Best attractions and places to see around Lucherberger Lake. The former Lucherberger See, once a lake in Inden, North Rhine-Westphalia, no longer exists, having been drained for mine expansion. Despite this, the broader vicinity offers points of interest, including a nature reserve on the west bank of the former open pit "Lucherberg 3" which serves as a breeding ground for rare bird species. Plans are underway for a new artificial lake, Indescher See, with filling projected to begin in 2030.
…Last updated: May 26, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Highlight • Lake
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At the height of the highlight, the path is now blocked off with barriers and locks (as of September 28, 2025).
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During the Inden opencast mine, Lake Lucherberg was located near the mining area and was drained starting in 2021.[1] On October 1, 2021, the lake was closed to sailing,[2] and preparations were made for its drainage from that date. The decline in water levels was clearly visible since January 2022. In spring 2024, the water level had dropped so much that the fish stocks had to be salvaged, and shortly thereafter, the lake was completely drained.
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The lake no longer exists; irrigation has been stopped, and the remaining area has been drained. Since the area of the former lake is now industrial property, a fence has been erected, making it no longer recommended as a tourist destination.
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The lake is history, there is no water left.
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The lake no longer exists 😢
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The lake is now almost drained.
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Now a nice leisure area.
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Lucherberger See no longer exists. It was drained between 2021 and 2024 to facilitate the expansion of the Inden surface mine. The area is now industrial property and is not accessible to the public, with fences erected.
Yes, despite the draining of the lake, the west bank of the former open pit "Lucherberg 3" is now a nature reserve. This area, known as Lucherberger Lake (Former Lucherberg 3 Open-Cast Mine), provides important breeding grounds for rare bird species.
Historically, there was a sensational bike path, the Cycle Path Along the A4 with Perfect Asphalt, leading from Merken to Inden. However, the asphalt near the drained lake has been removed, and some sections of paths are now blocked with barriers. For current cycling options, you can explore gravel biking routes or MTB trails in the broader region.
Plans are underway for a new artificial lake in the region called Indescher See. The filling of this new lake is projected to begin in 2030 and is expected to be completed around 2060. You can find a highlight for Indesee, which currently refers to an area undergoing significant change due to mining activities.
There was a Path by the Former Lucherberger See that previously offered views of the lake. However, with the lake drained and the area now industrial, access to some sections may be restricted. For current walking and running options, consider exploring running trails around Lucherberger Lake in the wider area.
Beyond the nature reserve, you might encounter unique natural features like The Knobby Tree, which is appreciated by visitors for its distinctive appearance.
While the former lake area is no longer accessible, the broader region offers family-friendly options. The nature reserve at the Former Lucherberg 3 Open-Cast Mine can be a place for quiet observation of nature. Many of the nearby routes for running, gravel biking, and MTB also include easy and moderate options suitable for families.
No, the Lucherberger See no longer exists. Even when it did, it was not publicly accessible, and swimming was prohibited as it was designated a nature reserve and owned by RWE Power.
Visitors appreciate the unique natural features, such as the nature reserve that serves as a breeding ground for rare birds. They also enjoy the opportunities for cycling and walking on paths that offer glimpses into the region's industrial transformation and natural beauty, even as the landscape continues to evolve.
The area around the Former Lucherberg 3 Open-Cast Mine, now a nature reserve, offers perspectives on the transformed landscape. While the original lake views are gone, the evolving terrain provides a unique visual experience.
The best way to explore is by utilizing the various routes available for different sports. You can find dedicated guides for running, gravel biking, and mountain biking, which detail routes of varying difficulty in the wider region.


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