The best running trails around Emmen
4.3
(113)
6,136
runners
571
runs
Jogging around Emmen offers diverse natural landscapes and well-maintained trails suitable for various fitness levels. The region features extensive forests like Emmerdennen and Noordbargerbos, providing wooded paths for runners. Additionally, Emmen is characterized by heathlands and significant moorland areas, such as the Bargerveen Nature Reserve, which offer expansive views. Picturesque riverbanks and areas around bodies of water, including Rietplas Park, provide pleasant running routes.
Best jogging routes around Emmen
- The most popular jogging route is Rietplas Park – Kleine Rietplas…
Last updated: May 31, 2026
5.0
(1)
131
runners
13.8km
01:26
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
158
runners
8.46km
00:53
10m
10m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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158
runners
10.1km
01:04
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
95
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
79
runners
8.60km
01:00
10m
10m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
De Kleine Rietplas is located on the edge of the Wijk Rietlanden in Emmen. In addition to a sandy beach with a sunbathing lawn, you will find a restaurant and snack bar with a beautiful view of the lake from the terrace. There is also a playground, zip line, skateboard ramp, raft in the water, panna cage, observation tower, and canoe rental. In short; there is plenty to do for the whole family! There is free parking and showers are available. The area is cleaned regularly. De Kleine Rietplas is connected to the Grote Rietplas. The Grote Rietplas recreational area includes a surf and sailing lake, among other things. There are also beaches, sunbathing lawns, small harbors, a campsite, parking lots, a canoe course, and walking and cycling paths through the area. Various events are organized annually in the recreational area, such as RetroPop, the international Kite Festival, and the Rietplasloop. Parc Sandur is located on the southeast side of the lake. Source: https://www.drenthe.nl/locaties/226344250/kleine-rietplas
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De Kleine Rietplas is located on the edge of Wijk Rietlanden in Emmen. In addition to a sandy beach with a sunbathing area, you will find a restaurant and snack bar with a beautiful view of the lake from the terrace. There is also a playground, zip line, skateboard ramp, raft in the water, pannakooi (enclosed football pitch), lookout tower, and canoe rental. In short; plenty to do for the whole family! There is free parking and showers are available. The area is cleaned regularly. De Kleine Rietplas is connected to the Grote Rietplas. The Grote Rietplas recreational area includes, among other things, a lake for surfing and sailing. In addition, there are beaches, sunbathing areas, marinas, a campsite, parking spaces, a canoe course, and walking and cycling paths through the area. Various events are organized annually in the recreational area, such as RetroPop, the international Kite Festival, and the Rietplasloop. Parc Sandur is located on the southeast side of the lake. Source: https://www.drenthe.nl/locaties/226344250/kleine-rietplas
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After the peat bog was extracted in the 1960s, the Dutch Forestry Commission began the renaturation of what is now the Bargerveen nature reserve. Today, due to its exceptional diversity of flora and fauna, it enjoys special protection as a European bird sanctuary and an important wetland. You can explore the area on approximately 30 kilometers of hiking trails, enjoy panoramic views of the bog from the observation hill and tower, or experience the unique landscape on guided tours and accessible rides on the Veenland Express train.
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The ice of the Saale glaciation brought boulders of all shapes and sizes from Scandinavia to Drenthe. The largest boulder in Drenthe lies along the road from Emmen to Erm in the Noordbargerbos forest. The "Thickest Stien" must weigh at least 55,000 kilos. The Noordbargerbos is a relatively young forest in a beautiful nature reserve.
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A charming drawbridge over the water at the Grote Rietplas, offering a beautiful view of the surrounding nature reserve. This picturesque bridge is perfect for a short stop during a walk, with a view of reed beds, water birds and the calm water.
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An impressive sight this lock
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Emmen?
Emmen offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 550 trails available. These range from easy jogs to more challenging runs, ensuring options for every fitness level.
What types of terrain can I expect on Emmen's running trails?
Emmen's running trails feature diverse natural landscapes. You can expect to run through lush forests like Emmerdennen and Noordbargerbos, across scenic heathlands, and alongside expansive moorlands and wetlands, particularly in the Bargerveen Nature Reserve. Many routes also follow picturesque riverbanks and areas around bodies of water, such as Rietplas Park.
Are there running routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy jog?
Yes, Emmen has plenty of options for beginners and those seeking an easier run. Out of over 550 routes, 52 are classified as easy. These often feature mostly paved surfaces and minimal elevation changes, making them accessible for all skill levels.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I discover along Emmen's running routes?
While running in Emmen, you can explore significant natural attractions such as the vast Bargerveen Nature Reserve with its unique moorland views. Other notable features include the tranquil Lake Dankern, and the scenic Vechte River. Many routes also pass through beautiful forested areas like Emmerdennen and Noordbargerbos.
Are there any circular running routes in Emmen?
Yes, many of Emmen's running routes are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Rietplas Park – Kleine Rietplas loop from Zeldenrust is an 8.8 km moderate circular route, and the Forest Path by the Water loop from Emmen Zuid is an 11.8 km loop through forested areas.
What do other runners say about the trails in Emmen?
The running routes in Emmen are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 80 reviews. Runners frequently praise the diverse natural landscapes, well-maintained trails, and the variety of environments suitable for all fitness levels.
Are there any longer or more challenging running routes for experienced runners?
Absolutely. For experienced runners seeking a greater challenge, Emmen offers 74 difficult routes. An example is the Bargerveen Moorland Route – Bargerveen Nature Reserve loop from Weiteveen, a challenging 16.3 km path that takes you through expansive moorland.
Can I find running routes that go through forests?
Yes, Emmen is known for its extensive forests, providing excellent opportunities for forest runs. Areas like Emmerdennen and Noordbargerbos offer lush, wooded trails. The Forest Path by the Water loop from Emmen Zuid is a popular 11.8 km route that leads through forested areas alongside water.
Are there running routes near water bodies or riverbanks?
Many pleasant running routes in Emmen are found along picturesque riverbanks and around bodies of water. Rietplas Park is a prime example, offering routes like the Rietplas Park – Kleine Rietplas loop from Zeldenrust. You can also find trails along the Vechte River.
Are there running routes that offer views of moorlands or wetlands?
Emmen is home to significant moorland and wetland areas, most notably the Bargerveen Nature Reserve. The Bargerveen Nature Reserve – View of the Bargerveen wetlands loop from Bargerveen is a 14.4 km moderate run that provides expansive views over these unique landscapes.
What is a good moderate-difficulty running route in Emmen?
A great moderate-difficulty option is the Oosterbos loop from Klazienaveen-Noord. This 8.6 km route is primarily on paved surfaces and offers a pleasant run suitable for those looking for a balanced challenge.
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