Neandertal - Short Circular
72% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
9.5kmLength
237mElevation gain
2.5–3hrEstimated time
Circular
Educational, near-natural circular hiking trail in the Bergisches Land, North Rhine-Westphalia.
Aurochs, tarpans, bison, primeval horses - all rare animals that became extinct in Europe hundreds of years ago. Here in the Neanderthal Ice Age Game Reserve, which is managed by the district of Mettmann, all these animals can be found on an area of more than 23 hectares.
Highlights of the hike:
- Neanderthal Museum
- Rare animal species
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Neander Valley;Neandertal Valley
Valley
Tarpane
Attraction
Kalkofen Huppertsbracken
Attraction
Auerochsen
Attraction
Die NeanderBiene
Hut
Kretzberg
Peak
Wisent
Attraction
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 9.5-km circular trail near Erkrath, North Rhine-Westphalia. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 30 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and trail running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a lead.
What is the expected weather this week for Neandertal - Short Circular?
Expected weather for Neandertal - Short Circular for the next 5 days is:
- Thu 24 September - 19.1 degrees/clear
- Fri 25 September - 22.5 degrees/clear
- Sat 26 September - 19.4 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 26.1 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 26.9 degrees/clear
Where is Neandertal - Short Circular located?
Neandertal - Short Circular is a trail located in Erkrath, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
How hard is Neandertal - Short Circular?
Neandertal - Short Circular is considered a moderate hike that covers 9.5 km, with an elevation gain of 237 m. It takes about 2.5–3 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Neandertal - Short Circular?
Neandertal - Short Circular is considered a moderate hike that covers 9.5 km, with an elevation gain of 237 m. It takes about 2.5–3 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Neandertal - Short Circular a circular?
Neandertal - Short Circular is a circular trail that covers 9.5 km, with an elevation gain of 237 m. It takes about 2.5–3 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 Neandertal - Short Circular?
Neandertal - Short Circular is a circular trail that covers 9.5 km, with an elevation gain of 237 m. It takes about 2.5–3 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 Neandertal - Short Circular?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Neandertal - Short Circular, but must remain on a lead.
When is the best time of year to hike Neandertal - Short Circular?
Neandertal - Short Circular is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Neandertal - Short Circular?
According to trailgoers, Neandertal - Short Circular is usually very busy. Neandertal - Short Circular is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Is there running at Neandertal - Short Circular?
Yes, trailgoers have said that Neandertal - Short Circular is good for running. This trail covers 9.5 km, with an elevation gain of 237 m.
Are there forests at Neandertal - Short Circular?
Yes, Neandertal - Short Circular is a forest trail.
Are there wildflowers at Neandertal - Short Circular?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Neandertal - Short Circular, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Neandertal - Short Circular?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Neandertal - Short Circular. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 24 September 2026 at 04:18 GMT+0