The best walks and hikes around Ternscher Lake
4.6
(6530)
26,021
hikers
13
hikes
Hiking around Ternscher Lake offers accessible trails through a landscape characterized by an artificial lake, surrounded by forests and fields. The lake, formed during the expansion of the Dortmund-Ems Canal, spans approximately 600 meters in length and 380 meters in width. Paths include a mix of street, regular paths, and dedicated hiking paths, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. The area features generally flat topography with minimal elevation changes.
Best hiking trails around Ternscher Lake
- The most popular hiking route is Ternscher Lake – AquaClimb at Ternsche Lake loop from NSG Waldflaechen im Sandforter Forst, a 4.7 miles (7.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 54 minutes to complete. This easy route circles the lake, offering views of the water and surrounding woodlands.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is AquaClimb at Ternsche Lake – View of Lake Ternsch loop from NSG Waldflaechen im Sandforter Forst, a moderate 6.0 miles (9.7 km) path. This trail provides extended lakeside walking with additional scenic viewpoints.
- Local hikers also love the Sandfort Castle – Playground in Auenpark loop from NSG Waldflaechen im Sandforter Forst, a 8.2 miles (13.2 km) trail leading through a mix of natural paths and local infrastructure, often completed in about 3 hours 20 minutes.
- Hiking around Ternscher Lake is defined by lakeside paths, surrounding forests, and open fields. The network offers options for different ability levels, with 7 easy and 4 moderate routes available.
- The routes in Ternscher Lake are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,400 reviews. More than 12,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Ternscher Lake's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
4.3
(20)
77
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(45)
143
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(10)
37
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.9
(7)
31
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
62
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
You often drive very close to the Stever and have a direct view. Now and then there are places to linger.
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I've never seen a pond there before. Was it perhaps a puddle?
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When I was here in August, the underpass was closed. A detour was signposted. But I have no information on how long the closure will last...
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In 2002, the city of Olfen launched the Stever River grazing concept with a clear goal in mind: to create a landscape shaped and managed solely by the life cycle and feeding habits of semi-wild animals. To achieve this, the agricultural land was abandoned, the banks of the Stever River were removed, and a long fence was erected. Konik horses and Heck cattle found their home in the Stever River. Poitou donkeys were later added. These very animals were allowed to transform the Stever River landscape into a near-natural floodplain, paving the way for nature to flourish completely independently. Kingfishers, storks, and other animal species have thus found their way to Olfen over the past 20 years.
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Very suitable for a short rest break.
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The bridge itself is probably not a highlight, but the views are great! Good chances of seeing herons, storks and geese
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Even in winter it is easy to walk and extremely quiet. The forest on the left and right was partly under water, the trees formed small islands (see my photos) I thought it was really beautiful
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Tree, bench, signpost, horse paddock... What are these highlights?
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Ternscher Lake?
There are 11 hiking routes available around Ternscher Lake, offering a variety of options for different preferences and skill levels. These include 7 easy and 4 moderate trails.
What is the general difficulty level of hikes around Ternscher Lake?
The hiking trails around Ternscher Lake are generally easy to moderate. The landscape features mostly flat topography with minimal elevation changes, making them accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. There are 7 easy and 4 moderate routes to choose from.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Ternscher Lake?
Yes, many of the trails around Ternscher Lake are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the AquaClimb at Ternsche Lake – Ternscher Lake loop from NSG Waldflaechen im Sandforter Forst is an easy 7.3 km loop that takes you around the lake, offering scenic views.
Are the hiking trails around Ternscher Lake suitable for families with children?
Yes, the trails around Ternscher Lake are generally suitable for families. The paths are easy and accessible, with a mix of street, regular paths, and dedicated hiking paths. The area's flat topography and the presence of attractions like the AquaClimb make it a pleasant destination for families.
Can I bring my dog on the trails around Ternscher Lake?
Many paths around Ternscher Lake are suitable for dogs, featuring natural sections and open areas. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature protection areas or when passing through populated sections, to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
What kind of natural features and attractions can I expect to see while hiking?
While hiking around Ternscher Lake, you'll experience a diverse landscape of forests, fields, and the lake itself. Notable attractions include the Ternscher Lake, the AquaClimb at Ternsche Lake, and various bathing spots along the north and south banks. You can also explore the North Shore of Ternscher Lake and discover a Hidden Swimming Cove at Ternscher See.
Is there parking available for hikers at Ternscher Lake?
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the starting points of the hiking routes around Ternscher Lake, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
How can I reach Ternscher Lake using public transport?
The starting points of hiking routes around Ternscher Lake are accessible by public transport, making it an easily reachable outdoor destination even without a car.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Ternscher Lake?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessible lakeside paths, the scenic views of the water and surrounding woodlands, and the overall peaceful atmosphere. Many appreciate the well-maintained trails suitable for various activities.
Are there longer hiking options for more experienced hikers?
Yes, for those looking for a longer hike, the Sandfort Castle – Playground in Auenpark loop from NSG Waldflaechen im Sandforter Forst is a moderate 13.2 km trail that leads through a mix of natural paths and local infrastructure, typically completed in about 3 hours 20 minutes.
Can I swim in Ternscher Lake?
Yes, Ternscher Lake boasts excellent water quality, meeting high criteria, which makes it suitable for swimming. There are numerous bathing spots on both the north and south banks, with the south shore also featuring a beach and a campsite.
What is the best time of year to hike around Ternscher Lake?
Ternscher Lake offers pleasant hiking experiences throughout the year. The lakeside paths and surrounding forests provide beautiful scenery in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant colors in autumn, and tranquil views in winter. The generally easy terrain makes it enjoyable in most conditions.
Most popular routes around Ternscher Lake
Most popular attractions around Ternscher Lake
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