Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail
62.7miLength
11,617ftElevation gain
24hr+Estimated time
Point to point
Osterode to Thale via the Harzer Hexen-Stieg offers a mystical journey through the heart of the Harz National Park. This long-distance hiking route traverses a diverse landscape of deep spruce forests, misty moors and the dramatic granite cliffs of the Bodetal Gorge. The terrain consists of a mixture of wide forest paths, narrow rocky trails and historic cobblestone sections. A particular highlight is the ascent to the Brocken 1,141m, the highest peak in northern Germany, known for its unpredictable alpine climate and historic role as a listening post during the Cold War. The trail also passes the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Upper Harz Water Management, a complex system of ponds and ditches dating back to the 16th century. The hike ends in Thale, near the legendary Hexentanzplatz, where, according to local folklore, the witches gather on Walpurgis Night. Covering the entire distance requires a good level of fitness due to the altitude and the capricious weather conditions on the Brocken.
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Check out this 62.7-mile point-to-point trail near Osterode am Harz, Lower Saxony. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 30 h 10 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
What is the expected weather this week for Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail?
Expected weather for Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail for the next 5 days is:
- Sat, September 19 - 61 degrees/showers
- Sun, September 20 - 62 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 21 - 61 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 22 - 65 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 67 degrees/clear
Where is Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail located?
Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail is a trail located in Harz National Park.
How hard is Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail?
Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail is considered a hard hike that covers 62.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 11,617 ft. It takes about 24 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 Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail?
Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail is considered a hard hike that covers 62.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 11,617 ft. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail a point to point trail?
Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail is a point to point trail that covers 62.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 11,617 ft. It takes about 24 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 Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail?
Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail is a point to point trail that covers 62.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 11,617 ft. It takes about 24 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 Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail, but must remain on a leash.
Is camping allowed at Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail?
Camping is allowed on Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail in Harz National 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 Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail?
Backpacking is allowed on Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail. 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.
Are there forests at Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail?
Yes, Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail is a forest trail in Harz National Park.
Are there wildflowers at Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Osterode to Thale via Harz Witches' Trail in Harz National Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 17, 2026 at 1:40 am GMT+0