The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Boswachterij Gees

Boswachterij Gees offers a wide selection of routes suitable for families. You'll find over 40 hiking trails, with more than 25 of these specifically rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.

Boswachterij Gees is celebrated for its diverse and tranquil natural landscapes. Families can explore expansive heathlands and peaceful deciduous forests, which were originally planted to prevent sand drifts. The area's elevated position also provides scenic views over the surrounding Drenthe grasslands, offering a lovely and quiet environment for walking.

Yes, many of the trails in Boswachterij Gees are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, you could try the easy Viewpoint Over Het Ven – Bridge Over the Geeserstroom loop from Gees, which is just over 5 km, or the slightly longer easy Path Through the Meppelhooilanden – Mepperhooilanden loop from Gees at around 7.9 km.

You'll encounter several interesting natural features. A prominent highlight is the Mekelermeer in Boswachterij Gees, the largest fen in the area and a unique geological formation. You might also cross the charming Bridge Over the Geeserstroom or discover the Tilweg Cobblestone Section (Gees Forest).

Boswachterij Gees is home to diverse wildlife. The many fens attract various bird species, including ducks, geese, and swans, making it a rewarding spot for birdwatchers, especially from the Birdwatching viewpoint at Veenplas. You might also spot Scottish Highlanders grazing in the heathlands, helping to maintain the landscape, and occasionally even grass snakes or adders.

Absolutely. Many trails are designed to be accessible for all ages and fitness levels. An excellent option is the easy Bridge Over the Geeserstroom – View of De Hoge Stoep loop from Gees, which is under 5 km and features minimal elevation gain, perfect for little legs.

Yes, there are designated parking areas at various entry points to Boswachterij Gees. These are typically well-marked and provide convenient access to the trailheads, making it easy to start your family adventure.

While Boswachterij Gees is primarily accessed by car, some public transport options might get you to nearby villages like Gees. From there, you may need to walk or arrange for local transport to reach the specific trailheads. We recommend checking local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

No, permits are generally not required for hiking the trails within Boswachterij Gees. The area is open for public enjoyment, allowing families to explore its natural beauty freely.

Boswachterij Gees is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for family hikes. In spring, the forests burst with new growth, and in autumn, the deciduous trees offer stunning colors. Summer is also lovely, but remember that Scottish Highlanders often cool off in the fens on warm days, so keep a respectful distance.

The komoot community highly rates Boswachterij Gees, with an average score of 4.45 stars from over 2,100 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet, diverse landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to observe wildlife like the Scottish Highlanders and various bird species in a peaceful setting.

For families with older children or those looking for a bit more of a challenge, the moderate Bridge Over the Geeserstroom – Mepperhooilanden loop from Rustpunt B&B Bosinn offers a rewarding experience. This route covers approximately 13.6 km through varied terrain, providing a longer adventure while still being manageable.