Vulkanpfad
100% of reviewers say this trail is hard
6.6kmLength
238mElevation gain
2–2.5hrEstimated time
Circular
Official premium hiking trail in the Volcanic Eifel near Kottenheim, Rhineland-Palatinate.
This hiking trail is one of the Rhine-Moselle-Eifel dream trails. It is the shortest and yet one of the most diverse. As the hike embarks on a journey through time and volcanic history, the route follows narrow paths along the crater wall, goes on an adventure hunt at lava caves or trudges through the labyrinth of mighty basalt columns.
The first ascent is rewarded with a fantastic view of the volcanoes of the Eastern Eifel. Along the crater rim, the trail descends to the crater breakthrough and across a lava flow into the Kottenheimer Büden. The path leads back up to the crater rim. Here a magnificent view opens up into a quarry and onto the surrounding volcanoes. After the steep descent, you reach the Kottenheimer Winfeld and finally the Hartborn mineral spring.
Highlights:
- narrow paths along the crater wall
- magnificent views of quarries and former volcanoes
- Kottenheim Winfeld
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Altes Kompressorhaus
Weather shelter
Waenloft-Hütte
Weather shelter
Ettringer Bellberg
Volcano
Büden
Peak
Sprengstoffbunker
Ruins
Hartborn
Spring
Kottenheimer Winfeld
Attraction
Junker Schilling Platz
Picnic site
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Experience this 6.6-km circular trail near Kottenheim, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 59 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and trail running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are April through November. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a lead.
What is the expected weather this week for Vulkanpfad?
Expected weather for Vulkanpfad for the next 5 days is:
- Mon 21 September - 16.5 degrees/clear
- Tue 22 September - 18.5 degrees/clear
- Wed 23 September - 16.1 degrees/drizzle
- Thu 24 September - 18 degrees/clear
- Fri 25 September - 21 degrees/clear
Where is Vulkanpfad located?
Vulkanpfad is a trail located in Kottenheim, Rhineland-Palatine, Germany.
How hard is Vulkanpfad?
Vulkanpfad is considered a moderate hike that covers 6.6 km, with an elevation gain of 238 m. It takes about 2–2.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Vulkanpfad?
Vulkanpfad is considered a moderate hike that covers 6.6 km, with an elevation gain of 238 m. It takes about 2–2.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Vulkanpfad a circular?
Vulkanpfad is a circular trail that covers 6.6 km, with an elevation gain of 238 m. It takes about 2–2.5 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 Vulkanpfad?
Vulkanpfad is a circular trail that covers 6.6 km, with an elevation gain of 238 m. It takes about 2–2.5 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 Vulkanpfad?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Vulkanpfad, but must remain on a lead.
When is the best time of year to hike Vulkanpfad?
April to November is the most popular time of year to visit Vulkanpfad.
How busy is Vulkanpfad?
According to trailgoers, Vulkanpfad is usually busy. April to November is the most popular time of year to visit Vulkanpfad.
Is there running at Vulkanpfad?
Yes, trailgoers have said that Vulkanpfad is good for running. This trail covers 6.6 km, with an elevation gain of 238 m.
Is Vulkanpfad child-friendly?
Yes, many trailgoers have described Vulkanpfad as good for children and families. Child-friendly trails are typically short, with clearly marked paths and fairly level terrain.
Are there forests at Vulkanpfad?
Yes, Vulkanpfad is a forest trail.
Are there wildflowers at Vulkanpfad?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Vulkanpfad, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on 21 September 2026 at 02:20 GMT+0