Elendstal Circular Route
8.4kmLength
352mElevation gain
Circular
Varied circular route in Lower Saxony.
From the car park in Schierke, the route runs parallel to the Alte Bode through the beautiful Elendstal valley. The stream is crossed and then the hike leads to the viewing pulpits and climbing rocks. The impressive cliffs are easy to climb and offer great views of Renneckenberg and Brocken. The Schnarcherklippen ("snoring cliffs")have their name because they make strange noises when the wind blows from a south-easterly direction. The north-eastern cliff can be climbed using ladders, while the south-western cliff is ideal for climbing. Another special feature of these rocks is the magnetite they contain - it deflects compass needles from their northerly direction.
There are numerous places to stop for refreshments and overnight accommodation in Schierke.
Highlights:
- Toboggan run
- Mauseklippe
- Barenberg viewing platform
- Schierke Castle
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Südliche Schnarcherklippe
Cliff
Mauseklippe
Peak
Kesselklippe
Peak
Rock & Round Bike Trail Spot
Attraction
Barenberg
Peak
Vaupels Klippe
Peak
Mäuseklippe
Cliff
Nördliche Schnarcherklippe
Cliff
Barenberg
Viewpoint
Schnarcherklippe
Viewpoint
Aussichtskanzel Barenberg
Viewpoint
Burg Schierke
Castle
Eulenbrunnen
Spring
Top sights
Südliche Schnarcherklippe
Cliff
Mauseklippe
Peak
Kesselklippe
Peak
Rock & Round Bike Trail Spot
Attraction
Barenberg
Peak
Vaupels Klippe
Peak
Mäuseklippe
Cliff
Nördliche Schnarcherklippe
Cliff
Barenberg
Viewpoint
Schnarcherklippe
Viewpoint
Aussichtskanzel Barenberg
Viewpoint
Burg Schierke
Castle
Eulenbrunnen
Spring
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
Beat the crowds with weekly and monthly trail activity data from our communityTop trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Check out this 8.4-km circular trail near Braunlage, Lower Saxony. Generally considered a moderately challenging route. This is a very popular area for camping, hiking, and rock climbing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are July through August.
What is the expected weather this week for Elendstal Circular Route?
Expected weather for Elendstal Circular Route for the next 5 days is:
- Sat 19 September - 12.6 degrees/showers
- Sun 20 September - 11.8 degrees/drizzle
- Mon 21 September - 11.3 degrees/clear
- Tue 22 September - 13.7 degrees/clear
- Wed 23 September - 16.4 degrees/clear
Where is Elendstal Circular Route located?
Elendstal Circular Route is a trail located in Braunlage, Lower Saxony, Germany.
Are dogs allowed on Elendstal Circular Route?
Dogs may be allowed on Elendstal Circular Route. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Elendstal Circular Route?
July to August is the most popular time of year to visit Elendstal Circular Route.
How busy is Elendstal Circular Route?
According to trailgoers, Elendstal Circular Route is usually busy. July to August is the most popular time of year to visit Elendstal Circular Route.
Are there scenic views at Elendstal Circular Route?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Elendstal Circular Route features multiple scenic viewpoints. Some of the viewpoints include Barenberg, Schnarcherklippe and Aussichtskanzel Barenberg.
Is camping allowed at Elendstal Circular Route?
Camping is allowed on Elendstal Circular Route. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Is rock climbing allowed at Elendstal Circular Route?
Rock climbing is allowed on Elendstal Circular Route. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Is Elendstal Circular Route a via ferrata route?
Yes, Elendstal Circular Route is a via ferrata route that requires special equipment and extra planning.
Are there forests at Elendstal Circular Route?
Yes, Elendstal Circular Route is a forest trail.
Are there wildflowers at Elendstal Circular Route?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Elendstal Circular Route, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on 15 September 2026 at 02:19 GMT+0