The best walks and hikes around Schalkenmehren
4.6
(5651)
21,171
hikers
94
hikes
Hiking around Schalkenmehren offers exploration of a unique volcanic landscape in Germany's Vulkaneifel district. The region is characterized by its maars, which are volcanic crater lakes formed by steam explosions, providing varied terrain and scenic views. Schalkenmehren is situated within the Vulkaneifel Nature Park, featuring extensive forests, wide fields, and the Lieser river. The landscape includes both water-filled maars and dry maars, offering diverse geological features for hikers.
Best hiking trails around Schalkenmehren
- The most popular hiking route is HeimatSpur MaareGlück – GesundLand Vulkaneifel, a 7.1 miles (11.4 km) trail that takes 3 hours 17 minutes to complete. This route explores the natural surroundings of the Dauner Maare.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Schalkenmehrener Maar – View of the Weinfelder Maar loop from Schalkenmehren, a moderate 5.0 miles (8.1 km) path. This trail connects two prominent maar lakes, offering views of the volcanic landscape.
- Local hikers also love the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg – Schalkenmehrener Maar loop from Schalkenmehren, a 6.0 miles (9.7 km) trail leading through volcanic landscapes and past the Dronke Tower, often completed in about 2 hours 50 minutes.
- Hiking around Schalkenmehren is defined by volcanic maars, serene maar lakes, and the diverse terrain of the Vulkaneifel Nature Park. The network offers options for easy walks, moderate hikes, and more challenging routes.
- The routes in Schalkenmehren are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 5,500 reviews. More than 21,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Schalkenmehren's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
4.8
(628)
2,253
hikers
11.4km
03:18
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(556)
2,060
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(33)
157
hikers
26.2km
07:20
510m
510m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(196)
742
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(184)
914
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Information on the Mürmes nature reserve can be found at NABU: https://www.nabu-daun.de/wir-sichern-fl%C3%A4chen/nsg-m%C3%BCrmes/ or at: https://ellscheid-vulkaneifel.de/408/tourismus/muermes
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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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The Sangweiher is an old maar lake and, thanks to extensive restoration measures, has become a lovely stop on your hike. This nature and bird sanctuary offers a habitat for flora and fauna, where you are welcome to be a guest.
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From the church without a village, you have a wonderful view.
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The lake in the western part of the maar varies in diameter between 500 and 575 meters and is up to 21 meters deep. The Schalkenmehren Maar is the largest of the three Dauner Eifel Augen (Eifel Eyes). Here, you can not only take in the nature and fresh air while hiking, but also cool off in the maar after a strenuous hike. Very beautiful hiking trails around the lake and a wealth of nature. Fantastic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level of hiking trails around Schalkenmehren?
Schalkenmehren offers a wide range of hiking difficulties. You'll find over 50 easy walks, around 30 moderate trails, and a few more challenging routes for experienced hikers. This variety ensures there's something for every fitness level.
What natural features can I expect to see on hikes in Schalkenmehren?
The region is famous for its unique volcanic landscape, particularly the 'maars' – volcanic lakes formed by steam explosions. You'll encounter serene maar lakes like the Schalkenmehrener Maar and the Gemündener Maar, as well as the diverse terrain of the Vulkaneifel Nature Park.
Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks worth visiting along the trails?
Absolutely. Hikers often enjoy the Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg for panoramic views. You can also find stunning vistas like the View of the Weinfelder Maar (Totenmaar) and a dedicated View of Totenmaar from the panoramic bench, offering picturesque scenes of the volcanic lakes.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Schalkenmehren?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. A manageable, asphalted circular route around the Schalkenmehrener Maar, approximately 3 km long, is ideal for families with children and is accessible from a barrier-free parking lot at the Tourist Information. Many of the easy trails are also suitable for families.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails around Schalkenmehren?
Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in the Vulkaneifel region. However, it's always advisable to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves or near livestock, and to respect local signage regarding pet access.
Are there many circular hiking trails around Schalkenmehren?
Yes, the area is well-suited for circular walks. Many routes, including popular ones like the Schalkenmehrener Maar – Gemündener Maar loop from Schalkenmehren, are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Schalkenmehren?
The Vulkaneifel region is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming nature, summer is perfect for combining hikes with swimming in the maars, and autumn offers vibrant foliage. Even winter can be charming for crisp walks, though some paths might be slippery.
Where can I park when hiking near Schalkenmehren?
Parking is generally available at key starting points for trails, including near the Tourist Information center for the Schalkenmehrener Maar circular route. Many trailheads for popular routes will have designated parking areas.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a more demanding experience, Schalkenmehren offers routes like the Volcano Trail. This route covers a significant distance and elevation, providing a good challenge and showcasing the region's rugged beauty.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Schalkenmehren?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique volcanic landscapes, the serene beauty of the maar lakes, and the well-maintained and varied network of trails that cater to all abilities.
Can I swim in the maars after a hike?
Yes, the Schalkenmehrener Maar features a 'Maarbad' (maar bath) which is popular for swimming and boating, especially during the summer months. It's a refreshing way to cool down after exploring the trails.
Are there any easy routes that offer great views?
Certainly. The Dronke Tower on the Mäuseberg – View of the Weinfelder Maar loop from Daun is an easy 5.3 km route that provides excellent views, including a glimpse of the Weinfelder Maar, making it accessible while still rewarding with scenic beauty.
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