RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede
100% of reviewers say this trail is hard
40.9kmLength
763mElevation gain
11–12hrEstimated time
Point-to-point
First stage of the Ruhr Valley Cycle Route in Sauerland, North Rhine-Westphalia.
The first day tour of the Ruhr Valley Cycle Route, which has been awarded four stars by the ADFC, leads from the source of the Ruhr near Winterberg via Olsberg to Meschede. Along the way, the beautifully rolling hills of the Sauerland and marvellous views of the surrounding area can be enjoyed. There are restaurants to stop off at in the small villages.
There are car parks at the starting point and the "Winterberg (Westf.)" railway station for those travelling by public transport.
Highlights:
- St James' Church in Winterberg
- Winterberg's historic old town centre
- St George's ski jump
- Bruchhauser Stones Olsberg
- Benedictine Abbey Meschede
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Ruhrquelle
Spring
Ruhrtal
Valley
Hengstkopf
Peak
Ruhrkopf
Peak
Hillerk
Peak
Stausee Olsberg
Reservoir
Eiskeller
Attraction
Schloss Schellenstein
Castle
Neger
River
Wohnmobilstellplatz Aqua Olsberg
Caravan site
Ruhrquelle
Attraction
Voßmeskopf
Peak
Kreuzberg
Peak
Haven
Peak
DPSG Brilon
Campsite
Rastplatz Gepketal
Picnic site
Wasserrad
Attraction
Schieferbergbau Nuttlar
Attraction
Gemeinschaftsgarten Mescheder Bürgertreff
Garden
Rosengarten
Garden
Klostergarten
Garden
Top sights
Ruhrquelle
Spring
Ruhrtal
Valley
Hengstkopf
Peak
Ruhrkopf
Peak
Hillerk
Peak
Stausee Olsberg
Reservoir
Eiskeller
Attraction
Schloss Schellenstein
Castle
Neger
River
Wohnmobilstellplatz Aqua Olsberg
Caravan site
Ruhrquelle
Attraction
Voßmeskopf
Peak
Kreuzberg
Peak
Haven
Peak
DPSG Brilon
Campsite
Rastplatz Gepketal
Picnic site
Wasserrad
Attraction
Schieferbergbau Nuttlar
Attraction
Gemeinschaftsgarten Mescheder Bürgertreff
Garden
Rosengarten
Garden
Klostergarten
Garden
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Explore this 40.9-km point-to-point trail near Winterberg, North Rhine-Westphalia. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 10 h 33 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and bike touring, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are April through October.
What is the expected weather this week for RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede?
Expected weather for RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede for the next 5 days is:
- Sat 19 September - 13.7 degrees/showers
- Sun 20 September - 12.9 degrees/clear
- Mon 21 September - 12.9 degrees/clear
- Tue 22 September - 14.7 degrees/clear
- Wed 23 September - 14.6 degrees/clear
Where is RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede located?
RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede is a trail located in Sauerland-Rothaargebirge Nature Park.
How hard is RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede?
RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede is considered a moderate hike that covers 40.9 km, with an elevation gain of 763 m. It takes about 11–12 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede?
RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede is considered a moderate hike that covers 40.9 km, with an elevation gain of 763 m. It takes about 11–12 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede a point-to-point trail?
RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede is a point to point trail that covers 40.9 km, with an elevation gain of 763 m. It takes about 11–12 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 RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede?
RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede is a point to point trail that covers 40.9 km, with an elevation gain of 763 m. It takes about 11–12 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 RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede?
Dogs may be allowed on RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede.
How busy is RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede?
According to trailgoers, RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede is usually busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede.
Are there rivers at RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede?
Yes, RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede is near Neger.
Is camping allowed at RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede?
Camping is allowed on RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede in Sauerland-Rothaargebirge Nature Park. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Is backpacking allowed at RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede?
Backpacking is allowed on RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede. 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.
Is RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede is partially paved.
Are there forests at RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede?
Yes, RuhrtalRadweg Etappe 1: Winterberg - Meschede is a forest trail in Sauerland-Rothaargebirge Nature Park.
Last updated on 17 September 2026 at 04:33 GMT+0