4.6
(3307)
12,751
hikers
22
hikes
Hiking in Tagebau Haverlahwiese offers diverse terrain within a successfully renaturated former open-cast mine. The landscape features a mix of forest and field trails, narrow footpaths, and areas with undulating ground relief. Prominent natural features include a 15-hectare open-pit lake, smaller ponds, and streams, alongside slopes adorned with mixed deciduous forests and calcareous grasslands. This area provides varied hiking experiences across its transformed industrial landscape.
Last updated: May 23, 2026
4.6
(159)
448
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(106)
405
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(26)
101
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(10)
52
hikers
3.60km
00:56
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.9
(10)
36
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Great limestone wall in front of an unkempt barbecue area.
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No view, the plants have grown.
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Beautiful view of the Heerter See.
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The entrance to the LACK II air raid shelter in Salzgitter-Gebhardshagen can still be seen in the wall.
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It has an amazing light blue color
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beautiful dense deciduous forest
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The reserve offers diverse terrain, from forest and field trails to narrow footpaths. You'll find a 'strongly undulating ground relief' with a mix of dry and wet biotopes, reflecting its history as a transformed open-cast mine. Some sections may also be asphalted, providing varied walking surfaces.
Yes, Tagebau Haverlahwiese has plenty of options for easy walks. Out of the 22 available routes, 16 are classified as easy. For example, the View of the Reihersee – Panoramic view of the Reihersee loop from Gebhardshagen is an easy 7.3 km path offering scenic views.
The area is rich in natural and historical features. You can explore the Haverlahwiese Open-pit Mine Nature Reserve itself, which includes the prominent Haverlahwiese Pit Lake. Other points of interest include the Enchanted Coppice Forest at Sieben Köpfe and remnants of its mining past like the Haverlahwiese II Shaft.
Yes, several trails offer excellent views. The View over the Tagebau Haverlahwiese – Haverlahwiese Pit Lake loop from Tagebau Haverlahwiese specifically leads through the transformed mining landscape with opportunities for panoramic vistas. Depending on the trail and season, you can also enjoy views towards Salzgitter-Lichtenberg and the Leine Valley.
The komoot community highly rates hiking in Tagebau Haverlahwiese, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1000 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscape, the successful renaturation of the former mine, and the variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels.
Many of the trails are considered easy and suitable for all fitness levels, making them ideal for families. The diverse landscape with its lakes and forests offers an engaging environment for children to explore. Consider shorter, easy routes like the Altenhagen Hiking Car Park – View of Altenhagen loop from Lichtenberg, which is only 3.5 km long.
Tagebau Haverlahwiese is generally dog-friendly, offering open spaces and varied paths for walks. However, as it is a nature reserve, it's important to keep dogs on a leash to protect the local wildlife, especially during breeding seasons. Always check local signage for specific regulations.
Yes, many of the routes in Tagebau Haverlahwiese are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Salzgitter Ridge Trail – Castle Garden at Lichtenberg Castle loop from Gebhardshagen is a moderate 12.4 km circular trail that offers views towards Lichtenberg Castle.
While specific parking areas are not detailed for every trail, routes often start from locations like Gebhardshagen or Lichtenberg, which typically have designated parking. The Altenhagen Hiking Car Park – View of Altenhagen loop from Lichtenberg explicitly mentions a hiking car park, indicating available facilities in the area.
Tagebau Haverlahwiese offers unique experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, including orchid meadows, while autumn showcases vibrant deciduous forests. The diverse terrain and water bodies make it a pleasant destination in milder weather, though specific seasonal conditions should always be considered for comfort and safety.
Yes, the area combines natural beauty with historical interest. The nearby Lichtenberg Castle Ruins provide a cultural point of interest and can be incorporated into longer hikes. The Salzgitter Ridge Trail – Castle Garden at Lichtenberg Castle loop from Gebhardshagen offers views towards this historical landmark.
As a vital nature reserve, Tagebau Haverlahwiese is home to numerous animal species, including some rare and endangered ones. It's particularly significant for various amphibian species, such as the Great Crested Newt. The open areas also teem with insects like dragonflies, butterflies (including swallowtails), and different types of grasshoppers.


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