Wittekindsweg
59.6miLength
9,176ftElevation gain
24hr+Estimated time
Point to point
Scenic long-distance hiking trail in the Wiehengebirge, Lower Saxony/North Rhine-Westphalia.
The Wittekindsweg, which is part of the European long-distance hiking trail E11, is a real classic among the hiking trails in north-west Germany. It owes its name to the Saxon Duke Wittekind, Charlemagne's greatest adversary.
The starting point is the historic market in Osnabrück, from where the trail heads eastwards over the wooded ridge of the Wiehengebirge mountain range to the valley incision at Porta Westfalica. Along the way, there is much to discover in addition to the beautiful countryside: the Wittekindsburg castle in Nettetal, Rulle Abbey, the Neolithic megalithic tombs "Teufels Backofen" and "Teufels Backtrog" in Vehrte, dinosaur tracks in Barkhausen and the TERRA.vita Nature and Geopark.
Highlights of the hike:
- Rulle pilgrimage church
- Barkhausen dinosaur tracks
- Wittekindsburg Castle
- Several megalithic tombs
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Discover this 59.6-mile point-to-point trail near Osnabrück, Lower Saxony. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 26 h 38 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
What is the expected weather this week for Wittekindsweg?
Expected weather for Wittekindsweg for the next 5 days is:
- Sun, September 20 - 64 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 21 - 62 degrees/drizzle
- Tue, September 22 - 69 degrees/foggy
- Wed, September 23 - 62 degrees/clear
- Thu, September 24 - 65 degrees/clear
Where is Wittekindsweg located?
Wittekindsweg is a trail located in Nature and Geopark TERRA.vita.
How hard is Wittekindsweg?
Wittekindsweg is considered a hard hike that covers 59.6 mi, with an elevation gain of 9,176 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 Wittekindsweg?
Wittekindsweg is considered a hard hike that covers 59.6 mi, with an elevation gain of 9,176 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 Wittekindsweg a point to point trail?
Wittekindsweg is a point to point trail that covers 59.6 mi, with an elevation gain of 9,176 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 Wittekindsweg?
Wittekindsweg is a point to point trail that covers 59.6 mi, with an elevation gain of 9,176 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 Wittekindsweg?
Dogs may be allowed on Wittekindsweg. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Wittekindsweg?
Wittekindsweg is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Wittekindsweg?
According to trailgoers, Wittekindsweg is usually busy. Wittekindsweg is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Is backpacking allowed at Wittekindsweg?
Backpacking is allowed on Wittekindsweg. 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 Wittekindsweg paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Wittekindsweg is partially paved.
Are there forests at Wittekindsweg?
Yes, Wittekindsweg is a forest trail in Nature and Geopark TERRA.vita.
Are there wildflowers at Wittekindsweg?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Wittekindsweg, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Wittekindsweg?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Wittekindsweg in Nature and Geopark TERRA.vita. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 14, 2026 at 12:38 am GMT+0