The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis
4.5
(44142)
166,729
hikers
518
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and river valleys. The region features diverse topography, from flat plains along the Ruhr River to elevated areas offering wide views. Numerous reservoirs and lakes, such as Glörtalsperre and Ennepetalsperre, add to the natural beauty and provide varied terrain for outdoor activities.
Best dog friendly hiking trails in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Herdecke Promenade on the Ruhr River – Lake…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
4.7
(586)
1,462
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(549)
1,343
hikers
11.7km
03:06
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(302)
907
hikers
5.85km
01:42
160m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(255)
740
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(1133)
4,712
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis
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Dog-friendly hikes around Herdecke
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Dog-friendly hikes around Wetter (Ruhr)
Dog-friendly hikes around Wetter
Dog-friendly hikes around N.S.G. Gevelsberger Stadtwald
Other adventures in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis
Tips from the Community
Wetter Castle ruins stand majestically on a hill overlooking Lake Harkort and are among the most historically significant castles in the Ruhr Valley. Their origins date back to the 13th century, when they were built by the Counts of the Mark as a fortified residence. Parts of the medieval structure are still visible today – including the keep, remains of residential buildings, and sections of the curtain wall. Over the centuries, the castle experienced turbulent times: During the Soest Feud (1444–1449), it was besieged and severely damaged. From the 18th century onward, it fell into increasing disrepair until it took on a surprising new role in the 19th century. In 1819, Friedrich Harkort, one of the pioneers of industrialization in the Ruhr region, established one of the region's first machine factories in the ruins – a milestone in early industrial history. Today, the castle ruins are a popular hiking destination with impressive views of Lake Harkort and the Ruhr Valley. Visitors appreciate the blend of nature, history, and panoramic views. Currently, construction work is causing temporary road closures, but the site remains an atmospheric highlight and an ideal place to tell the story of Wetter's development from a medieval castle settlement to an industrial town. https://hagenentdecken.de/kulturntdecken/sehenswuerdigkeitenwahrzeichen/
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Fancy a Christmas tree? So remember and wait
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The view of Wetter (Ruhr) and the Kaisbergaue offers a picturesque combination of historic city scenery and protected nature.
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The Deilbachtal Nature Reserve (Ennepe-Ruhr District) is located in the towns of Hattingen and Sprockhövel in the Ennepe-Ruhr District of North Rhine-Westphalia. The reserve extends from the crossing of the Deilbach stream under Elberfelder Straße (L70) to west of the former Deilbachmühle restaurant on Deilbachstraße. Where the Deilbach stream forms the border between the Ennepe-Ruhr District and Velbert (Mettmann District) or Wuppertal, the reserve runs only on the right bank of the Deilbach stream. See: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naturschutzgebiet_Deilbachtal_(Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis)
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The Deilbachtal Nature Reserve (Ennepe-Ruhr District) is located in the towns of Hattingen and Sprockhövel in the Ennepe-Ruhr District of North Rhine-Westphalia. The reserve extends from the crossing of the Deilbach stream under Elberfelder Straße (L70) to west of the former Deilbachmühle restaurant on Deilbachstraße. Where the Deilbach stream forms the border between the Ennepe-Ruhr District and Velbert (Mettmann District) or Wuppertal, the reserve runs only on the right bank of the Deilbach stream. See: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naturschutzgebiet_Deilbachtal_(Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis)
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The Deilbach is a stream that flows through Sprockhövel and originates near the town. It is part of the Deilbachtal nature reserve and forms the city border with Hattingen and Velbert. The Deilbach originates north of Wuppertal-Barmen, near the city border with Sprockhövel.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis?
The Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis offers a wide variety of dog-friendly hiking trails, with over 500 routes suitable for you and your canine companion. These range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
What types of landscapes can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis?
You'll find a diverse landscape featuring rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque riverine scenery along the Ruhr River. The region also boasts several beautiful lakes and reservoirs, such as the Glörtalsperre and Lake Kemnade, providing varied backdrops for your walks.
Are there any dog-friendly circular routes in the Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis?
Yes, the region has many excellent circular routes perfect for dog owners. For example, the Herdecke Promenade on the Ruhr River – Lake Harkort loop from Wetter (Ruhr) offers a scenic walk around Lake Harkort. Another option is the View of the Ruhr Hills – View of Nüfer Hof loop from Immelberg, which is an easier, shorter loop.
What are some popular dog-friendly trails near water in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis?
Many trails follow the Ruhr River or pass by the region's reservoirs. The Glörtalsperre is a popular spot, offering a loop trail and even places where bathing is permitted for dogs. Lake Kemnade also features paved paths ideal for a leisurely walk with your dog, especially in the early morning.
What interesting sights can I see along dog-friendly hiking trails in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis?
You can discover a mix of natural beauty and historical landmarks. Highlights include the Ruhr weir and towpath in Hattingen, the scenic View of Felderbachtal, and the impressive Ruhr Waterfalls at Hattingen. Some routes also pass by historic sites like Burg Blankenstein or the LWL-Industriemuseum Henrichshütte.
Are there any easy dog-friendly trails suitable for beginners or older dogs?
Absolutely. Over 300 of the dog-friendly routes in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis are classified as easy. An example is the View of the Ruhr Hills – View of Nüfer Hof loop from Immelberg, which is under 6 km and has minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed outing.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with my dog in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis?
Spring and autumn are generally the best seasons for hiking with your dog in the Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis. The weather is mild, and the natural scenery is particularly vibrant, offering comfortable conditions for both you and your pet.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis?
The Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 42,000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the diverse scenery, and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a favorite for dog owners.
Are there any dog-friendly trails that offer panoramic views?
Yes, the region includes the highest point in the Ruhr area, which offers wide views. Trails like the View of Felderbachtal – View of the Ruhr Hills loop from Wald am oberen Paasbach provide excellent opportunities to enjoy expansive vistas over the landscape.
Can I find dog-friendly trails that combine nature with historical elements?
Many routes in the Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis offer this blend. You can explore trails that pass by historic towns like Hattingen or Schwelm, or discover industrial heritage sites. For instance, the Deilbach stream in the Deilbachtal – Fields, Forests, and Meadows loop from Deilbachtal offers a mix of natural beauty and historical context.
Are there any longer dog-friendly routes for more experienced hikers?
For those seeking longer adventures, the Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis is home to sections of long-distance trails like the Ennepe-Ruhr Panorama Trail or the Ruhrhöhenweg. These trails offer more challenging and extended options for experienced hikers and their dogs.
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