Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim
8.5miLength
652ftElevation gain
3–3.5hrEstimated time
Point to point
Fifth section of the Cologne Trail in North Rhine-Westphalia.
The starting point for this section is the Merkenich stop. It runs along the Frühlinger lake - here there is a rowing island with a bistro and a bathing area for cooling off in summer. The route then runs along the Rhine via Niel and on to Mühlheim.
There are refreshment stops along the way.
Highlights:
- Frühlinger lake with bathing area
- View of the Rhine floodplains
- Fort I
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Fühlinger See
Lake
Blackfoot Beach
Beach
Top sights
Fühlinger See
Lake
Blackfoot Beach
Beach
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
Beat the crowds with weekly and monthly trail activity data from our communityTop trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Discover this 8.5-mile point-to-point trail near Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 5 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 Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim?
Expected weather for Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim for the next 5 days is:
- Wed, September 23 - 64 degrees/drizzle
- Thu, September 24 - 68 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 74 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 73 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 81 degrees/clear
Where is Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim located?
Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is a trail located in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
How hard is Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim?
Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 652 ft. It takes about 3–3.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim?
Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 652 ft. It takes about 3–3.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim a point to point trail?
Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is a point to point trail that covers 8.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 652 ft. It takes about 3–3.5 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 Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim?
Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is a point to point trail that covers 8.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 652 ft. It takes about 3–3.5 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 Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim?
Dogs may be allowed on Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim?
Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim?
According to trailgoers, Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is usually busy. Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there lakes at Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim?
Yes, Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is near Fühlinger See.
Are there beaches at Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim?
Yes, Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is near Blackfoot Beach.
Is backpacking allowed at Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim?
Backpacking is allowed on Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim. 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 Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is partially paved.
Are there forests at Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim?
Yes, Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is a forest trail.
Is Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim a city walk?
Yes, Kölnpfad Stage 5: Merkenich - Mühlheim is a city walk in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
Last updated on September 23, 2026 at 4:19 am GMT+0