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Germany
North Rhine-Westphalia
Ruhr Region
Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis

StadtForest Muttental

The best walks and hikes around StadtForest Muttental

4.5

(23976)

96,365

hikers

12

hikes

Hiking around StadtForest Muttental offers diverse landscapes characterized by wild romantic valleys, dense forests, and the tranquil Muttenbach stream. This region, located in the Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis near Witten, features varied terrains from wide meadows to narrower forest paths. It is also historically significant as the "cradle of coal mining in the Ruhr region," with numerous relics and information panels along its trails.

Best hiking trails around StadtForest Muttental

  • The most popular hiking route is Muttenbach Stream – Southern entrance to the…

Last updated: May 8, 2026

4.5

(23)

87

hikers

#1.

Muttenbach Stream – Southern entrance to the Muttental loop from Hardenstein

8.41km

02:21

160m

160m

Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

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Hard

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around StadtForest Muttental

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Tips from the Community

Anna Wanderful 🌲🥾🌳
November 1, 2025, View of Hardenstein Castle

Cool castle, and beautiful during a night hike.

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The Muttental Valley is simply a beautiful hiking area, and if you want to learn something new, this is the place to be. The first coal in the Ruhr region was probably discovered in the Muttental Valley near Witten. Numerous small mines once extracted coal from tunnels and the first shafts. Today, you can visit old relics on the Muttental Mining Trail and learn a lot about the mining era. The mining trail leads past almost 30 stations with information panels, monuments, and reconstructions, including the Hardenstein Castle ruins.

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Great to see on the ferry ride

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a nice view from here 😃

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Hardenstein Castle is a ruin on the middle Ruhr River, between the Herbede district and the city center of Witten in what is now the Ennepe-Ruhr district of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It is surrounded by the Hardenstein Nature Reserve of the same name and is located near the Muttental Valley. Until the completion of the Ruhr Valley Railway (now a museum railway) in the 19th century, the castle stood directly on the river. Typologically, the complex, long known as a castle, is a "Festes Haus" (fortified house)—that is, a manor house. It served primarily as the residence of its lordly owners and was therefore only partially defensive. See: https://www.burgfreunde-hardenstein.de/aktuelles.html

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Great view of the Ruhr

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https://www.ruhrgebiet-industriekultur.de/muttental This mining hiking trail was designed between 1972 and 1977

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https://www.ruhrgebiet-industriekultur.de/muttental This mining hiking trail was designed between 1972 and 1977

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available in StadtForest Muttental?

StadtForest Muttental offers a diverse network of over 10 hiking trails. These routes cater to various fitness levels, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging paths, all set within wild romantic valleys and dense forests.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in StadtForest Muttental?

The hiking experience in StadtForest Muttental is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 8,200 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the area's unique combination of natural beauty, including the tranquil Muttenbach stream and varied forest terrain, alongside its rich historical mining heritage.

Are there easy trails suitable for beginners or casual walks?

Yes, StadtForest Muttental has plenty of options for easy walks. Out of the 12 available routes, 10 are classified as easy. A great option for a relaxed experience is the Muttenbach Stream – Meilerplatz loop from Hardenstein, which is about 2.7 miles (4.4 km) long and leads through the scenic Muttenbach valley.

Are there any challenging hiking routes in the area?

For those seeking a more demanding hike, StadtForest Muttental offers at least one difficult route. Consider the Muttenbach Stream – Southern entrance to the Muttental loop from Hardenstein. This 5.2-mile (8.4 km) trail explores the historical Muttental area and presents a good challenge with its elevation changes.

What historical sites and landmarks can I explore along the trails?

StadtForest Muttental is rich in history, particularly its past as the 'cradle of coal mining in the Ruhr region.' Along the trails, you can discover numerous relics and information panels. Notable historical sites include the Muttentalbahn Mining Cart Memorial, the Margarethe Shaft, Muttental, the Miners’ Prayer House, Witten, and the Jupiter Mine Entrance (1783). The Muttenbach Trail itself is a highlight, guiding you through this historically significant landscape.

Are the hiking trails in StadtForest Muttental suitable for families with children?

Yes, many trails in StadtForest Muttental are well-suited for families. The varied terrain, from wide meadows to forest paths, and the historical mining attractions provide engaging points of interest for all ages. Easy routes like the Margarethe Shaft, Muttental – Muttenbach Stream loop from Hardenstein offer shorter distances and gentle slopes, perfect for younger hikers.

Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?

Generally, dogs are welcome on the hiking trails in StadtForest Muttental. The diverse landscapes, including forests and open areas, provide a great environment for walks with your canine companion. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas or near wildlife, and to respect local regulations.

Are there circular hiking routes available?

Yes, many of the trails in StadtForest Muttental are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Muttenbach Trail – Muttenbach Stream loop from Hardenstein is a popular moderate circular path that follows the stream through varied terrain.

When is the best time of year to hike in StadtForest Muttental?

StadtForest Muttental offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flora, while autumn transforms the forests into a vibrant display of colors. Summer provides pleasant conditions for longer hikes, and even in winter, the tranquil, snow-dusted landscapes can be beautiful. The wild romantic valleys and dense forests are appealing in any season.

Where can I park when visiting StadtForest Muttental for hiking?

While specific parking locations are not detailed in the guide, the area around StadtForest Muttental, particularly near Witten and the historical mining trail, typically offers designated parking areas for hikers. Look for signs indicating 'Wanderparkplatz' or parking near popular trailheads like those around Hardenstein or the Muttental Mining Trail.

Are there places to eat or drink near the hiking trails?

The region around StadtForest Muttental, being close to Witten, offers various options for refreshments. While specific cafes or pubs directly on the trails are not listed, you can usually find establishments in nearby towns or villages where you can enjoy a meal or a drink after your hike.

What natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see?

Hikers in StadtForest Muttental can expect to encounter wild romantic valleys, dense forests, and the tranquil Muttenbach stream, which is a central natural feature. The terrain varies from wide meadows to narrower forest paths, offering diverse natural beauty. While specific viewpoints are not highlighted, the varied landscape itself provides picturesque vistas, especially along the stream and from higher elevations.

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