New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit
75% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
8.9miLength
1,824ftElevation gain
4.5–5hrEstimated time
Out & back
Popular hike in the Harz National Park, Lower Saxony.
This route in the Harz National Park begins west of the Brocken. The Schierker Straße leads to a rest area with benches before turning left into Grenzweg am Bodesprung. At the rest area (Stichwortfahnen at the Goethe train station) the New Goethe Trail begins. The spot is the exact border between Lower Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt and a former train station. There is places to stop for refreshments at the Brocken and wonderful views can be enjoyed. Expect snow between November and March.
Highlights of the hike:
- Brocken
- beautiful views
- Brockenbahn
- bogs
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Aussichtsplattform über der Brockenherberge
Viewpoint
Brockenuhr
Attraction
Knochenbrecherkurve
Weather shelter
Schutzhütte Dreieckiger Pfahl
Weather shelter
Brocken
Peak
Gipfelstein Brocken
Attraction
Bodesprung
Spring
Untere Hirschhörner
Peak
Obere Hirschhörner
Peak
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Discover this 8.9-mile out-and-back trail near Altenau, Lower Saxony. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 28 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. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
What is the expected weather this week for New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit?
Expected weather for New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit for the next 5 days is:
- Wed, September 23 - 51 degrees/showers
- Thu, September 24 - 54 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 59 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 63 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 69 degrees/clear
Where is New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit located?
New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit is a trail located in Harz National Park.
How hard is New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit?
New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,824 ft. 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 New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit?
New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,824 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit an out and back trail?
New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit is an out-and-back trail that covers 8.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,824 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Out-and-back trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow the route out to a specific point, and then retrace your steps to return to the start. The length of the trail refers to the entire route — traveling out and back on this route covers 8.9 mi.
How long is New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit?
New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit is an out-and-back trail that covers 8.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,824 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Out-and-back trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow the route out to a specific point, and then retrace your steps to return to the start. The length of the trail refers to the entire route — traveling out and back on this route covers 8.9 mi.
Are dogs allowed on New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit?
Yes, dogs are allowed on New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit, but must remain on a leash.
When is the best time of year to hike New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit?
New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit?
According to trailgoers, New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit is usually very busy. New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there scenic views at New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit?
Yes, Aussichtsplattform über der Brockenherberge is located on New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit.
Is New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit is partially paved.
Are there forests at New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit?
Yes, New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit is a forest trail in Harz National Park.
Are there wildflowers at New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at New Goethe Trail to the Brocken Summit in Harz National Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 23, 2026 at 1:34 am GMT+0