4.5
(1214)
4,401
hikers
133
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Schalksmühle are set within the Märkischer Kreis, characterized by rolling hills, green forests, and numerous small streams and lakes. The region's landscape is defined by its position between the Volme and Ennepe rivers, offering varied terrain for outdoor exploration. Hikers will find diverse wetlands around the Glörtalsperre Reservoir and picturesque riverside paths along the Volme River. This hilly and forested scenery is typical of the Sauerland region, providing a natural environment for family-friendly walks.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.7
(93)
261
hikers
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(40)
148
hikers
11.3km
03:11
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.7
(42)
124
hikers
14.1km
04:00
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(26)
77
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(31)
82
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A magnificent church in Schalksmühle!
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The bridge isn't immediately recognizable as a bridge, as it's subtly integrated into the Glör circular path. Nevertheless, you do cross the stream here and reach the other side with dry feet.
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The Glörtal Dam is a curved gravity dam made of rubble masonry, built between 1903 and 1904. It is located on the border between the Ennepe-Ruhr district and the Märkischer Kreis district in North Rhine-Westphalia. The dam is 32 meters high and its crest length is 168 meters.
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A beautiful path along the Nahmerbach stream. From here you can quickly reach the Brenscheid oil mill.
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At this point on the VolmeSchatz! theme trail "Our Forest," you have a wonderful view of the valley of Heesfeld.
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The VolmeSchatz! themed trails feature information panels along their circular routes. This is no exception. This panel on the "Our Forest: Past, Present, and Future" themed trail provides impressive insights into the forest of the future in times of human-caused climate change. Will there still be forests? What might they look like? Or have tipping points already been reached?
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Here you will find vivid information about our local forests, the effects of climate change, and humans as Factor X on the VolmeSchatz! theme trail "Our Forest: Past, Present, and Future."
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Beautiful wide view over the valley, you can get there on fine hiking trails
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There are over 130 family-friendly hiking trails around Schalksmühle, offering a wide variety of options for all ages and fitness levels. Many of these routes are considered easy, making them perfect for a leisurely family outing.
The family-friendly trails in Schalksmühle are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,100 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, including forests, hills, and picturesque reservoirs, as well as the well-maintained paths suitable for families.
Yes, Schalksmühle offers many easy trails perfect for families with young children or toddlers. These routes typically feature gentle inclines and well-trodden paths. A great example is the View of the Sauerland Hills – View of Sterbecker Valley loop from Heedfeld, which is classified as easy and offers lovely views.
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails in Schalksmühle are circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The area around the Glörtalsperre Reservoir is particularly popular for this, with options like the Glörbach – Glör Dam loop from Schalksmühle providing a scenic experience.
Schalksmühle's family hikes offer a wealth of natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can explore the stunning Glör Reservoir, a popular spot for recreation, or discover the historic Heilenbecke Reservoir, the oldest dam in South Westphalia. The Mäckingerbach Valley also offers picturesque scenery.
Yes, many of the trails in Schalksmühle are dog-friendly, making it a great destination for families with pets. The Glörtalsperre Reservoir even features a dedicated dog beach. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash where required and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
Schalksmühle is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly appealing for family hikes. In spring, the landscape bursts with fresh greenery and wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. The mild temperatures during these seasons are ideal for comfortable walking with children.
Yes, the hilly terrain around Schalksmühle provides numerous opportunities for panoramic views. Routes that ascend to higher points, such as those around the Rotthauser Heights, offer fantastic vistas over the Glörtalsperre and into the Volme valley. Consider the Glör Dam – View of Rotthausen loop from Schalksmühle for some great viewpoints.
Many trails, especially those around the Glörtalsperre, feature designated picnic areas where families can take a break and enjoy a snack amidst nature. The Glör Dam – Glörtalsperre Picnic Area loop from Glörtalsperre is a good option if you're looking for a route with easy access to picnic spots.
Yes, parking is generally available near the trailheads of popular routes in Schalksmühle. For example, many trails around the Glörtalsperre Reservoir have dedicated parking facilities. It's always a good idea to check specific route details for parking information before you head out.
For families interested in wildlife, the Mesekendahl Game Reserve (Wildgehege Mesekendahl) is a fantastic option. It features a family-friendly circular trail (A3) where you can spot pigs, deer, and other creatures in a natural setting, making it an engaging experience for children.


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