Detmold District
Kreis LippeHorn-Bad MeinbergGroße Egge Sunken Lane
Detmold District
Kreis LippeHorn-Bad MeinbergGroße Egge Sunken Lane
Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site
Große Egge Sunken Lane
Hiking
4.7
(504)
Cycling
4.6
(117)
Mountain biking
4.6
(51)
The Große Egge Hollow Way is a remarkable historical site nestled within the southeastern Teutoburg Forest in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This ancient road section, carved deep into Cenomanian limestone, stands as a significant cultural monument and archaeological treasure. Situated at an elevation of 375 meters on the Große Egge pass, it lies near the municipality of Horn-Bad Meinberg, just 1.2 kilometers west-southwest of the famous Externsteine rock formation.
Visitors are consistently captivated by the unique opportunity to walk through a tangible piece of history. The deep incision into the bedrock, with walls reaching 5 to 6 meters high, offers a powerful glimpse into ancient transportation routes. Hikers particularly appreciate the visible track marks, or Gleisspuren, etched into the limestone floor, which provide direct evidence of countless wheeled vehicles that once traversed this vital connection over the Teutoburg Forest.
When planning a visit to the Große Egge Hollow Way, it's helpful to be prepared for varied terrain. The path itself is a deep cut into rock, and while generally accessible, some sections may require careful footing. One visitor noted a fallen tree that required a slight detour, suggesting that sturdy footwear is always a good idea. This historical site offers a pure nature experience, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both cultural enrichment and outdoor activity.
This ancient route is a key point of interest on the "Römer, Ritter, Riten-Wanderroute" (Romans, Knights, Rites hiking route) and is part of the Hermannshöhen network of hiking trails. It's an excellent destination for walking and experiencing the local history and natural beauty. The Große Egge Hollow Way provides a unique perspective on the ingenuity and perseverance of past civilizations, making it a rewarding stop for anyone exploring the region.
The most striking features of the Große Egge Hollow Way are its deep incision and the remarkably preserved track marks. These Gleisspuren, consistently 1.4 meters apart, vividly illustrate the passage of ancient carts and wagons. Excavations have unearthed around 150 metal artifacts, including horseshoe fragments and wagon parts, further bringing the site's history to life. Many consider this system of ravines and cart tracks to be one of the oldest engineering structures in North Rhine-Westphalia, offering a profound connection to the past.
Exploring the trails and routes around the Große Egge Hollow Way allows you to delve deeper into the rich history and natural landscapes of the Teutoburg Forest. Whether you're interested in a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, komoot offers a variety of options to help you plan your adventure. Discover the many paths that connect this significant landmark to other natural features and historical sites in the region.
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Naturpark Teutoburger Wald / Eggegebirge
Tips
July 17, 2016
Hiking
•
June 4, 2017
Hiking
•
August 7, 2020
Cycling
The Rhine-Weser watershed runs along the upper end of the sunken lane.
•
Sign up for a free komoot account to get 40 more insider tips and takes.
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Große Egge Sunken Lane
4.7
(601)
2,005
hikers
22.6km
06:39
650m
650m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(601)
2,005
hikers
22.6km
06:39
650m
650m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
971
hikers
13.9km
03:56
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 150 m
Downhill 10 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 26 June
36°C
23°C
6 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Große Egge Hollow Way suitable for families with young children?
While the Große Egge Hollow Way offers a fascinating historical experience, the terrain can be varied with deep cuts into the rock and potentially uneven surfaces. One visitor noted a fallen tree requiring a detour. It's generally suitable for families, but parents should be prepared for some sections that might require careful footing. For very young children, a carrier might be more practical than a stroller.
Are dogs allowed on the trails around the Große Egge Hollow Way?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around the Große Egge Hollow Way and in the Teutoburg Forest. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially given the historical significance of the site and the presence of other hikers. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the natural beauty of the area.
Where can I find parking near the Große Egge Hollow Way?
The Große Egge Hollow Way is located near the famous Externsteine rock formation. Visitors typically park at designated parking areas for the Externsteine, which are usually well-signposted. From there, it's a short walk to the hollow way. Parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season, so arriving earlier in the day is advisable.
What is the typical difficulty level of the trails at Große Egge Hollow Way?
The Große Egge Hollow Way itself is a deep cut into the rock, making it an intermediate trail. While not overly strenuous, the path can be uneven, and some sections may require careful footing. It's part of the Hermannshöhen network and the "Römer, Ritter, Riten-Wanderroute," which offer a range of difficulties. Overall, it's considered a moderate walk, suitable for most hikers with appropriate footwear.
Are there any specific viewpoints or natural features to look out for besides the hollow way itself?
Absolutely! The Große Egge Hollow Way is a viewpoint in itself, offering a unique perspective on ancient transportation. Its proximity to the Externsteine, a prominent natural rock formation and cultural monument, means you're in an area rich with natural beauty. The site is also where the Rhine-Weser watershed crosses, a significant geographical feature. The surrounding Teutoburg Forest provides numerous scenic spots and opportunities for nature observation.
Can I visit the Große Egge Hollow Way during winter, and what should I expect?
Visiting the Große Egge Hollow Way in winter is possible and can offer a unique, serene experience. However, hikers should be prepared for potentially icy or snowy conditions, especially within the deep, shaded cuts of the hollow way. Sturdy, waterproof footwear with good grip is essential. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit, as some paths might become more challenging or slippery.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options nearby?
Yes, given its proximity to the popular Externsteine, you'll find several amenities in the surrounding area. The municipality of Horn-Bad Meinberg and nearby villages offer various cafes, restaurants, and guesthouses. It's a well-established tourist region, so options for refreshments and overnight stays are readily available within a short driving distance.
What is the historical significance of the track marks (Gleisspuren) found in the hollow way?
The distinct track marks, or Gleisspuren, carved into the limestone floor are a powerful testament to the site's ancient past. Consistently measuring 1.4 meters apart, they indicate the passage of countless wheeled vehicles over an extended period. While often mistakenly associated with Roman roads, these furrows suggest the route was a vital trade and transport connection, possibly dating back to prehistoric times or the Middle Ages, making it one of the oldest engineering structures in North Rhine-Westphalia.
How long does it take to walk through the Große Egge Hollow Way?
The exposed section of the Große Egge Hollow Way, characterized by its deep cuts and cart tracks, extends over approximately 100 meters. Walking through this specific historical section itself takes only a few minutes. However, most visitors combine this with longer hikes through the surrounding Teutoburg Forest, often as part of routes like the "Römer, Ritter, Riten-Wanderroute" or the Hermannshöhen trails, which can range from a couple of hours to a full day.
Are there any specific permits or fees required to visit the Große Egge Hollow Way?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to visit the Große Egge Hollow Way itself. It is an open historical site accessible to the public. However, if you park at nearby designated parking areas, especially those serving the Externsteine, there may be a parking fee.
What other historical sites are located near the Große Egge Hollow Way?
The most prominent historical and natural monument nearby is the Externsteine, a unique sandstone rock formation with a rich history of human use, including medieval reliefs and cave dwellings. The Große Egge Hollow Way is also part of a larger network of ancient routes and historical landscapes within the Teutoburg Forest, offering many opportunities to explore the region's past.