Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock
67% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
11.7kmLength
585mElevation gain
3.5–4hrEstimated time
Point-to-point
This route is the first stage of the Harzer Hexen-Stieg, a long-distance hiking trail that crosses the Harz Mountains from Osterode am Harz to Buntenbock. The trail leads steadily uphill from the historic town of Osterode along the Upper Harz Water Regale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising historic dams and ditches.
Hikers pass through dense spruce forests and idyllic ponds, which are typical of the southern Harz landscape.
Accommodation is available in hotels and traditional guesthouses in the town centres, as wild camping is strictly prohibited throughout the region. Water is reliably available at the start and end points, but you should carry a sufficient supply for the first 600-metre ascent. Both locations are accessible by regional trains to Osterode and by buses to Buntenbock; timetables can be found at https://hvb-harz.de.
This text has been translated.
Part of a multi-day route
Harz Witches' Trail
Top sights
Bärenbrucher Teich
Lake
Ackerblick
Viewpoint
Bärenbrucher Teich
Hut
Antons Blick
Viewpoint
Köhlerhütte
Weather shelter
Heidelbeerköpfe
Peak
Ziegenberger Teich
Lake
Schöne Aussicht
Viewpoint
Blockkötenkopf
Peak
Butterberg
Peak
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
Beat the crowds with weekly and monthly trail activity data from our community
Adventure starts in the app
Offline maps, navigation, and conditions — all in one place
Top trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 11.7-km point-to-point trail near Osterode am Harz, Lower Saxony. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 30 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are March through October. Dogs are welcome and may be off-lead in some areas.
What is the expected weather this week for Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
Expected weather for Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock for the next 5 days is:
- Mon 21 September - 15.6 degrees/clear
- Tue 22 September - 17.3 degrees/clear
- Wed 23 September - 13.1 degrees/showers
- Thu 24 September - 15.2 degrees/foggy
- Fri 25 September - 20.1 degrees/clear
Where is Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock located?
Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock is a trail located in Harz Nature Park.
How hard is Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock is considered a moderate hike that covers 11.7 km, with an elevation gain of 585 m. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock is considered a moderate hike that covers 11.7 km, with an elevation gain of 585 m. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock a point-to-point trail?
Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock is a point to point trail that covers 11.7 km, with an elevation gain of 585 m. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Point-to-point routes have a different starting point and endpoint. The length of the trail refers to one-way travel on this route. Don't forget to plan for transportation when exploring point-to-point routes!
How long is Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock is a point to point trail that covers 11.7 km, with an elevation gain of 585 m. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Point-to-point routes have a different starting point and endpoint. The length of the trail refers to one-way travel on this route. Don't forget to plan for transportation when exploring point-to-point routes!
Are dogs allowed on Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock. Double check regulations about letting off the lead.
When is the best time of year to hike Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
March to October is the most popular time of year to visit Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock.
How busy is Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
According to trailgoers, Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock is usually busy. March to October is the most popular time of year to visit Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock.
Are there lakes at Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
Yes, Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock is near Bärenbrucher Teich and Ziegenberger Teich.
Are there scenic views at Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock features multiple scenic viewpoints. Some of the viewpoints include Ackerblick, Antons Blick and Schöne Aussicht.
Is backpacking allowed at Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
Backpacking is allowed on Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock. Backpacking trails are typically longer and are often point-to-point trails. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Are there forests at Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
Yes, Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock is a forest trail in Harz Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Harz Witches’ Trail Stage 1: Osterode - Buntenbock in Harz Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 20 September 2026 at 22:27 GMT+0