4.6
(22757)
86,953
hikers
476
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Winterberg provide access to the diverse landscapes of Germany's Hochsauerland region. The area is characterized by dense forests, rolling valleys, and numerous mountains, including the Kahler Asten, the highest peak in North Rhine-Westphalia. Hikers can explore a network of trails that wind through the Rothaar Mountains, offering varied terrain from gentle paths to challenging ascents. This region's natural features include extensive woodlands and picturesque valleys, making it suitable for a range of outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.7
(193)
595
hikers
8.64km
02:41
280m
280m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.6
(466)
1,669
hikers
11.9km
03:20
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.7
(398)
1,302
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(236)
877
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(225)
747
hikers
22.6km
06:39
610m
610m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. 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
Popular around Winterberg
Multi-day hikes in the Sauerland – eight trails, many unforgettable moments
Sauerland-Höhenflug – your trekking adventure
One Way Wanderlust: hiking in the Sauerland by public transport
Hochsauerland ridge trail – Züschen to Winkhausen
Sustainable hikes – accessible by public transport and hiking bus
Rothaarsteig trail – long-distance hiking in the heart of Germany
Feels like flying – hiking on the Sauerland–Höhenflug
Hiking in Gemany’s Sauerland – the most beautiful multi–day Tours
Hike the roof of the Sauerland – Winterberger Hochtour Trail
Forest, meadows, wonderland – hiking the Rothaarsteig Trails
Elkeringhausen, an idyllic village in the Hochsauerland, was first mentioned in documents in 1515. Originally a small farming settlement, today historical mills, mining, and Catholic educational history shape the village's appearance. The most important milestones in the village's chronicle: + 1515: First documented mention of the village in the Orketal valley. + 1812: Incorporation into the newly founded Amt Niedersfeld, which also included surrounding villages such as Hildfeld and Silbach. + 1905: Founding of the local shooting club. + 1929: Construction of the "College of Religious Studies" by Bonn student chaplain Heinrich Lutz. It developed into a theological center. + 1964: Transformation of the former college into the Catholic educational institution St. Bonifatius. + January 1, 1975: Incorporation into the town of Winterberg as part of the municipal reorganization. Today, Elkeringhausen is known for its nature, the famous tent church, the church consecrated to St. Mary Magdalene built in 1863, and as a recreational area in the Sauerland.
0
0
There are many beautiful paths here.
0
0
Well, it's certainly worth a look, but for our taste it's too geared towards tourists.
0
0
Honestly, this area isn't exactly amazing, so the little tower really stands out.
0
0
Beautiful destination, and up there are many lovely paths through the heath or to the source of the Lenne river, etc.
0
0
The St. Georg ski jump is a ski jump, also used as a mat ski jump, in the Winterberg ski lift carousel; it is located near the summit on the southwest slope of the Herrloh.
0
0
There are nearly 500 hiking trails around Winterberg that are easily accessible from bus stations, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. This includes over 220 easy routes, 217 moderate routes, and 41 challenging trails.
Winterberg's bus-accessible hikes traverse diverse landscapes within the Rothaar Mountains. You'll find dense forests, rolling valleys, and picturesque streams. Many routes offer panoramic views from peaks like the Kahler Asten, the highest mountain in North Rhine-Westphalia, and explore areas like the Hochheide Nature Reserve Neuer Hagen with its unique heathlands.
Yes, Winterberg offers several family-friendly routes accessible by bus. The region is known for special hiking routes like the Rothaarsteig adventure trail and "Der fabelhafte Elfensteig" in Winterberg-Züschen, designed to engage younger adventurers. Look for trails with gentle inclines and interesting features to keep children entertained.
Many of the trails around Winterberg are designed as circular routes, making them ideal for starting and ending at a bus station. For example, the View of Winterberg – Winterberg Market Square loop is a moderate 12 km circular hike that offers great views and brings you back to your starting point.
Along the bus-accessible trails, you can discover several interesting landmarks and viewpoints. The Kahler Asten summit provides breathtaking panoramic views. You might also encounter the unique Gorge and Bridge Trail on the Helle, featuring the Helletal Bridge, or the Ziegenhelle Tower for another excellent vantage point.
While Winterberg is beautiful year-round, spring and autumn are particularly recommended for hiking. Spring brings colorful flower meadows, while autumn showcases vibrant golden leaves. Winter also offers unique snow-covered landscapes for winter hiking on groomed trails, but always check local conditions.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, there are 41 difficult routes accessible by bus. An example is the Summit tour Elkeringhausen - Sauerland, an 8.6 km route with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the View of the St. Georg Ski Jump – Helletal Bridge loop, a 22.5 km difficult hike.
Yes, many hiking routes in Winterberg pass through or near villages where you can find restaurants, cafes, or terraces for refreshments. Additionally, you might encounter huts like the Swedish Hut or the Höhleyer Hut, offering places to rest and refuel.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 21,500 ratings. Reviewers often praise the well-marked and diverse trail system, the stunning panoramic views from peaks like the Kahler Asten, and the serene experience of hiking through the extensive forests and valleys.
Absolutely. Many moderate trails provide excellent views. The View from Kahler Asten – Heathland at the Kahler Asten loop is a popular 10 km moderate hike that offers stunning vistas from the highest point in the Sauerland. Another option is the View of St. Georg Ski Jump – St. Georg Ski Jump, Winterberg loop, which provides scenic perspectives.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.