The best volcano hikes and walks in Dauner Maare
4.5
(17991)
64,490
hikers
13
hikes
Volcano hiking trails in Dauner Maare traverse a unique volcanic landscape characterized by its distinctive "maare," which are circular lakes formed by volcanic activity. The region features water-filled craters nestled within rugged terrain, alongside numerous dry maars and volcanic cones. Lush green, wooded slopes frame the deep blue waters, highlighting the area's rich geological history as part of the Vulkaneifel UNESCO Global Geopark.
Best volcano hiking trails in Dauner Maare
- The most popular volcano hiking route is Dronke Tower on…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
4.7
(556)
2,060
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(18)
69
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(8)
41
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(12)
33
hikers
16.9km
04:46
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
24
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
very nice view of Schalkenmehren and its Maar
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at this point now well hidden behind trees
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The Daun Maars - 10,000-Year-Old Volcanic Lakes The Daun Maars were formed around 10,000 years ago from volcanic steam explosions. Hot lava rises from the Earth's interior and meets water, which suddenly evaporates. This blasts away entire mountain peaks. What remains is a deep crater that fills with water over the years and a wall of boulders surrounding the lake. The Daun Maars include the Gemünden Maar, the Weinfelder Maar, and the Schalkenmehrener Doppelmaar. One crater of the Schalkenmehren Maar has silted up over the millennia. The area is a nature reserve and a refuge for waterfowl and rare dragonfly species. Text / Source: deutschland-outdoor.der https://deutschland-outdoor.de/eifel/dauner-maare
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Weinfelder Maar The Weinfelder Maar, formed by volcanic activity around 20,000 to 30,000 years ago, is the highest of the three Daun Maars at 487 meters above sea level. The lake is 51 meters deep and has a diameter of 396 to 429 meters. An almost melancholic atmosphere surrounds the maar. Many legends surround the tranquil Eifel eye. A castle is said to have once stood on the site of the crater, where a count lived with his wife and only child. After returning home from a hunt, the castle had sunk as punishment for the woman's nastiness, and he found only a lake where a cradle miraculously floated his child safely to the shore. If you look at the dark surface of the water long enough, it is said that you can make out the outline of the castle. The German landscape painter Fritz von Wille was so fascinated by the Weinfelder Maar that he repeatedly immortalized it in his paintings. Among his favorite motifs was the small chapel on the north bank, dedicated to Saint Martin. It was once the parish church of the village of Weinfeld, which was ravaged by the plague in the 16th century. Anyone who rings the bells inside by pulling the ropes can make a wish. To this day, the associated cemetery is maintained and used by the local community of Schalkenmehren. This is also where its second name, Totenmaar, comes from. Donkeys and goats have been introduced to the Weinfelder Maar to regulate vegetation. The maar's unique flora and fauna are protected. Swimming and other water sports are prohibited in the Weinfelder Maar, but a nearly two-kilometer-long path makes it a wonderful place to explore on foot. Parking: Guests can park along the L64 either in the parking lot at the Weinfelder Maar or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder Maar and the Schalkenmehrener Maar. Text / Source: GesundLand Vulkaneifel GmbH, Leopoldstr. 9 A, 54550 Daun https://www.eifel.info/a-weinfelder-maar
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The Daun Maars - 10,000-Year-Old Volcanic Lakes The Daun Maars were formed around 10,000 years ago from volcanic steam explosions. Hot lava rises from the Earth's interior and encounters water, which suddenly evaporates. This blasts away entire mountain peaks. What remains is a deep crater that fills with water over the years and a wall of boulders surrounding the lake. The Daun Maars include the Gemünden Maar, the Weinfelder Maar, and the Schalkenmehrener Doppelmaar. One crater of the Schalkenmehrener Maar has silted up over the millennia. The area is a nature reserve and a refuge for waterfowl and rare dragonfly species. Text / Source: deutschland-outdoor.der https://deutschland-outdoor.de/eifel/dauner-maare
