4.4
(9728)
49,716
hikers
116
hikes
Hiking around Boswachterij Dorst offers a diverse environment characterized by Scots pine forests, former heathland, and varied terrain. The area features distinctive clay pits and sand drifts, which contribute to its unique natural landscape. Light hills provide scenic views throughout the preserve, making it suitable for various hiking routes. The State Forestry Commission has developed the area for recreation, including well-maintained trails.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.4
(38)
200
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(40)
141
hikers
6.37km
01:36
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.5
(41)
177
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(26)
76
hikers
6.42km
01:37
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(32)
87
hikers
7.84km
01:59
10m
10m
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
Lovely place to relax after walking/cycling
2
0
One of the beautiful lakes in this area.
1
0
Unperturbed grazers. Only if you stand still. They come to you.
1
0
Beautiful view over some of the clay pits of Surae in the Dorst Forestry.
1
0
These fens were excavated for the Rijen brick factory. This factory no longer exists.
0
0
what could be at the bottom of this pool?
0
0
Boswachterij Dorst offers a varied landscape, primarily characterized by Scots pine forests planted on former heathland. You'll encounter distinctive natural features like clay pits and sand drifts, which create a unique environment. The terrain also includes light hills, providing scenic views throughout the preserve.
There are over 110 hiking trails in Boswachterij Dorst, catering to various preferences. This includes a significant number of easy routes, making it accessible for many visitors.
Yes, Boswachterij Dorst is very suitable for families and those looking for easier walks. Out of the over 110 available routes, 98 are classified as easy. An excellent option is the Rijen Clay Pit Pond – Bosbad Surae Lake loop from Boswachterij Dorst, an easy 6.0 km path that circles the Rijen Clay Pit Pond and Bosbad Surae Lake.
Boswachterij Dorst is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with your canine companion. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas where Galloway cattle roam freely, such as around Surae, to ensure the safety of both your pet and the wildlife.
Yes, many of the hiking routes in Boswachterij Dorst are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the View of the Surae Fens – The Leemputten Surae loop from Bos & Co is a moderate 10.8 km loop exploring the Surae fens, and the View of the Surae Fens – Surea Area loop from Bos & Co is an easy 7.8 km option.
One unique aspect of Boswachterij Dorst is the presence of freely roaming Galloway cattle in the area around Surae. Visitors might encounter these gentle animals during their walks. The reserve is also known to be home to long-eared owls.
Several restaurants located at the edges of the forest, such as BEUM, Natuurpoortcafé BOS & Co, and De Vijf Eiken, offer convenient parking facilities. Natuurpoortcafé BOS & Co is specifically noted as a 'nature gate' location, making it a good starting point for exploring the area.
Absolutely. The area is known for its distinctive clay pits and sand drifts. You can explore various lakes, such as The Leemputten Surae and Rijen Clay Pit Pond. Additionally, you might discover the unique Follies in Dorst Forest or the peaceful Peace Chapel Dorst.
The routes in Boswachterij Dorst are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 450 reviews. More than 2,200 hikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes and well-maintained trails.
Yes, there are several restaurants conveniently located at the edges of the forest. These include BEUM, Natuurpoortcafé BOS & Co, and De Vijf Eiken, offering options for refreshments after your hike. BOS&CO is a popular spot and a nature gate.
Hikes in Boswachterij Dorst vary in length and duration. Easy routes like the View of the Surae Fens – The Leemputten Surae loop from Boswachterij Dorst (4.2 km) can be completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes. Longer, moderate trails, such as the View of the Surae Fens – The Leemputten Surae loop from Bos & Co (10.8 km), typically take around 2 hours 45 minutes.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.