Circular hiking trail Heimburg (Harz)

Short description

Diverse tour with deep insights into forest life &: geological history as well as magnificent views of the Harz foreland

Description

The beautiful circular route offers many information and experience opportunities on both sides of the path, so that an hour of walking time is hardly enough to cover this particularly attractive landscape route. Highlights such as the forest adventure trail Bärenstein, the Geological Trail, the impressive rock formations at Hans Mönch as well as the shady Devils Creek Valley and the nature reserve Ziegenberg with its beautiful views alternate.

Tip: An outstanding destination and stamping point of the Harzer Wandernadel is undoubtedly the Altenburg viewpoint pavilion. This stamp is reached on a short path from the parking lot at the entrance to Heimburg or from the bus stop before starting the circular hike at Bärenstein.

Route description

Starting point is the small parking lot at the playground Bärenstein, where a skillfully carved wooden sign already points the way to the forest adventure trail. The forest nature trail surprises with lovingly crafted wooden figures, interactive activities, and vivid information about the forest, which is not only interesting for children. Shortly after the small, colorful high seat, the path forks. Our circular path leads slightly to the left downhill and crosses the road between Heimburg and Oesig. Here the hiker can enjoy a clear view over the farmland to the castle and fortress Regenstein. Following the edge of the forest to the right, you reach the Geological Trail at the end of the small descent at the confluence of Goldbach and Teufelsbach. Just before the bridge, turn right and walk below the sandstone rock Hans Mönch until you reach the road. Cross the road and continue straight ahead along the wide forest path through the Devils Creek Valley. Geological outcrops and explanatory panels provide insights into 400 million years of geological history. After about 700 m, you will see an old mine cart on the left side, reminding of the mining tradition in this area. At this point, a detour to the nearby Michaelstein Monastery with gastronomy would be possible (left over the bridge and following the Ammonite marking). At this point, the Heimburg circular tour continues straight ahead to Trecktalstraße between Heimburg and Elbingerode. After crossing it, the tour continues along the meadow path to the right towards Ziegenberg. The ascent to the small hilltop rewards you with a beautiful view of Heimburg and Regenstein. You leave the nature reserve on the wide, sometimes slightly muddy path before crossing Elbingeröder Straße at the first residential buildings. You will reach the starting point of the hike by passing through the streets Oberdorf - Neue Str. - Brinkstraße - Trogasse from here. A natural stealth path at the end of Troggasse leads towards Bärenstein and back to the parking lot.

Parking information

Small free parking lot at the Bärenstein playground