Hiking in Winterberg & in the Sauerland region:

Pure enjoyment of nature

Hiking in Winterberg – Discover the hiking paradise in the Sauerland region

Welcome to the heart of the Sauerland region, where Winterberg presents itself as a top destination for hikers and nature lovers. With over 480 kilometers of marked hiking trails, the region offers an impressive variety: rolling hills, dense forests, clear streams, and idyllic valleys invite you to explore and relax. Whether a leisurely stroll or a challenging mountain tour – every step brings fresh air, tranquility, and spectacular views.

Popular hiking trails and sights

• Rothaarsteig – One of the most famous long-distance hiking trails in Germany, ideal for multi-day tours through the unspoiled low mountain landscape.
• Kahler Asten Steig – panoramic route to the highest mountain in North Rhine-Westphalia (841 m), with weather station and observation tower.
• Ruhrquelle – Family-friendly hiking trail to the source of the Ruhr river, with play stations and a place to stop for refreshments at the Ruhrquellenhütte.
• Winterberg High Tour – 82 km circular hike over the highest peaks of the Hochsauerland region, including Clemensberg, Ziegenhelle and Langenberg.
• Niedersfelder Hochheide – A unique high moorland area with the picturesque Golden Path and the popular high moorland hut.
• Sauerland Mountain Hiking Park – Seven certified quality trails for hikers of all experience levels.

More than nature: Culture, enjoyment and adventure

Along the trails, you'll find charming villages like Elkeringhausen, Züschen, Grönebach, and Neuastenberg, with half-timbered houses, regional cuisine, and cozy mountain huts. Families will enjoy a visit to the Kappe Adventure Mountain with its panoramic adventure bridge, summer toboggan run, and climbing forest. The Winterberg Bike Park and the Winterberg bobsleigh track also offer exciting alternatives.

Skywalk Willingen – Germany's longest pedestrian suspension bridge

The Skywalk Willingen is a spectacular highlight in the Sauerland region and has been open to visitors since July 2023. With an impressive length of 665 meters, it is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Germany and hovers up to 100 meters above the Stryck Valley.

The bridge connects the famous Mühlenkopf ski jump with the Musenberg hill and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and hills. Its Tibetan-style construction creates a gentle sway – a thrill that is both safe and unforgettable. An absolute must for hikers, nature lovers, and adventurers visiting Winterberg or Willingen.

Hiking in every season

Winterberg is a worthwhile destination year-round. In spring, the meadows bloom; in summer, long hiking days beckon; autumn paints the forests in warm hues; and in winter, the paths transform into snow-covered fairytale landscapes. Thanks to well-maintained trails and clear signage, hiking here is always a pleasure.

So: Lace up your hiking boots, pack your backpack and off you go!

Feel the rhythm of nature, leave everyday life behind and discover the diversity of the Sauerland region. Winterberg welcomes you – ready to give you unforgettable hiking experiences.



View our hiking routes right on your doorstep here:

Gasthof Sonnental - Nature Reserve / 🟨 / 02:47 am / 9.59 km - Let's go!

Gasthof Sonnental - Winterberg / 🟨 / 04:19 am / 14.7 km - Let's go!

Gasthof Sonnental - Winterberg / 🟨 / 03:27 am / 12.3 km - Let's go!

Gasthof Sonnental - Short hike with dog / 🟩 / 00:21 / 1.35 km - Letsgo!

Cycling & Mountain biking in Winterberg – Discover the Sauerland region on two wheels

Cycling & Mountain biking in Winterberg – Discover the Sauerland region on two wheels

Winterberg, located in the heart of the Sauerland region, is a true paradise for cyclists of all abilities. Whether leisurely tours through gentle hills, sporty rides over mountain passes, or pure thrills on steep trails – there's something for everyone here.

Leisurely cycling in a picturesque landscape

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, Winterberg offers an extensive network of paved cycle paths, country roads, and nature trails. Cycle alongside babbling brooks, through green valleys and charming villages that invite you to linger over coffee and regional specialties.

A particular highlight is the Ruhr Valley Cycle Route: This 230-kilometer-long cycle route begins at the source of the Ruhr River in Winterberg and leads through the Sauerland region to Duisburg in the Ruhr area. Along the way, forests, half-timbered houses, and industrial heritage sites alternate. The route is suitable for both leisure cyclists and families and offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and history.

• Starting point: Source of the Ruhr River near Winterberg
• Sights along the route: Arnsberg, Lake Baldeney, Villa Hügel and the Duisburg inland port
• ADFC-certified with 4 stars – one of Germany's most popular long-distance cycle routes

Mountain biking in the Winterberg Bike Park – The Mother

For adventure seekers, there's the legendary Winterberg Bike Park, also known as The Mother. This is the hotspot for mountain bikers looking for action, technical challenges, and speed.

With 17 different trails, from flow trails to extreme downhill routes, every rider will find the right challenge here. Highlights:

• Beginner & Kids Course: Ideal for young drivers and newcomers
• Freeride & downhill trails: For everyone who loves jumps, drops and tight turns.
• ShredAcad Bikeschool: Professional coaching for every level
• Bike rental & protective gear: High-quality bikes and equipment available on site

Thanks to three chairlifts, you don't have to pedal uphill yourself – more energy for the descent! The park is open from mid-April to early November and hosts spectacular events every year, such as the iXS Dirt Masters Festival and SHREDtember.

Whether a leisurely tour of the Ruhr Valley or an action-packed day at the bike park – Winterberg offers a unique cycling experience in every season. Put on your helmet, charge your battery, and off you go!

Take a look at our cycle paths right on your doorstep here:

(All routes and difficulty levels are based on an e-bike)

Gasthof Sonnental - Ruhrtal cycle path - Ostwig / 🟨 / 03:09 am / 47.9 km Letsgo!

Gasthof Sonnental - Züschen - Winterberg / 🟨 / 02:19 am / 28.7 km - Let's go!

Gasthof Sonnental - The Ruhr Valley Cycle Path - Olsberg / 🟨 / 03:48 am / 49.2 km - Let's go!

Gasthof Sonnental - Winterberg - Zuschen - Hallenberg - Neuastenberg / 🟥 / 05:23 am / 68.8 km - Let's go!

Gasthof Sonnental - Hochheidehütte – Willingen / 🟨 / 02:24 am / 27.8 km - Let's go!