Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen
65.9miLength
10,354ftElevation gain
24hr+Estimated time
Point to point
The diocese of Essen has had its own pilgrimage route since summer 2018. Now you can make a pilgrimage across the Ruhr diocese on over 200 kilometers. Five marked, very different routes lead from the Sauerland, the Rhine, the northern Ruhr area or the south of Essen to the Essen Cathedral - or in the opposite direction.
The section from Meinerzhagen via Bochum to Essen is the longest section of the pilgrimage route and connects the Sauerland in Brandenburg with the Ruhr area. The demanding route runs over a wide variety of paths, especially forest and meadow paths. Sturdy shoes and a good physical condition are essential. Many climbs and descents have to be mastered. Depending on the weather, the paths can be muddy and slippery. Especially between Meinerzhagen and Breckerfeld, rucksack provisions make sense, as there are long sections of the route without refreshment stops. The route has no fixed (daily) stages. Everyone is invited to discover the route as time, interests and their own physical condition allow - and perhaps to embark on an "inner" path in addition to the outer one. The pilgrimage route is marked with a uniform sign in both directions.
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 65.9-mile point-to-point trail near Meinerzhagen, North Rhine-Westphalia. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 30 h 15 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.
What is the expected weather this week for Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen?
Expected weather for Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen for the next 5 days is:
- Sat, September 26 - 70 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 74 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 28 - 74 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 29 - 74 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 30 - 71 degrees/showers
Where is Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen located?
Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen is a trail located in Sauerland-Rothaargebirge Nature Park.
How hard is Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen?
Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen is considered a hard hike that covers 65.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 10,354 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 Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen?
Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen is considered a hard hike that covers 65.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 10,354 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 Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen a point to point trail?
Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen is a point to point trail that covers 65.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 10,354 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 Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen?
Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen is a point to point trail that covers 65.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 10,354 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 Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen?
Dogs may be allowed on Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
Is backpacking allowed at Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen?
Backpacking is allowed on Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen. 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 Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen is partially paved.
Are there forests at Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen?
Yes, Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen is a forest trail in Sauerland-Rothaargebirge Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Pilgerweg Bistum Essen 1: Meinerzhagen - Essen, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on August 29, 2026 at 2:20 am GMT+0