Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken
100% of reviewers say this trail is hard
17.3miLength
3,254ftElevation gain
8.5–9.5hrEstimated time
Loop
Popular loop in the Harz National Park, Lower Saxony
A great loop through the Harz Mountains starting in Torfhaus (when arriving by bus or train: "Torfhaus" stop). From here, the path leads through the breathtaking low mountain range landscape characterized by dense forests and mystical moors, first in the direction of Schierke and from there on to the legendary Brocken summit. In addition to idyllic nature, fantastic panoramic views are not neglected on this hike. Sturdy shoes and a good level of fitness are highly recommended due to the distance, the altitude difference to be overcome and the natural paths. There are places to stop for refreshments in Schierke and on the Brocken, and one can also stay overnight in Schierke.
Highlights of the hike:
- Torfhaus
- Large Torfhausmoor with a view of the Brocken
- Hiking trail along the Kalten Bode
- Brockenfeld
- Kurpark and rock garden Schierke
- Heinrichshöhenmoor
- Panoramic views from the summit of the Brocken
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Aussichtsplattform über der Brockenherberge
Viewpoint
Brockenuhr
Attraction
Eckersprung
Spring
Bohlenstieg Torfhausmoor mit Brockenblick
Attraction
Schutzhütte Eckersprung
Weather shelter
Knochenbrecherkurve
Weather shelter
Kesselklippe
Peak
Schutzhütte Dreieckiger Pfahl
Weather shelter
Brocken
Peak
Gipfelstein Brocken
Attraction
Quitschenberg
Peak
Hopfensäcke
Peak
Vaupels Klippe
Peak
Brockenblick
Viewpoint
Quitschenberg (Westkuppe)
Peak
Untere Hirschhörner
Peak
Eckerloch
Hut
Magdbett
Peak
Obere Hirschhörner
Peak
Eulenbrunnen
Spring
Schluftkopf
Peak
Top sights
Aussichtsplattform über der Brockenherberge
Viewpoint
Brockenuhr
Attraction
Eckersprung
Spring
Bohlenstieg Torfhausmoor mit Brockenblick
Attraction
Schutzhütte Eckersprung
Weather shelter
Knochenbrecherkurve
Weather shelter
Kesselklippe
Peak
Schutzhütte Dreieckiger Pfahl
Weather shelter
Brocken
Peak
Gipfelstein Brocken
Attraction
Quitschenberg
Peak
Hopfensäcke
Peak
Vaupels Klippe
Peak
Brockenblick
Viewpoint
Quitschenberg (Westkuppe)
Peak
Untere Hirschhörner
Peak
Eckerloch
Hut
Magdbett
Peak
Obere Hirschhörner
Peak
Eulenbrunnen
Spring
Schluftkopf
Peak
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Try this 17.3-mile loop trail near Altenau, Lower Saxony. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 8 h 22 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking 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 Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken?
Expected weather for Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken for the next 5 days is:
- Mon, September 21 - 58 degrees/drizzle
- Tue, September 22 - 62 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 54 degrees/showers
- Thu, September 24 - 59 degrees/foggy
- Fri, September 25 - 68 degrees/clear
Where is Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken located?
Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken is a trail located in Harz National Park.
How hard is Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken?
Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken is considered a hard hike that covers 17.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,254 ft. It takes about 8.5–9.5 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 Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken?
Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken is considered a hard hike that covers 17.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,254 ft. It takes about 8.5–9.5 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken a loop?
Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken is a loop trail that covers 17.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,254 ft. It takes about 8.5–9.5 hr to complete. Loop trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
How long is Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken?
Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken is a loop trail that covers 17.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,254 ft. It takes about 8.5–9.5 hr to complete. Loop trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
Are dogs allowed on Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken, but must remain on a leash.
Are there scenic views at Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken features multiple scenic viewpoints. Some of the viewpoints include Aussichtsplattform über der Brockenherberge and Brockenblick.
Is backpacking allowed at Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken?
Backpacking is allowed on Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken. 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 Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken is partially paved.
Are there forests at Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken?
Yes, Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken is a forest trail in Harz National Park.
Are there wildflowers at Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Torfhaus - Schierke - Brocken, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on September 21, 2026 at 10:31 pm GMT+0