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Drenthe

Drents-Friese Wold

Easy hikes and walks around Drents-Friese Wold

4.5

(10104)

52,531

hikers

300

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Drents-Friese Wold traverse a diverse landscape of over 6,000 hectares, featuring extensive pine and deciduous forests, expansive heathlands, and shifting sand dunes known as "Kale Duinen." The region also includes small lakes, marshes, and natural brook valleys like the Vledder Aa. This varied terrain provides a range of natural environments for hikers to explore.

Best easy hiking trails around Drents-Friese Wold

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Kale Duinen Trail, a 3.6 miles (5.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 28 minutes to complete. This route explores the distinctive shifting sand dunes of the park.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Kraaiheidepollen Heath Trail – Shaded Forest Path loop from Aekinga, an easy 4.5 miles (7.2 km) path. This trail combines open heathland vistas with sections through shaded forest paths.
  • Local hikers also love the Drents-Friese Wold Boardwalk – Boardwalk over the Tilgrup loop from Oude Willem, a 3.6 miles (5.8 km) trail leading through marshy areas via a boardwalk, often completed in about 1 hour 28 minutes.
  • Hiking around Drents-Friese Wold is defined by its varied landscapes, including vast forests, colorful heathlands, and unique sand dunes. The extensive network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails in this guide.
  • The routes in Drents-Friese Wold are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1600 reviews. More than 8000 hikers have used komoot to explore Drents-Friese Wold's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 27, 2026

4.6

(21)

50

hikers

#1.

Kale Duinen Trail

5.85km

01:28

10m

10m

Hike the easy 3.6-mile Along the Kale Duinen trail through dynamic sand dunes, heath, and forests in Nationaal Park Drents-Friese Wold.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Drents-Friese Wold

The 100 kilometers of Appelscha

A complete hiking bucket list through every Dutch National Park

Other adventures around Drents-Friese Wold

The 100 kilometers of Appelscha

Hiking Collection by

Pauline van der Waal

Tips from the Community

Jelle Kuperus
April 24, 2026, Belevingspad: Boomstammentrap Naar de Televisietoren

read the text on the board interesting

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Good to enjoy during or after a stage of the Drenthe Pad

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On the border of southwest Drenthe and southeast Friesland lies a unique area. The Drents-Friese Wold National Park is one of the largest nature reserves in the Netherlands. In 2000, over 6,000 hectares of forest, heathland, drifting sand, and stream valley grasslands were designated as a National Park. The Drents-Friese Wold is among the most beautiful and important nature reserves in Europe and has therefore been designated a Natura 2000 area.

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Varied nature, surprising spots in a quiet environment, except for the traffic on the main road that you have to pass twice

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Lovely relaxing strolling here :)

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A wooden artwork of a mother woodpecker feeding her young.

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Here is also a nice walk for children

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A charming, narrow footpath that winds across the heath. Ideal for a quiet walk in the middle of the heathland.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available in Drents-Friese Wold?

There are over 180 easy hiking trails in Drents-Friese Wold National Park, offering a wide variety of routes through its diverse landscapes.

What kind of landscapes can I expect on easy hikes in Drents-Friese Wold?

Easy hikes in Drents-Friese Wold traverse a diverse landscape including vast pine and deciduous forests, expansive heathlands, and unique shifting sand dunes known as "Kale Duinen" or "Aekingerzand." You'll also find small lakes, marshes, and natural brook valleys like the Vledder Aa.

What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Drents-Friese Wold?

The easy routes in Drents-Friese Wold are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1600 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from the quiet forests to the open heathlands and impressive sand drifts.

Are there any circular easy walks in Drents-Friese Wold?

Yes, many easy trails in Drents-Friese Wold are circular. For example, the Kraaiheidepollen Heath Trail – Shaded Forest Path loop from Aekinga offers a combination of heathland and forest, while the Drents-Friese Wold Boardwalk – Boardwalk over the Tilgrup loop from Oude Willem provides a unique experience through marshy areas.

Can I find any unique natural features to see on easy hikes?

Absolutely. The park is famous for its "Kale Duinen" or Aekingerzand Sand Dunes, which are expansive shifting sand plains. You can explore these on routes like the Kale Duinen Trail. The Vledder Aa is also a notable natural brook valley.

Are there any lakes or ponds along the easy hiking routes?

Yes, the park features several small lakes and ponds. You might encounter the Grenspoel, Ganzenpoel, or Beuzeveen Pond. The Appelpoel Pond – Aekingerzand Sand Drift loop from Drents-Friese Wold & Leggelderveld specifically highlights one of these water features.

Are there any historical sites or landmarks accessible on easy trails?

Yes, the region has historical significance. You can find ancient burial mounds, known as hunebeds, near Diever, Oude Willem, and Vledder. For instance, the Hunebed D52, Diever is a notable historical site.

Are the easy hiking trails in Drents-Friese Wold suitable for families with children?

Many easy trails are ideal for families. Routes are generally flat and well-maintained. The Water pump on the Belevingspad – Daalmans Plek Experience Trail loop from Hoogersmilde is a shorter, engaging option that can be fun for children.

Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?

Drents-Friese Wold National Park generally welcomes dogs, but they must be kept on a leash in most areas to protect wildlife. Always check local signage for specific rules on each trail or in particular zones.

What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Drents-Friese Wold?

The park is beautiful year-round. Spring brings fresh greenery, while summer offers vibrant heathlands. Autumn provides stunning fall colors in the forests. Even in winter, the landscape can be serene, especially on clear, crisp days. The purple heather blooms in late summer, creating a particularly stunning vista.

Are there good starting points for easy hikes with parking available?

Yes, several convenient starting points offer parking. The Buitencentrum Drents-Friese Wold near Appelscha is a key starting point with facilities and information. Many trailheads, especially for popular routes, also have designated parking areas.

What kind of wildlife might I spot on an easy hike?

Drents-Friese Wold is rich in wildlife. On an easy hike, you might spot roe deer, foxes, badgers, and various bird species such as buzzards and green woodpeckers. The park is also known for its reptile population, including adders and viviparous lizards, and is a designated butterfly reserve.

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