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Weinfelder Maar The Weinfelder Maar, formed by volcanic activity around 20,000 to 30,000 years ago, is the highest of the three Dauner Maars at 487 meters above sea level. The lake is 51 meters deep and has a diameter of 396 to 429 meters. An almost melancholic atmosphere surrounds the maar. Many legends surround the quiet Eifel eye. A castle is said to have once stood on the site of the crater, where a count lived with his wife and only child. After returning home from a hunt, the castle had sunk as punishment for the woman's nastiness, and he found only a lake where a cradle miraculously floated his child safely to the shore. If you look at the dark surface of the water long enough, it is said that you can make out the outline of the castle. The German landscape painter Fritz von Wille was so fascinated by the Weinfelder Maar that he repeatedly immortalized it in his paintings. Among his favorite motifs was the small chapel on the north bank, dedicated to Saint Martin. It was once the parish church of the village of Weinfeld, which was struck by the plague in the 16th century. Anyone who makes the bells inside ring by pulling the ropes can make a wish. To this day, the associated cemetery is maintained and used by the local community of Schalkenmehren. This is where its second name, Totenmaar, comes from. Donkeys and goats have been introduced to the Weinfelder Maar to regulate vegetation. The maar's unique flora and fauna are protected. Swimming and other water sports are prohibited in the Weinfelder Maar, but a nearly two-kilometer-long path makes it a wonderful place to explore on foot. Parking: Visitors can park along the L64 either in the parking lot at the Weinfelder Maar or on the Maarsattel between the Weinfelder Maar and the Schalkenmehrener Maar. Text / Source: GesundLand Vulkaneifel GmbH, Leopoldstr. 9 A, 54550 Daun https://www.eifel.info/a-weinfelder-maar
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Go towards the observatory and you have a great view of Schalkenmeheren
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many volcano hiking trails are available in Dauner Maare?
There are 13 volcano hiking trails in Dauner Maare, ranging from easy to difficult. You'll find 6 easy routes, 5 moderate, and 2 more challenging options to explore the unique volcanic landscape.
What are the main natural features to see on volcano hikes in Dauner Maare?
The primary natural features are the maars themselves, which are volcanic crater lakes. You can explore the Schalkenmehrener Maar, the Gemündener Maar, and the Weinfelder Maar (also known as Totenmaar). These deep blue lakes are nestled within lush, wooded slopes, offering stunning views and a constant reminder of the region's volcanic past.
Are there any viewpoints or landmarks along the volcano trails?
Yes, a prominent landmark is the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg, which offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Eifel's volcanic landscape and the maars. You'll also find several scenic viewpoints like the View of the Gemünden maar and the View of the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar).
Are there any circular volcano hikes in Dauner Maare?
Yes, many of the trails are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg – Schalkenmehrener Maar loop from Schalkenmehren is a moderate 9.6 km circular route that takes you past key sights.
What is the best time of year to hike the volcano trails in Dauner Maare?
The Dauner Maare region is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming flora, summer offers pleasant conditions for swimming in the maars, autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and winter can provide serene, snow-dusted landscapes. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially for winter hikes.
Are the volcano hikes in Dauner Maare suitable for families?
Many trails are family-friendly, especially the easier routes around the maars. The Gemündener Maar, for example, is the smallest and allows for swimming and boating, making it a great spot for a family outing. Look for routes marked as 'easy' for the most suitable options.
Can I bring my dog on the volcano hiking trails?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the Dauner Maare, but it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas like around the Weinfelder Maar. Be mindful of local regulations and other hikers.
What is the typical terrain like on these volcano trails?
The terrain often features paths traversing areas with coarse-grained lava, reminding you of the region's explosive geological past. You'll encounter varied surfaces, from well-maintained paths around the maars to more rugged sections on slopes, with some routes requiring good fitness and sure-footedness.
Are there places to eat or drink near the volcano hiking trails?
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. The Gemündener Maar has a forest café, and the Schalkenmehrener Maar also offers places for refreshments. The towns surrounding the maars, such as Daun and Schalkenmehren, also have various cafes and restaurants.
What do other hikers say about the volcano trails in Dauner Maare?
The Dauner Maare region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning views of the maars, the well-marked paths, and the unique volcanic landscape that makes for a truly memorable hiking experience.
Is there a longer, more challenging volcano hike available?
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Schalkenmehrener Maar – Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg loop from Daun is a difficult 22.2 km route with over 400 meters of elevation gain, offering an extensive exploration of the volcanic landscape.
Where can I find information about the geological significance of the Dauner Maare?
The Vulkaneifel is recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark due to its worldwide significance for maar volcanism. You can learn more about the unique density of maars and other volcanic phenomena through local information centers or by visiting resources like rlp-tourismus.com.
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