The best hikes from bus stations around Ilmenau
4.6
(4962)
17,824
hikers
274
hikes
Hiking around Ilmenau, the region is characterized by the northern edge of the Thuringian Forest, featuring rolling hills, dense woodlands, and verdant valleys. The Ilm River flows through the area, offering scenic paths along its banks, while prominent features like Kickelhahn Mountain provide elevated viewpoints. The landscape also includes picturesque valleys such as Manebach and protected pond areas, contributing to a diverse natural environment for outdoor activities.
Best bus station hiking trails around Ilmenau
- The most popular bus station hiking…
Last updated: September 30, 2026
4.7
(89)
359
hikers
6.85km
02:20
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(35)
108
hikers
9.72km
03:19
460m
460m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(78)
192
hikers
12.1km
03:18
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.4
(38)
115
hikers
10.2km
02:44
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(32)
76
hikers
17.5km
05:16
550m
550m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
[...] Furthermore, "museum trips" take place on the Rennsteigbahn at irregular intervals. These also stop at the Bad stop. [...] Since June 2014, trains of the Erfurter Bahn have been running to Rennsteig station on weekends and public holidays. At the timetable change in December 2017, the services were taken over by Süd-Thüringen-Bahn for eleven years. [...] The station building is a two-story half-timbered building, which is richly decorated and formerly had a small tower on the roof. The roof is very steep, as snowy winters are to be expected due to its location in the Thuringian Forest, and a steeper roof is statically more stable than a flatter one. The building is very similar to the stations of Manebach, Stützerbach, Schmiedefeld, and Schleusingerneundorf. Directly next to the stop are the Lessingpark on the south side and the Ilm on the north side.
1
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Great view, no matter the weather 💚
1
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A hiking hut with a great view. It's also very easy to imagine a place where people don't understand each other in bad weather.
1
0
From here, just go straight ahead, always uphill. Not necessarily the fastest route, but definitely the shortest from Ilmenau.
0
0
Rocks with beautiful views
0
0
A great rest area with a beautiful view and very clean.
4
0
The climb to Kickelhahn is steep, but offers great views and a beautiful route through the forest.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus-accessible hiking trails are available around Ilmenau?
There are over 260 hiking routes around Ilmenau that are accessible by bus, offering a wide range of options for exploring the Thuringian Forest and its surroundings.
Are there easy hiking options accessible by bus from Ilmenau?
Yes, you'll find a significant number of easy hikes. Approximately 179 of the bus-accessible trails are rated as easy, making them suitable for casual walkers or families. Many of these routes explore the picturesque valleys and the Ilm riverbanks.
What kind of difficulty levels can I expect on bus-accessible trails?
The bus-accessible trails around Ilmenau cater to various fitness levels. You can choose from 179 easy routes, 77 moderate trails, and 12 more challenging hikes, ensuring there's something for everyone, from leisurely strolls to more demanding ascents into the Thuringian Forest.
Are there circular routes starting from bus stations in Ilmenau?
Yes, many of the bus-accessible trails are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop. For example, the Kickelhahn Observation Tower – Kickelhahn Tower loop from Ilmenau is a popular moderate option that brings you back to your starting point.
What can I see along the bus-accessible hiking trails around Ilmenau?
The trails offer diverse sights, from natural beauty to historical landmarks. You can visit the iconic Kickelhahn Tower for panoramic views, explore the scenic Freibach Valley, or discover the Finsteres Loch Wooden Bridge and Waterfall. The region is rich in both natural and cultural highlights.
Are there any trails that lead to prominent viewpoints?
Absolutely. Many bus-accessible routes lead to stunning viewpoints. The Kickelhahn Observation Tower – Kickelhahn Tower loop from Ilmenau is a prime example, taking you to the 21-meter-high observation tower on Kickelhahn Mountain, offering expansive vistas over the Thuringian Forest.
Are there family-friendly hiking trails accessible by bus?
Yes, Ilmenau offers several family-friendly bus-accessible routes. Many of the easy trails along the Ilm river or through the Ilmenau pond area are suitable for families. These often feature gentle terrain and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Can I bring my dog on these bus-accessible hiking trails?
Most hiking trails around Ilmenau are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas or near wildlife. It's always a good idea to check local regulations for specific trails or protected zones before you go.
What is the best season for hiking near Ilmenau using public transport?
The Thuringian Forest is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming forests, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant colors. Even in winter, some trails are suitable for snowshoeing or winter walks, though conditions can vary. Always check local weather before heading out.
Are there any longer, more challenging bus-accessible hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, routes like the Kickelhahn Tower – Knöpfelstaler Pond loop from Ilmenau offer longer distances and more significant elevation changes, providing a rewarding experience in the Thuringian Forest.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Ilmenau?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences around Ilmenau, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained trails, the diverse landscapes ranging from dense forests to scenic valleys, and the historical significance, particularly the connection to Goethe.
Are there any trails that pass by historical sites or cultural landmarks?
Certainly. Ilmenau has a rich history, and many trails incorporate cultural elements. The famous Goethe Hiking Trail, for instance, connects 17 places associated with Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, including the Goethehütte on Kickelhahn. You can also find routes near the Museum Hunting Lodge Gabelbach.
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