The best walks and hikes in Kyffhäuserkreis
4.6
(7419)
26,565
hikers
1,332
hikes
Hiking in Kyffhäuserkreis offers diverse landscapes, from the small Mittelgebirge range of the Kyffhäuser Mountains to the unique karst limestone terrain. The region features developing primeval forests in areas like the Hohe Schrecke, alongside the scenic Unstrut River Valley. Hikers will find varied woodlands, meadows, and gypsum landscapes, providing a range of natural features to explore.
Best hiking trails in Kyffhäuserkreis
- The most popular hiking route is Kyffhäuserweg von Bad Frankenhausen, a 22.9 miles (36.8 km) trail that takes about 10 hours 46 minutes to complete. This difficult route leads towards the Kyffhäuser Monument.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Urwaldpfad Possen – Thuringia's Primeval Forests of Tomorrow, a moderate 5.9 miles (9.6 km) path. This trail explores areas of developing primeval forest, showcasing wild nature.
- Local hikers also love the Bärental Suspension Bridge – View of the Unstrut Valley loop from Braunsroda, a 8.9 miles (14.4 km) trail leading through the Unstrut Valley, often completed in about 3 hours 59 minutes.
- Hiking in Kyffhäuserkreis is defined by karst limestone terrain, developing primeval forests, and the Unstrut River Valley. The network offers options for easy strolls, moderate paths, and difficult long-distance trails suitable for various ability levels.
- The routes in Kyffhäuserkreis are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 7,000 reviews. More than 26,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Kyffhäuserkreis's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 4, 2026
4.8
(515)
1,454
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(89)
296
hikers
9.55km
02:48
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(51)
166
hikers
36.8km
10:46
990m
990m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(19)
71
hikers
10.9km
03:03
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(396)
1,399
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
34.8km
09:54
800m
750m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(399)
1,392
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(189)
898
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(257)
1,033
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(174)
447
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures in Kyffhäuserkreis
Tips from the Community
The Jewish cemetery in Sondershausen could be established when the modern Jewish community was founded in the city at the end of the 17th century: in 1699, the area for a Jewish burial site south of the city on the Spatenberg was purchased. The "protected Jew" of the time, Alexander Cantor, acquired the property. The oldest gravestones (from the early 18th century) are located on the area to the left of the entrance gate (approx. 25 rows of graves). On the area to the right of the gate, there are seven rows of newer gravestones from the years 1885 to 1939; the last burial was in 1939 (Selma Baruch). The older gravestones are predominantly made of local shell limestone. There are approximately 180 burial sites. The cemetery area - in the shape of a triangle - covers about 33 ares. A cemetery hall / Taharahaus was present (demolished in 1988). In 1988, a memorial stone was erected at the site of the demolished cemetery hall - the inscription reads: "In silent remembrance of our murdered brothers and sisters 1933-1945". The cemetery was desecrated in August 1990, April 1997, December 2003, and August 2014. Location: South of the city on the Spatenberg; continuation of Possenallee / south of Heinrich-Cotta-Weg
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Great path, the steep meadows have now also been cleared again.
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Great hiking trail to the Kyffhäuser Monument
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Very nice to ride. It has something 👍
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Definitely worth seeing
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At the heart of the western upper castle rises the Barbarossa Tower, a defensive and residential tower that once served as the lords' last refuge. Today, it houses two exhibitions on the history of the keep and the Kyffhäuser region's tradition of earthwork sculpture. Surrounded by partially preserved curtain walls, the foundations of the palace and kitchen building, and the historic Erfurt Gate, the world-famous deepest castle well in the world is located opposite the tower. Information about opening hours and admission prices can be found here: https://www.kyffhaeuser-denkmal.de/mein-besuch/.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Kyffhäuserkreis?
Kyffhäuserkreis offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 1300 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy strolls to challenging long-distance trails, ensuring options for every fitness level. Specifically, there are around 660 easy routes, 580 moderate routes, and 110 difficult routes.
What kind of terrain and natural features can I expect on hikes in Kyffhäuserkreis?
The region is characterized by diverse landscapes. You'll encounter the small mountain range of the Kyffhäuser, unique karst limestone terrain with steppe-like flora, and developing primeval forests in areas like the Hohe Schrecke. The scenic Unstrut River Valley also offers leisurely trails, and you might even find gypsum landscapes with caves in the nearby South Harz Nature Park.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Kyffhäuserkreis?
Yes, Kyffhäuserkreis has several routes suitable for families. For an easy and engaging experience, consider the Urwaldpfad Rabenswald-Familienweg, which explores the 'primeval forests of tomorrow'. Another great option is the Goat and Sheep Enclosure – Wald-Wildnis Wood Carvings loop from Braunsroda, which is also easy and features interesting wood carvings. The 'In the Footsteps of Till Eulenspiegel' themed trail is also particularly suitable for families.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while hiking?
Many trails lead to significant landmarks. The impressive Kyffhäuser Monument offers panoramic views, and the Kyffhäuser Trail leads directly to it. You can also explore the Barbarossa Cave, Europe's only publicly accessible anhydrite cave, or the historic Reichsburg Kyffhausen with its deep castle well. The Gypsum hill in the Kyffhäuser is another natural monument worth seeing.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Absolutely. Many routes in Kyffhäuserkreis are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular choice is the Bärental Suspension Bridge – View of the Unstrut Valley loop from Braunsroda, offering scenic views. Another option is the Kyffhausen Lower Castle – View of the Kyffhäuser Monument loop from Naturschutzgebiet Rothenburg, an easy loop around historical sites.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Kyffhäuserkreis?
Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for hiking in Kyffhäuserkreis. The mild weather conditions are ideal, and the natural displays are particularly beautiful, with vibrant colors in spring (like yellow pheasant's eye and purple pasque flowers) and stunning foliage in autumn.
Are there any trails that explore the 'primeval forests of tomorrow'?
Yes, the region is home to the 'Thuringia's Primeval Forests of Tomorrow' initiative. You can experience this unique natural development on trails like the Urwaldpfad Possen or the Wiegental-Wildnisweg. These routes offer a glimpse into wild nature where everything grows freely and are known for spotting fire salamanders and rare dragonflies.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Kyffhäuserkreis?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 7,000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the unique karst formations to the tranquil primeval forests, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various difficulty levels. The historical landmarks and panoramic views are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any trails along the Unstrut River Valley?
Yes, the Unstrut River Valley offers picturesque hiking trails. These routes provide scenic views of the water and opportunities to discover cultural landscapes and historic buildings. A recommended section for hiking is between Bad Frankenhausen and Artern. The View of the Unstrut Valley – Bärental Suspension Bridge loop from Oberheldrungen is a great example of a trail exploring this area.
What are some options for longer, more challenging hikes?
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Kyffhäuserweg von Bad Frankenhausen is a difficult 36.8 km trail that takes nearly 11 hours to complete, leading towards the Kyffhäuser Monument. Another demanding option is the Urwaldpfad Hohe Schrecke, a 34.8 km route through developing primeval forests.
Are there any natural monuments or unique geological sites to explore?
Kyffhäuserkreis is rich in natural monuments and unique geological features. Beyond the Barbarossa Cave, you can visit the Gypsum hill in the Kyffhäuser. The region's distinctive karst limestone terrain, especially along the Kyffhäuser Trail, showcases fascinating rock formations and unique flora. The Geo Trail rock garden in the Kyffhäuser Forest also displays rock formations spanning millions of years.
Most popular routes in Kyffhäuserkreis
Most popular attractions in Kyffhäuserkreis
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