Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg
100% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
16.1kmLength
420mElevation gain
4.5–5hrEstimated time
Point-to-point
Seventh natural stage of the Cologne Trail in North Rhine-Westphalia.
This is probably the greenest of the 11 stages of the Cologne Trail!
The starting point is the "Thielenbruch" tram stop. It goes through the shady Gierather Forest and to the Bensberg Lake with its barbecue hut. There are also refreshment stops nearby. The route continues along the small Hasselbach stream and to the "Cox" mine, which used to be a dolomite mine. Today, the protected area provides a habitat for rare animals and plants. The destination of this stage is Bensberg. There is a lot to discover here too - the castle and a mining museum as well as the beautiful old town centre with places to stop for refreshments are waiting to be explored.
Highlights of the route:
- Tram museum
- Lake Bensberg
- Former "Cox" dolomite mine
- Milchborntal outdoor pool
- Bensberg Castle
- Bergisches Museum for Mining
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Schloss Bensberg
Castle
Haus Lerbach
Castle
Motte Saaler Mühle
Archaeological site
zur Stadt Köln
Viewpoint
Bensberger See
Lake
Grillhütte Saaler Mühle
Picnic site
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Get to know this 16.1-km point-to-point trail near Bergisch Gladbach, North Rhine-Westphalia. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 8 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
What is the expected weather this week for Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg?
Expected weather for Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg for the next 5 days is:
- Fri 25 September - 22.5 degrees/clear
- Sat 26 September - 24.4 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 24.8 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 26.6 degrees/clear
- Tue 29 September - 24.1 degrees/clear
Where is Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg located?
Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg is a trail located in Bergisches Land Nature Park.
How hard is Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg?
Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg is considered a moderate hike that covers 16.1 km, with an elevation gain of 420 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 Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg?
Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg is considered a moderate hike that covers 16.1 km, with an elevation gain of 420 m. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg a point-to-point trail?
Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg is a point to point trail that covers 16.1 km, with an elevation gain of 420 m. It takes about 4.5–5 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 Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg?
Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg is a point to point trail that covers 16.1 km, with an elevation gain of 420 m. It takes about 4.5–5 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 Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg?
Dogs may be allowed on Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg?
Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg?
According to trailgoers, Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg is usually busy. Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there scenic views at Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg?
Yes, zur Stadt Köln is located on Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg.
Are there lakes at Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg?
Yes, Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg is near Bensberger See.
Is backpacking allowed at Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg?
Backpacking is allowed on Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - 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 Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg?
Yes, Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg is a forest trail in Bergisches Land Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Kölnpfad Stage 8: Thielenbruch - Bensberg, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on 25 September 2026 at 00:18 GMT+0