4.6
(14282)
49,559
hikers
167
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Ilsenburg are situated at the northern edge of the Harz Mountains, within the Harz National Park. This region features a diverse ecological landscape with spruce and beech forests, rocky biotopes, and numerous running waters. The topography varies significantly, with elevations ranging from 240m to 1,141m at Brocken peak. The picturesque Ilse Valley, known for its unspoiled forests and rock formations, is a central feature for many routes.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.8
(708)
1,942
hikers
7.83km
02:19
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.4
(57)
197
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.7
(805)
2,930
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(1586)
5,743
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(511)
1,719
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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The Plessenburg is worth a trip, whether as a starting point for hikes, a stop for refreshments in between, or as the end of a great hike. With tasty dishes for lunch or delicious cakes for coffee, there is something for everyone here. Stamp point of the HWN.
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The bridge is currently closed due to construction work on the path east of the Ilse.
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A really beautiful forest area just before Ilsenburg.
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The Ilsestein is undoubtedly one of the extensive list of particularly impressive rock cliffs in the Harz. Its walkable part is about 130 meters long, with its upper area being a narrow, just a few meters wide rock ridge. The elongated granite formation runs from southeast to northwest. The Ilsestein is densely forested, but still has many vantage points with impressive views. The terrain drops almost vertically in some places. Many of the areas accessible to visitors are secured with railings, but not everywhere. The Ilsestein consists of the Ilsestein granite named after it, which geologically belongs to the granite area of the Brocken massif. The rock is particularly rich in quartz and has numerous large-volume fillings with various other minerals. For this reason, the Ilsestein granite is less suitable as a material, which is why there are no quarries in this area. Source: https://www.harzlife.de/extra/ilsestein.html
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In the years 1775-1776, Count Heinrich Ernst of Stolberg-Wernigerode had a stately hunting lodge built on the Königskoll in the Huysburger Häu south of Ilsenburg. He named it Plessenburg after his son-in-law, Prince Friedrich Erdmann of Anhalt-Köthen-Pleß. A little way away from the hunting lodge, a forester's lodge was built in the 19th century, which soon became a popular restaurant for day trippers. Immediately next to the hunting lodge, however, a half-timbered building for the kitchen staff was built in 1880, which was used by the catering business after the expropriation of the Princes of Stolberg-Wernigerode after the Second World War and which was later structurally connected to the old hunting lodge to form a building complex that is now used as a popular restaurant for day trippers. Numerous hiking trails lead to Plessenburg from the surrounding areas of Ilsenburg, Drübeck, Darlingerode, Wernigerode and Bad Harzburg. It is a popular stopover on the way to or from the highest peak in the Harz, the Brocken. Not far from the Plessenburg are the Wolfsklippen with a viewing platform, the Ilse Falls in the Ilsetal and the Ilsestein. Furthermore, the Plessenburg can be reached on certain days from the beginning of May to the end of October by a bus line from Wernigerode via Ilsenburg. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plessenburg
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On one side green hills and on the other side a beautiful view towards Ilsenburg
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There are nearly 170 hiking routes around Ilsenburg that are easily accessible from local bus stations. These routes cater to various fitness levels, including 76 easy, 72 moderate, and 17 difficult trails.
Ilsenburg, situated within the Harz National Park, offers a rich variety of natural features. Many trails follow the wild and romantic Ilse River, leading past impressive cascades like the Lower Ilse Falls and Upper Ilse Falls. You'll also encounter unique granite rock formations such as the Ilsestein and Paternosterklippe, offering panoramic views of the Harz landscape.
Yes, the Ilse Valley offers several easier routes suitable for families. These trails often feature gentle gradients and scenic river views. While specific family-friendly routes are not listed here, you can find many easy trails among the 76 available, perfect for a leisurely outing with children.
The Harz National Park generally welcomes dogs, but they must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife. Many trails are suitable for dogs, especially those through the forests and along the Ilse River. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions on certain paths.
Yes, many routes are designed as circular walks, allowing you to start and end at the same bus stop. An example is the Heinrich Heine Trail (Ilse Valley) – Paternoster Cliff loop from Prinzess-Ilse-Quelle, a moderate 7.5 km hike that takes you through beautiful scenery and past notable rock formations.
Ilsenburg offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Summer is ideal for longer hikes, and winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, though some trails might require appropriate gear. The Ilse Valley is particularly beautiful in all seasons.
Absolutely. The renowned Heinrich Heine Trail, considered the most scenic route to the Brocken, is accessible from Ilsenburg. A challenging option is the Heinrich Heine Trail (Ilse Valley) – Brocken Summit loop from Prinzess-Ilse-Quelle, a difficult 20 km route that rewards hikers with spectacular panoramic views from the highest peak in the Harz.
The hiking trails around Ilsenburg are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 14,500 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning natural beauty of the Ilse Valley, and the diverse range of routes available for all skill levels.
Yes, beyond the natural beauty, you can discover historical sites. The region has a rich history, including the 1000-year-old Ilsenburg Abbey. While not directly on every bus-accessible trail, the wider network connects to places like Drübeck Monastery, allowing you to combine hiking with cultural exploration. The
For those seeking a longer challenge, the Heinrich Heine Trail (Ilse Valley) – Lower Ilse Falls loop from Ilsenburg (Harz) is a difficult 24 km route. This extensive hike allows for a deep immersion into the Harz National Park's wilderness, starting and ending conveniently near a bus stop.
While popular routes like the Heinrich Heine Trail can see more visitors, the extensive network of nearly 170 trails means you can often find quieter paths. Exploring routes slightly off the main Brocken ascent, such as the Sand valley tour through Darlingröder Switzerland, can offer a more tranquil experience, especially during off-peak hours or seasons.


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