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Nature Reserves in North Rhine-Westphalia
Nature Reserves in Cologne District
Nature Reserves in Bergisches Land

Nature Reserves in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis

Nature Reserves in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis

Nature Reserve Guide

Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis is home to 5 nature reserves, part of a wider network of 71 protected areas within the district. These reserves are characterized by a varied landscape that includes expansive forests, river valleys with steep wooded slopes, and wet meadows. The terrain is defined by prominent features such as the Great Dhünn Reservoir, the Eifgenbach and Wupper river valleys, and large forested areas like Königsforst. The extensive network of trails is suitable for a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and running.

Nature Reserves in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis

This list of nature reserves in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis features more than 700 routes for hiking, cycling, and running. More than 62,000 visitors have shared their experiences, giving these areas an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. The protected valleys of Eifgenbachtal Und Seitentäler offer over 50 designated hiking trails through their wooded slopes. In the adjacent Dhünntal Und Linnefetal Mit Seitentälern, there are more than 20 mountain biking routes that explore the river and forest landscapes. The Gierather Wald provides a mix of picturesque forests and wetlands with over 30 touring bicycle routes. The protected status of these areas ensures the preservation of their natural habitats, offering routes that pass through ecologically significant and well-maintained environments.

804

Routes

4.5

(13538)

Average rating

64K+

Explored with komoot

Last updated: April 23, 2026

4.5

(5164)

21,925

hikers

#1.

Eifgenbachtal Und Seitentäler

Eifgenbachtal Und Seitentäler is a nature reserve in Bergisches Land, offering diverse terrain with wooded slopes and grasslands for hiking, cycling, and jogging routes.

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4.5

(3106)

13,801

hikers

#2.

Dhünntal Und Linnefetal Mit Seitentälern

Dhünntal Und Linnefetal Mit Seitentälern is a nature reserve offering diverse terrain for hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling routes along its rivers and forests.

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Cycling

4.5

(2472)

13,328

hikers

#3.

Hardt

Hardt is a German nature reserve with diverse landscapes, offering extensive routes for hiking, cycling, jogging, and mountain biking through forests, gorges, and valleys.

Hiking

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Cycling

4.5

(2255)

13,084

hikers

#4.

Gierather Wald

Gierather Wald is a nature reserve with picturesque forests, streams, and wetlands, offering diverse routes for hiking, cycling, and running. Its varied terrain caters to all skill levels.

Hiking

Running

Mountaineering

Mountain biking

Gravel riding

Road cycling

Cycling

4.6

(541)

2,323

hikers

#5.

Naafbachtal

Naafbachtal is a nature reserve featuring a meandering stream, diverse forests, and wet meadows, offering numerous routes for hiking, gravel biking, and road cycling.

Hiking

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Mountain biking

Gravel riding

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Most popular routes in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis

Hiking in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main nature reserves in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis featured on this page?

This page aggregates routes from five key nature reserves in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis. These include Eifgenbachtal Und Seitentäler, Dhünntal Und Linnefetal Mit Seitentälern, and Naafbachtal. The other featured reserves are Gierather Wald and Hardt. These areas protect varied landscapes of forests, river valleys, and wet meadows.

How many nature reserves are in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis?

The district of Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis contains 71 designated nature reserves. This page focuses on five of these protected areas, offering more than 700 routes for outdoor activities across them. These reserves are ecologically significant and provide extensive trail networks.

What activities are available in the nature reserves of Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis?

The primary activities are hiking, cycling, and mountain biking, with over 780 routes available across the featured reserves. There are also numerous trails suitable for running. Specific guides are available for different activities, including family-friendly hikes and traffic-free cycling routes.

What kind of hiking trails are in the Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis nature reserves?

There are more than 250 designated hiking trails across the five featured nature reserves. The trails explore diverse landscapes, from the wooded slopes of Hardt to the river valleys of the Naafbachtal. Routes are available for various difficulty levels, including easy circular walks and more challenging paths.

Are there mountain biking routes in these nature reserves?

Yes, mountain biking is a popular activity with numerous designated routes. The Dhünntal Und Linnefetal Mit Seitentälern reserve offers over 30 mountain bike trails through its river and forest landscapes. The Gierather Wald also provides more than 40 routes suitable for both standard and easy mountain biking.

What are the features of the Eifgenbachtal and Dhünntal reserves?

The nature reserves of Eifgenbachtal Und Seitentäler and Dhünntal Und Linnefetal Mit Seitentälern are known for their scenic river valleys. The Eifgenbach valley features narrow sections and alluvial forests, while the Dhünn valley is characterized by alder and ash floodplain forests. Both offer extensive trail networks for hiking and cycling.

Are there family-friendly trails in the nature reserves?

Yes, there are routes suitable for families within the nature reserves. The varied terrain includes many trails with gentle gradients that are appropriate for children. A dedicated guide to family-friendly hikes in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis can provide specific route suggestions.

Can I bring my dog to the nature reserves in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis?

Many trails within the nature reserves are suitable for hiking with a dog. However, as these are protected areas, it is important to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and habitats. Specific rules may vary by reserve, so checking local regulations is advised.

What is the best time of year to visit these nature reserves?

The nature reserves in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis can be visited year-round for outdoor activities. Spring brings blooming flora, while summer offers full, green forests. Autumn is known for its colorful foliage, and winter provides opportunities for crisp hikes, sometimes with snow.

What are the rules for visiting nature reserves in North Rhine-Westphalia?

Visitors to nature reserves are required to follow specific regulations to protect the environment. This includes staying on marked paths, not leaving waste, and not disturbing plants or animals. In some areas, such as former military sites like Wahner Heide, staying on trails is also a matter of safety.

Are the trails in the nature reserves accessible by public transport?

Many trailheads in Rheinisch-Bergischer Kreis are accessible via public transportation. A specific guide for hikes starting from bus stations is available for the region. This allows for planning routes without relying on a car.

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