4.5
(3135)
17,888
hikers
1,133
hikes
Hiking around Kiessee, a former gravel pit, offers accessible trails around a 15-hectare lake in Göttingen. The region is characterized by scenic lake views, expansive green spaces, and a connection to the Leine River. A densely wooded "Vogelinsel" (Bird Island) provides a nature preservation area within the lake. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for various fitness levels.
Last updated: July 25, 2026
4.7
(41)
409
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(72)
680
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(6)
36
hikers
6.00km
01:32
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
3.17km
00:48
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
hikers
2.74km
00:42
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A beautiful, easy-to-ride trail.
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Popular bench on the north bank.
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A bench in the shade with a beautiful view of the lake.
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The Göttingen Kiessee is a 15-hectare lake on the southwestern outskirts of the city. Formed by gravel mining, it has become one of Göttingen's most important recreational areas. The approximately 2.5-kilometer-long lakeside path is popular with joggers, walkers, and anglers throughout the year. The lake is only one to two meters deep and, as a result, is threatened by algal blooms and accelerated silting. To improve the freshwater supply, an inlet was built in 2003 to divert water from the Leine River, which flows east of the lake, into the lake. From an ecological perspective, however, this measure is completely pointless, as intensive agriculture in the Leine catchment area washes large quantities of fertilizer into the river, and these nutrients further accelerate the silting of the Kiessee. Therefore, the inlet is reduced or even closed, especially in warm early summers. http://stadt-natur-wildnis.de/wild/kiessee-goettingen/
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An institution in Göttingen - rowing on the Kiessee
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There are over 1,000 hiking trails around Kiessee, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 16,000 times.
The majority of hikes around Kiessee are considered easy, with over 700 routes falling into this category. There are also more than 300 moderate trails and a smaller selection of about 20 difficult routes for those seeking a greater challenge. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation changes.
Hiking around Kiessee offers picturesque lake views, expansive green spaces, and connections to the Leine River. You'll find a serene environment with blooming flowers and trees, especially vibrant in spring, and the calming sounds of birds. The landscape transforms beautifully with the seasons, from lush greenery to a potentially ice-covered lake in winter.
Yes, a notable natural feature is the "Vogelinsel" (Bird Island) in the southern part of the lake, which is a densely wooded nature preservation area providing a sanctuary for birds. To the south, the lake also connects to the River Leine, offering a near-natural recreation area to explore.
Yes, many of the trails around Kiessee are circular. A popular option is the View of the Göttinger Kiessee – South Shore of Kiessee loop from Göttingen, which is about 4.1 km long and offers continuous lake views. Another easy circular path is the View of the Göttinger Kiessee – Mature trees at Kiessee loop from Leineberg, covering approximately 4.0 km.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,600 reviews. Hikers often praise the scenic lake views, the well-maintained paths suitable for various fitness levels, and the peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Absolutely. The trails around Kiessee are generally easy and flat, making them very suitable for families. There's even a pirate ship playground at Kiessee on the east shore, featuring a play ship and sandpit, which is a great spot for children to enjoy after a walk.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the hiking trails around Kiessee. However, it's important to keep them on a leash, especially given the area's popularity and the presence of wildlife, including the protected "Vogelinsel" (Bird Island).
Kiessee offers a range of other outdoor pursuits. You can rent pedal boats and rowing boats, or enjoy canoeing, sailing, and rowing. There are designated picnic and barbecue areas, an outdoor fitness park, and a playground for children. It's also a popular spot for jogging, sunbathing, or simply unwinding.
Yes, along the paths, you'll find various facilities and attractions. These include the Pedal Boat Dock at Kiessee for water activities, the Pirate ship playground for families, and the Kiessee Outdoor Fitness Park. The South Shore of Kiessee is also a popular spot for leisurely walks and relaxation.
Kiessee is well-integrated into Göttingen's infrastructure, making it accessible by public transport. There are bus stops nearby that connect to the city center. For those arriving by car, parking facilities are available in the vicinity of the lake, though it's always advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and availability.
Yes, Kiessee is beautiful in winter. The landscape transforms, and the lake can even freeze over, historically used for ice skating. Cormorants and other wild birds frequent the lake during winter, offering opportunities for birdwatching. Just be sure to dress warmly and check trail conditions, as some paths might be icy.


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