Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh
67% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
14.5kmLength
349mElevation gain
4–4.5hrEstimated time
Point-to-point
This route is stage 2 of the Heidschnuckenweg, a long-distance trail through Northern Germany, starting in Buchholz i.d. Nordheide and ending in Handeloh. The path leads through the Höllenschlucht, a deep dry valley, before ascending the Brunsberg for panoramic views of blooming heather and birch trees. Hikers then traverse the Büsenbachtal, crossing the clear Büsenbach stream and climbing the Pferdekopf hill before finishing through dense evergreen forests.
Lodging is available in the terminal towns of Buchholz and Handeloh, but there are no designated campgrounds or shelters directly on this segment, and wild camping is prohibited. Water is scarce along the trail and must be carried; no reliable natural sources for treatment exist between the towns. Both trailheads are easily accessible via the Heidebahn regional train, with schedules found at https://www.bahn.de.
For the full route and all stages, see https://www.alltrails.com/lists/heidschnuckenweg - Official AllTrails List.
This text has been translated.
Part of a multi-day route
Heidschnuckenweg
Top sights
Brunsberg
Peak
Feenteiche
Pond
Pferdekopf
Peak
Büsenbachtal
Attraction
Kleiner Brunsberg
Peak
Höllenberg
Peak
Aussichtpunkt Büsenbachtal
Viewpoint
Lokschuppen mit Drehscheibe
Attraction
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?
Enjoy this 14.5-km point-to-point trail near Buchholz in der Nordheide, Lower Saxony. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 48 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking, hiking, and trail running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
What is the expected weather this week for Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
Expected weather for Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh for the next 5 days is:
- Sat 19 September - 17.7 degrees/støvregn
- Sun 20 September - 16.8 degrees/støvregn
- Mon 21 September - 16.8 degrees/klart
- Tue 22 September - 17.8 degrees/tåget
- Wed 23 September - 20 degrees/klart
Where is Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh located?
Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh is a trail located in Lüneburg Heath Nature Park.
How hard is Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh is considered a moderate hike that covers 14.5 km, with an elevation gain of 349 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh is considered a moderate hike that covers 14.5 km, with an elevation gain of 349 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh a point-to-point trail?
Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh is a point to point trail that covers 14.5 km, with an elevation gain of 349 m. It takes about 4–4.5 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 Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh is a point to point trail that covers 14.5 km, with an elevation gain of 349 m. It takes about 4–4.5 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 Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
Dogs may be allowed on Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
According to trailgoers, Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh is usually busy. Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there scenic views at Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
Yes, Aussichtpunkt Büsenbachtal is located on Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh.
Is there running at Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
Yes, trailgoers have said that Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh is good for running. This trail covers 14.5 km, with an elevation gain of 349 m.
Is backpacking allowed at Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
Backpacking is allowed on Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh. 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 Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
Yes, Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh is a forest trail in Lüneburg Heath Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Heidschnuckenweg Stage 2: Buchholz in der Nordheide - Handeloh in Lüneburg Heath Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 17 September 2026 at 01:02 GMT+0