Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg)
259.3kmLength
8,274mElevation gain
24hr+Estimated time
Point-to-point
Varied long-distance hiking trail in the low mountain range, North Rhine-Westphalia/Rhineland-Palatinate.
This varied hiking trail, which was created more than 100 years ago, leads through the idyllic Westerwald, the picturesque hills of the Bergisches Land and the Siebengebirge. Most hikers walk the Cologne Trail in 17 daily stages.
This trail can be reached by train and bus and has many places to stop for refreshments and overnight accommodation.
Highlights of the hike:
- Low mountain landscape
- Westerwald
- Bergisches Land
- Siebengebirge
- Cologne's Königsforst forest
- Wahnbach dam
- Kroppach Switzerland
- Town of Hachenburg
- Castle ruins and other historical buildings
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Discover this 259.3-km point-to-point trail near Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 74 h 32 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
What is the expected weather this week for Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg)?
Expected weather for Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg) for the next 5 days is:
- Fri 25 September - 23.5 degrees/clear
- Sat 26 September - 20 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 27.8 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 28 degrees/clear
- Tue 29 September - 25.1 degrees/clear
Where is Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg) located?
Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg) is a trail located in Bergisches Land Nature Park.
How hard is Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg)?
Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg) is considered a hard hike that covers 259.3 km, with an elevation gain of 8,274 m. It takes about 24 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 Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg)?
Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg) is considered a hard hike that covers 259.3 km, with an elevation gain of 8,274 m. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg) a point-to-point trail?
Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg) is a point to point trail that covers 259.3 km, with an elevation gain of 8,274 m. It takes about 24 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 Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg)?
Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg) is a point to point trail that covers 259.3 km, with an elevation gain of 8,274 m. It takes about 24 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 Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg)?
Dogs may be allowed on Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg). Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
Is backpacking allowed at Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg)?
Backpacking is allowed on Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg). 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 Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg)?
Yes, Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg) is a forest trail in Bergisches Land Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg)?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Kölner Weg (Fernwanderweg), though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on 21 September 2026 at 02:09 GMT+0