Königsforst Circuit
50% of reviewers say this trail is easy
19.3kmLength
450mElevation gain
5–5.5hrEstimated time
Circular
The famous circuit in the Königsforst near Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia.
The Königsforst is a nature reserve, FFH, and bird sanctuary east of Cologne. The Königsforst, part of the Bergische Heideterrasse, has been a popular excursion destination for people living in Cologne for a long time - archbishops and nobles have already hiked here.
This route starts at the forest's southwestern entrance, runs along Steinbruchsweg, and then turns onto Rathausen-Forsbachweg. With a bit of luck, kingfishers, gray woodpeckers, red kites, and other bird species protected here can be spotted on the site.
Highlights:
- Game Reserve of the King's Forest
- rare species of birds
- Close to town
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Großer Steinberg
Peak
Kettners Weiher
Lake
Tütberg
Peak
Mergelsberg
Peak
Wassertretstelle
Attraction
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
Beat the crowds with weekly and monthly trail activity data from our community
Adventure starts in the app
Offline maps, navigation, and conditions — all in one place
Top trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 19.3-km circular trail near Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 58 min to complete. This is a very popular area for 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 Königsforst Circuit?
Expected weather for Königsforst Circuit for the next 5 days is:
- Thu 24 September - 19.9 degrees/clear
- Fri 25 September - 20.5 degrees/clear
- Sat 26 September - 26.7 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 22.6 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 27.2 degrees/foggy
Where is Königsforst Circuit located?
Königsforst Circuit is a trail located in Bergisches Land Nature Park.
How hard is Königsforst Circuit?
Königsforst Circuit is considered a hard hike that covers 19.3 km, with an elevation gain of 450 m. It takes about 5–5.5 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 Königsforst Circuit?
Königsforst Circuit is considered a hard hike that covers 19.3 km, with an elevation gain of 450 m. It takes about 5–5.5 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Königsforst Circuit a circular?
Königsforst Circuit is a circular trail that covers 19.3 km, with an elevation gain of 450 m. It takes about 5–5.5 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 Königsforst Circuit?
Königsforst Circuit is a circular trail that covers 19.3 km, with an elevation gain of 450 m. It takes about 5–5.5 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 Königsforst Circuit?
Dogs may be allowed on Königsforst Circuit. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Königsforst Circuit?
Königsforst Circuit is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Königsforst Circuit?
According to trailgoers, Königsforst Circuit is usually busy. Königsforst Circuit is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there lakes at Königsforst Circuit?
Yes, Königsforst Circuit is near Kettners Weiher.
Are there forests at Königsforst Circuit?
Yes, Königsforst Circuit is a forest trail in Bergisches Land Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Königsforst Circuit?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Königsforst Circuit, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Königsforst Circuit?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Königsforst Circuit in Bergisches Land Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 24 September 2026 at 00:45 GMT+0