I find circular dog-friendly routes in Seelhorst?
Many of the trails in Seelhorst are designed as loops, offering convenient circular routes. For example, the Maschsee – Schwien Bridge over the River Leine loop from Döhren-Wülfel is a moderate 8.2 km circular hike that allows you to explore the area without retracing your steps.
What is the best time of year to hike with my dog in Seelhorst?
Seelhorst is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming plants, while autumn offers vibrant fall colors. Summer provides shaded paths, and even in winter, a small toboggan hill in the southeastern section can be a fun addition to a crisp walk. The forest's dense tree cover makes it pleasant in most seasons.
Are there family-friendly dog walks in Seelhorst?
Absolutely. Seelhorst is well-suited for families with dogs. The forest features several playgrounds, including a centrally located one and two others at the forest's edge, making it easy to combine a dog walk with family activities. Many of the easier, shorter routes are perfect for all ages.
Where can I park when visiting Seelhorst for a hike with my dog?
Seelhorst is an urban forest, and parking is generally available in the residential areas surrounding the forest. Look for designated parking spots or street parking in districts like Bemerode, Mittelfeld, and Döhren, which border the forest.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the trails where I can go with my dog after a hike?
Yes, after your hike, you can find refreshments at the "Waldwirtschaft Seelhorst," a restaurant and beer garden located in the eastern section of the forest. This provides a convenient spot to relax and enjoy a meal or drink.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Seelhorst?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Seelhorst, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, natural environment, the well-maintained paths, and the overall accessibility of the forest for enjoyable walks with dogs.
Is there a trail that combines forest and water views?
Yes, the Alte Leine Nature Reserve – View of the Alte Leine river loop from Laatzen offers a moderate hike that includes views of the Alte Leine river, combining the tranquility of the forest with scenic water elements.
How can I reach Seelhorst using public transport with my dog?
Seelhorst is easily accessible by public transport within Hannover. Various bus and tram lines serve the surrounding districts of Bemerode, Mittelfeld, and Döhren, providing convenient access points to the forest trails. Check local transport schedules for the best route to your desired starting point.
Most popular routes around Seelhorst
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
