The best walks and hikes around Clausthal-Zellerfeld
4.6
(28766)
102,192
hikers
825
hikes
Hiking around Clausthal-Zellerfeld offers access to the Harz Mountains in Lower Saxony, Germany. The region features a low mountain range landscape with dense forests, flowering meadows, and numerous ponds and streams. A defining characteristic is the historic Oberharzer Wasserregal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which integrates over 60 ponds and ditches into the natural environment. The area provides varied terrain, including natural paths and gravel forest roads, suitable for diverse hiking experiences.
Best hiking trails around Clausthal-Zellerfeld
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.8
(4075)
15,236
hikers
17.5km
04:55
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(722)
2,803
hikers
6.07km
01:38
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(1029)
3,409
hikers
11.4km
03:06
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(496)
1,555
hikers
17.0km
04:44
330m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(444)
1,505
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Clausthal-Zellerfeld
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Tips from the Community
We visited on a sunny and snowy winter day in January. Even (or perhaps especially) with everything covered in a thick blanket of snow, it was an absolutely beautiful scene. The Oderteich pond was easily accessible via the large parking lot located across the road. The paths around the Oderteich were quite narrow on this winter day, which made things a bit tight at times with two dogs, especially when encountering oncoming traffic. But somehow, we always managed to make it work. :) Oh, and the name "Oderteich" shouldn't be taken too literally; the path around it is almost 5 km long. :)
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You have to plan for 1.5 hours
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The church was built in ten months from 1907 to 1908. Its model was the much older stave churches of Norway. Prof. Karl Mohrmann, consistorial master builder of the Hanoverian regional church, drew inspiration from Nordic churches, but adapted the size and design to the needs of the congregation. Thus, the Hahnenklee Stave Church, with its 240 seats, is larger than its Norwegian counterparts, and the relatively large windows allow plenty of light into the interior. The local craftsmen used spruce wood from the surrounding area as building material, which also made construction more cost-effective than the originally planned neo-Gothic brick structure. Many elements of the architectural style are reminiscent of shipbuilding, even somewhat of Viking ships with their numerous dragons on the roof and in the decorations. The chandelier is modeled after a ship's wheel.
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All critics of the national park should take a look at this piece of forest. A near-natural forest has developed here in 30 years without human intervention.
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A beautiful spot! The water—deep blue from a distance, purple to amber up close. There are two swimming areas. A must-do walk! Root paths, streams, moorland, and wooden walkways. A very varied route.
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A wonderful single trail through the moor, full of roots and rocks. Sturdy footwear and surefootedness are recommended.
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Very nice path always along the ditch
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Swimming: It is generally possible to swim in the Upper Spiegeltal Pond. However, the shoreline is almost entirely densely overgrown, making it difficult to even reach the water in many places. Anyone wishing to swim here does so at their own risk, and the risks associated with the remote location should also be considered. Fishing: With the appropriate permit, fishing is permitted in the Upper Spiegeltal Pond. The water is primarily populated by brown trout. The pond is included in the "Upper Harz Ponds Fishing Map." If interested, please contact Harzwasserwerke, the owner and operator of this historic facility.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Clausthal-Zellerfeld?
The region offers an extensive network of over 800 hiking trails. These range from easy strolls to more challenging routes, ensuring options for all fitness levels. Specifically, you'll find over 440 easy routes, around 330 moderate trails, and nearly 60 difficult paths.
Are there any family-friendly hiking trails in Clausthal-Zellerfeld?
Yes, Clausthal-Zellerfeld is great for families. The Around the Großes Torfhausmoor route is an easy 6.1 km path that explores a unique moorland landscape. The Oker Valley Nature Experience Trail is also highlighted as particularly family-friendly, offering an interactive way for children to learn about local flora and fauna.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the area?
Absolutely. Many trails in Clausthal-Zellerfeld are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the Eagle Cliff – Mausefalle Rock Formation loop from Okertalsperre, a moderate 14.8 km trail through the scenic Oker Valley.
What kind of natural attractions can I expect to see while hiking?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You'll encounter dense forests, flowering meadows, and numerous crystal-clear mountain waters. A defining feature is the historic Oberharzer Wasserregal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which includes over 60 ponds, ditches, and streams. You can also explore the unique moorland landscape, such as near the Großes Torfhausmoor.
Are there any waterfalls to visit near Clausthal-Zellerfeld?
Yes, the Harz region is known for its waterfalls. You can explore the Lower Ilse Falls and Upper Ilse Falls, where the 'roaring Ilse' plunges over a kilometer. Another notable cascade is the Romkerhall Waterfall.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Clausthal-Zellerfeld?
The hiking trails in Clausthal-Zellerfeld are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 26,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the well-marked paths, and the unique combination of natural landscapes with historical features like the Oberharzer Wasserregal.
Are there any trails that lead to scenic viewpoints or mountain peaks?
Yes, the area offers routes with rewarding views and access to peaks. For instance, the On the Goetheweg to Brocken trail leads towards the prominent Brocken peak. Other highlights include the Raven Crag and the View of Bad Harzburg from the Großer Burgberg, offering panoramic vistas.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Clausthal-Zellerfeld?
Clausthal-Zellerfeld is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery, flowering meadows, and pleasant temperatures for exploring. Autumn brings vibrant fall foliage, while winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, ideal for cross-country skiing and winter walks on marked trails.
Are there any trails that explore the historic Upper Harz Water Management System?
Yes, the Oberharzer Wasserregal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a central feature of the region. Numerous hiking routes follow this historic water management system, allowing you to discover old wheel pits, tunnel mouths, and ponds while learning about its history from information boards. The system's intricate network provides unique routes amidst its historical structures.
Are there any trails near reservoirs or large bodies of water?
The region is characterized by its many ponds and the historic water management system. You can hike around the Oderteich Reservoir, which is a notable natural monument. Another option is the Altenau Smelter Pond loop from Bergstadt Altenau, offering scenic views of water features.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the hiking trails?
The terrain around Clausthal-Zellerfeld is varied, reflecting the low mountain range landscape of the Harz. You'll find natural paths, well-maintained gravel forest roads, and in some areas, more challenging steep root paths. The diverse landscape includes dense forests, open meadows, and areas around the numerous ponds and streams.
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