4.5
(52745)
195,577
hikers
72
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Burgholz are characterized by a diverse landscape, including the extensive Arboretum Burgholz, the surrounding Burgholz State Forest, and the Wupper River. The region features dense woodlands, forested hills, and river valleys, offering varied terrain for outdoor activities. Many routes incorporate the historical Samba-Trasse, a former railway line, adding a unique element to the natural surroundings. The area provides a network of well-maintained trails suitable for families.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.6
(273)
899
hikers
9.39km
02:45
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(216)
683
hikers
9.58km
02:43
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(149)
510
hikers
12.6km
03:34
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(65)
259
hikers
7.16km
01:58
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(71)
208
hikers
7.78km
02:12
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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In days like these (as of August 2025), reading the memorial stone commemorating the murder of forced laborers shortly before the end of World War II makes you wonder if humanity will ever learn from this. Unfortunately, people who think we don't need democracy will never read these lines, and if they did, they wouldn't care. But everyone else should read them and ask themselves whether we want to see such times again.
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Beautiful scenery, always worth the effort! But the climbs and descents are quite steep.
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The WPZ has marked four hiking trails and provided signage for the surrounding trees. Here's a PDF file: https://t1p.de/burgholz-wege . However, I prefer hiking with an app. Where can I find these four trails as GPX files?
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The 100 non-native tree species are, of course, not "natural," but the clever and forward-looking creation of humans. The founder, Heinrich Hogrebe, had put in a lot of hard work. The successful growth of the introduced species has since proven that they are suitable replacements for threatened native species. As the accompanying research also discovered, native plants and animals are not disadvantaged in the process; on the contrary, they are enriched with new niches. In contrast, in the natural forest cells of Steinsieperhöh and Meersiepenkopf, where no human intervention takes place, one can see that beeches are displacing oaks. Unfortunately, it is precisely the beeches that die much faster in times of drought. Nature simply doesn't have foresight. If current living conditions dictate it, it would even create deserts... Insight: If we want to continue to have green forests in the future, human foresight, even if limited, can actively contribute to this. And we're probably also helped by some reviled neophytes like the hemp palm and the bluebell tree, which are trying to come here uninvited right now. Unless they're banned like in Switzerland. Source: no copy, no AI. Authored by myself.
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When forced laborers managed to escape from their camps, for example after air raids, they were left stranded without shelter or food. They could only survive with support from the population or through raids. If they were tracked down, they were usually murdered indiscriminately. Here and in many other places. The only hope in the trap was the advance of the American troops. Thousands did not live to see that.
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But it is very dark.
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Burgholz offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with over 70 routes available. Most of these, around 56, are rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children.
The trails in Burgholz offer diverse terrain, ranging from wide tarmac paths within the Arboretum to forested hills and river valleys. Many routes incorporate the historic Samba-Trasse, a former railway line, which provides relatively flat and easy walking sections. You'll find a mix of cultivated arboretum landscapes and dense woodlands.
Yes, many family-friendly routes in Burgholz are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Samba-Trasse – Burgholz Station loop from Elberfeld-West is an easy circular hike that's great for families.
Burgholz is rich in natural beauty and interesting spots. You can explore the extensive Arboretum Burgholz with its over 100 different tree species, including the impressive Giant Sequoias in Burgholz State Forest. The Zimmerplatz at the Burgholz Arboretum is another point of interest. You might also encounter reminders of the historical charcoal burners' guild along the Samba-Trasse.
Burgholz is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for family hikes. In spring, the arboretum bursts with new growth, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is also great, with the dense forest providing shade. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Absolutely! The Arboretum is a highlight for families. The Burgholz Arboretum – Samba-Trasse loop from Cronenberg is a moderate route that allows you to explore its biodiversity, featuring wide paths suitable for many. For an easier option, many paths within the arboretum itself are very accessible.
Yes, Burgholz is generally dog-friendly. Many trails are suitable for walking with your canine companion, provided they are kept on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or other hikers. Always remember to clean up after your dog.
There are various parking options available around the Burgholz area, particularly near common starting points for trails in Elberfeld-West and Cronenberg. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot.
Yes, Burgholz is accessible by public transport, particularly from Wuppertal. You can find bus stops near various entry points to the forest and arboretum, making it convenient to start your family hike without a car.
The Burgholz area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse natural features, the well-maintained trails, and the unique experience of the Arboretum. The combination of dense woodlands, river valleys, and historical elements like the Samba-Trasse makes it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
While Burgholz itself is primarily a natural area, you'll find cafes and restaurants in the nearby districts of Wuppertal, such as Cronenberg and Elberfeld-West. These are convenient for a meal or a snack before or after your family hike.


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