Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg
18.5kmLength
557mElevation gain
5.5–6hrEstimated time
Point-to-point
This route follows stage 6 of the Bergischer Weg and connects Odenthal-Altenberg with Bergisch Gladbach. From the historic Altenberger Dom, the trail weaves through stream valleys and panoramic viewpoints toward the Baroque Bensberg Palace. Hikers pass near the source of the Strunde River, whose historical mills established the region's paper industry, while taking in views across the Cologne Lowland. Overnight stays are available in local guesthouses and hotels; wild camping is prohibited in North Rhine-Westphalia. Hikers should carry potable water, though refilling is possible in towns along the way. Both stage points connect to local public transit networks, with route timetables available at https://www.vrs.de. The full Bergischer Weg spans 262 km (163 miles) from Essen to Königswinter, usually hiked in 14 stages.
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Bergisch Weg
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Check out this 18.5-km point-to-point trail near Odenthal, North Rhine-Westphalia. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 7 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are May through September.
What is the expected weather this week for Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg?
Expected weather for Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg for the next 5 days is:
- Sat 26 September - 24.9 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 26.2 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 26.3 degrees/clear
- Tue 29 September - 26.3 degrees/clear
- Wed 30 September - 21.2 degrees/showers
Where is Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg located?
Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg is a trail located in Bergisches Land Nature Park.
How hard is Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg?
Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg is considered a hard hike that covers 18.5 km, with an elevation gain of 557 m. It takes about 5.5–6 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
What is the elevation gain for Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg?
Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg is considered a hard hike that covers 18.5 km, with an elevation gain of 557 m. It takes about 5.5–6 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg a point-to-point trail?
Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg is a point to point trail that covers 18.5 km, with an elevation gain of 557 m. It takes about 5.5–6 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 Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg?
Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg is a point to point trail that covers 18.5 km, with an elevation gain of 557 m. It takes about 5.5–6 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 Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg?
Dogs may be allowed on Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg?
May to September is the most popular time of year to visit Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg.
How busy is Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg?
According to trailgoers, Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg is usually somewhat busy. May to September is the most popular time of year to visit Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg.
Are there rivers at Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg?
Yes, Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg is near Dhünn.
Is backpacking allowed at Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg?
Backpacking is allowed on Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg. 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 Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg?
Yes, Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg is a forest trail in Bergisches Land Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Bergischer Weg Stage 6: Altenberg - Bensberg in Bergisches Land Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 24 September 2026 at 03:33 GMT+0