W5 - Balksee
20.1kmLength
266mElevation gain
4.5–5hrEstimated time
Circular
Idyllic and varied circular walk through moorland, forest and the Geest near Wingst in Lower Saxony.
This beautiful circular walk starts at the zoo in Wingst and leads via the German Olympus with the observation tower of the same name across from east to west through the Wingst forest via the Heidkamp and Schwedenfeld railway to Westerhamm. You return to the starting point of the tour via the Balksee nature reserve and the surrounding moorland, mostly on forest and moorland paths. Good hiking boots are recommended.
Highlights:
- Wonderful views
- Local flora and fauna
- Varied natural landscapes
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The route is marked throughout with a blue directional arrow on a white background.
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Top sights
Deutscher Olymp
Peak
Silberberg
Peak
Kurpark
Attraction
Königstanne / Naturdenkmal
Attraction
Gretenberg
Peak
ehem. Johannisbrunnen
Attraction
Ketelbarg
Archaeological site
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Top trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Experience this 20.1-km circular trail near Wingst, Lower Saxony. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 28 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
What is the expected weather this week for W5 - Balksee?
Expected weather for W5 - Balksee for the next 5 days is:
- Sun 20 September - 16.3 degrees/motregen
- Mon 21 September - 16.7 degrees/onbewolkt
- Tue 22 September - 18 degrees/onbewolkt
- Wed 23 September - 17.1 degrees/buien
- Thu 24 September - 16.3 degrees/mistig
Where is W5 - Balksee located?
W5 - Balksee is a trail located in Wingst, Lower Saxony, Germany.
How hard is W5 - Balksee?
W5 - Balksee is considered a moderate hike that covers 20.1 km, with an elevation gain of 266 m. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for W5 - Balksee?
W5 - Balksee is considered a moderate hike that covers 20.1 km, with an elevation gain of 266 m. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is W5 - Balksee a circular?
W5 - Balksee is a circular trail that covers 20.1 km, with an elevation gain of 266 m. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Circular trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
How long is W5 - Balksee?
W5 - Balksee is a circular trail that covers 20.1 km, with an elevation gain of 266 m. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Circular trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
Are dogs allowed on W5 - Balksee?
Dogs may be allowed on W5 - Balksee. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
Is W5 - Balksee paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, W5 - Balksee is partially paved.
Are there forests at W5 - Balksee?
Yes, W5 - Balksee is a forest trail.
Last updated on 9 September 2026 at 22:55 GMT+0