Halde-Haniel
100% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
5.1miLength
541ftElevation gain
2–2.5hrEstimated time
Loop
Varied hike in North Rhine-Westphalia.
The artificial Halde-Haniel mountain range is located exactly on the city border between Bottrop and Oberhausen, on the edge of the Köllnischer Wald forest. The slag heap was created by filling in the overburden, i.e. the layers of rock above the coal, from the Prosper-Daniel coal mine. This created the spiral shape that gives the spoil tip its unmistakable appearance.
At what is now the highest point of the slag heap is the "Totems" installation by Basque artist Agustín Ibarrola, which consists of over one hundred railroad tracks and deals with the apparent contrasts between industrial space and nature. There is also a summit cross on the slag heap, which is part of a Stations of the Cross with 15 stations, and an amphitheater, the "Bergarena", which regularly hosts art and cultural events.
The start is at the parking lot on Kirchhellener Straße.
Highlights of the route:
- Summit cross
- Totems" installation
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Top sights
Halde Haniel
Peak
Top sights
Halde Haniel
Peak
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 5.1-mile loop trail near Oberhausen, North Rhine-Westphalia. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 1 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are February through May.
What is the expected weather this week for Halde-Haniel?
Expected weather for Halde-Haniel for the next 5 days is:
- Sat, September 19 - 68 degrees/showers
- Sun, September 20 - 66 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 21 - 64 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 22 - 72 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 64 degrees/clear
Where is Halde-Haniel located?
Halde-Haniel is a trail located in Hohe Mark Nature Park - Westmünsterland.
How hard is Halde-Haniel?
Halde-Haniel is considered a moderate hike that covers 5.1 mi, with an elevation gain of 541 ft. 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 Halde-Haniel?
Halde-Haniel is considered a moderate hike that covers 5.1 mi, with an elevation gain of 541 ft. It takes about 2–2.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Halde-Haniel a loop?
Halde-Haniel is a loop trail that covers 5.1 mi, with an elevation gain of 541 ft. It takes about 2–2.5 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 Halde-Haniel?
Halde-Haniel is a loop trail that covers 5.1 mi, with an elevation gain of 541 ft. It takes about 2–2.5 hr to complete. Loop trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
When is the best time of year to hike Halde-Haniel?
February to May is the most popular time of year to visit Halde-Haniel.
How busy is Halde-Haniel?
According to trailgoers, Halde-Haniel is usually busy. February to May is the most popular time of year to visit Halde-Haniel.
Last updated on September 17, 2026 at 11:37 pm GMT+0