Externsteine
56% of reviewers say this trail is easy
5.5kmLength
175mElevation gain
1.5–2hrEstimated time
Circular
Varied circular hike around the Externsteine in the Teutoburg Forest Nature Park.
The Externsteine are striking sandstone rock formations in the Teutoburg Forest, which represent an outstanding natural attraction in Germany and are protected as a natural and cultural monument. The circular route leads from the free Hermannsweg hiking car park on the B1 (exit Horn / Detmold-Süd) to the Externsteinen via the Bärdenstein and the Knickhagen. The route makes a detour to the visitor center, where there is a stop for refreshments. Parking directly at the visitor center is also possible, but this is subject to a fee.
Highlights of the hike:
- External Stones
- Upper pond
- Observation pulpit on the Wackelstein
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Accessible by bus and train
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Top sights
Grottenfels
Cliff
Knickenhagen
Peak
Europäisches Wanderkreuz
Attraction
Bärenstein
Peak
Wackelsteinfels
Cliff
Treppenfels
Cliff
Höhenkammer
Archaeological site
Wackelstein
Attraction
Felsengrab
Archaeological site
Turmfels
Cliff
Zangenbachtal
Valley
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Experience this 5.5-km circular trail near Horn-Bad Meinberg, North Rhine-Westphalia. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 34 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and mountain biking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
What are some of the facilities available for Externsteine ?
Free Hermannsweg car park
What is the expected weather this week for Externsteine ?
Expected weather for Externsteine for the next 5 days is:
- Sun 20 September - 15.4 degrees/klart
- Mon 21 September - 14.5 degrees/klart
- Tue 22 September - 19.1 degrees/klart
- Wed 23 September - 14.3 degrees/duggregn
- Thu 24 September - 16.3 degrees/klart
Where is Externsteine located?
Externsteine is a trail located in Teutoburg Forest / Egge Hills Nature Park.
How hard is Externsteine ?
Externsteine is considered an easy hike that covers 5.5 km, with an elevation gain of 175 m. It takes about 1.5–2 hr to complete. Easy trails are typically short, with clearly marked paths and fairly level terrain.
What is the elevation gain for Externsteine ?
Externsteine is considered an easy hike that covers 5.5 km, with an elevation gain of 175 m. It takes about 1.5–2 hr to complete. Easy trails are typically short, with clearly marked paths and fairly level terrain.
Is Externsteine a circular?
Externsteine is a circular trail that covers 5.5 km, with an elevation gain of 175 m. It takes about 1.5–2 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 Externsteine ?
Externsteine is a circular trail that covers 5.5 km, with an elevation gain of 175 m. It takes about 1.5–2 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 Externsteine ?
Dogs may be allowed on Externsteine . Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Externsteine ?
Externsteine is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Externsteine ?
According to trailgoers, Externsteine is usually very busy. Externsteine is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Is mountain biking allowed at Externsteine ?
Mountain biking is allowed on Externsteine in Teutoburg Forest / Egge Hills Nature Park. Double check if the trail is mixed use or MTB-only.
Is Externsteine child-friendly?
Yes, many trailgoers have described Externsteine as good for children and families. Child-friendly trails are typically short, with clearly marked paths and fairly level terrain.
Are there forests at Externsteine ?
Yes, Externsteine is a forest trail in Teutoburg Forest / Egge Hills Nature Park.
Last updated on 19 September 2026 at 09:50 GMT+0