4.6
(80466)
289,014
hikers
944
hikes
Hiking around Eckertalsperre offers a diverse landscape centered on the Ecker Reservoir within the Harz region. The area is characterized by dense woodlands, the expansive reservoir itself, and surrounding hills, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. Trails often follow the reservoir's shores and ascend into the forested uplands, offering views across the water and into the Harz National Park.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
4.8
(63)
177
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(1076)
3,470
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(348)
1,167
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(139)
607
hikers
6.16km
01:48
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(107)
393
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Beautiful view of the reservoir
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a beautiful hiking trail, conditionally suitable for cycling
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The journey is the destination - not always easy terrain, but very beautiful in dry weather
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A very beautiful trail, highly recommended.
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It's especially beautiful there in autumn, with so many colours and textures!
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The reservoir was a border during the GDR/FRG era and was divided. See https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eckertalsperre The dam was built in 1943 to meet the region's growing demand for drinking water. This demand increased in the 1930s due to the planned construction of the Volkswagen factory, along with the "City of the KdF-Wagen near Fallersleben" (since 1945: Wolfsburg), and the growing population of Braunschweig. The dam was built in the midst of World War II. Several hundred foreign workers and prisoners of war were also employed for the construction at the time.
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There are over 950 hiking routes around Eckertalsperre, catering to various skill levels. This includes nearly 400 easy trails, over 430 moderate paths, and about 130 more challenging options.
Yes, there are many easy trails suitable for families. A great option is the Ecker Reservoir – View of the Eckertalsperre (Ecker Reservoir) loop from Eckertalsperre. This 4.0-mile (6.4 km) route is generally easy and offers continuous views of the reservoir, taking about 1 hour 45 minutes to complete.
Many trails around Eckertalsperre are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially within the Harz National Park area to protect wildlife. Be mindful of other hikers and any specific signage regarding pets.
Yes, many routes are designed as circular walks. For a comprehensive loop, consider the Panoramic walk around the Eckertalsperre dam - hiking along the Green Belt, which is a moderate 9.2-mile (14.8 km) trail that takes about 4 hours 10 minutes.
The trails offer diverse scenery, including expansive views of the Ecker Reservoir, dense Harz forests, and historical points. Notable landmarks include the impressive Dam wall of the Eckertalsperre (HWN 001) and the Inner German border marker on the Eckertal Reservoir dam, which highlights the region's history. You can also find several viewpoints, such as the View of the Eckertalsperre (Ecker Reservoir).
There are designated parking areas near the Eckertalsperre dam and along access roads to the reservoir. Specific parking information is often provided in the tour descriptions on komoot, or you can look for signs upon arrival.
Hike durations vary significantly based on length and difficulty. Shorter, easy loops like the Ecker Reservoir – View of the Eckertalsperre (Ecker Reservoir) loop can take under 2 hours, while longer, moderate trails such as the East Shore of the Ecker Dam loop might take around 3 hours.
Eckertalsperre can be beautiful for winter hiking, with snow-covered forests and frozen reservoir views. However, conditions can be challenging, with icy paths and colder temperatures. It's essential to wear appropriate winter gear, including sturdy, waterproof boots and warm clothing, and to check weather conditions before heading out.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 66,000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the continuous reservoir views, the tranquility of the dense Harz forests, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various fitness levels.
While the immediate area around the reservoir is largely natural, you can find cafes and restaurants in nearby towns and villages within the Harz region. It's advisable to check opening times, especially during off-peak seasons, and to carry sufficient water and snacks for your hike.
Access to Eckertalsperre via public transport can be limited. While some bus routes serve nearby towns in the Harz region, direct connections to the dam or specific trailheads might require planning. It's best to check local bus schedules and connections from major hubs like Bad Harzburg or Goslar.
Yes, several trails lead to excellent viewpoints. The View of the Eckertalsperre (Ecker Reservoir) is a popular highlight, offering expansive vistas of the water and surrounding landscape. Many routes along the dam wall and eastern shore also provide scenic outlooks.


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