Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam
67% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
10.3miLength
1,761ftElevation gain
5–5.5hrEstimated time
Loop
Scenic loop twice over the Kermeter and to the Urftsee in the Eifel National Park.
It starts at the hiking car park in Büdenbach. The mountainous hike leads almost exclusively through shady forests, with long ascents and descents, which are always worthwhile because of the great views. This is especially true on summer days, when the glittering lakes and the vibrant green of the forest complement each other beautifully. It goes over the forest-covered ridge of Kermeter and then over its western foothills. In some places the path is quite steep. Sturdy shoes, reasonable physical condition and some provisions are advisable. At the Urfttalsperre there is a nice rest stop.
Highlights:
- Urft Dam
- Hirschley viewpoint
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Hirschley
Picnic site
Obersee
Reservoir
Urftsee
Reservoir
Hohenbach
Spring
Rur Reservoir
Reservoir
Eschbach
Spring
361
Ruins
Urftsee Staumauer
Attraction
Wildbretshügel
Peak
Erlebnisstation 8 Maschinist im Jugendstilkraftwerk Heimbach
Attraction
Tonsberg
Peak
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
Beat the crowds with weekly and monthly trail activity data from our community
Adventure starts in the app
Offline maps, navigation, and conditions — all in one place
Top trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Explore this 10.3-mile loop trail near Heimbach, North Rhine-Westphalia. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 48 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 March through November.
What are some of the facilities available for Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam?
The Büdenbach car park is at the starting point.
What is the expected weather this week for Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam?
Expected weather for Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam for the next 5 days is:
- Thu, September 24 - 71 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 76 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 77 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 78 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 28 - 83 degrees/clear
Where is Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam located?
Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam is a trail located in Eifel National Park.
How hard is Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam?
Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam is considered a hard hike that covers 10.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,761 ft. It takes about 5–5.5 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 Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam?
Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam is considered a hard hike that covers 10.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,761 ft. It takes about 5–5.5 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam a loop?
Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam is a loop trail that covers 10.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,761 ft. It takes about 5–5.5 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 Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam?
Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam is a loop trail that covers 10.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,761 ft. It takes about 5–5.5 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 Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam?
Dogs may be allowed on Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam?
March to November is the most popular time of year to visit Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam.
How busy is Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam?
According to trailgoers, Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam is usually busy. March to November is the most popular time of year to visit Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam.
Are there forests at Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam?
Yes, Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam is a forest trail in Eifel National Park.
Are there wildflowers at Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Schwammenauel - Urfttal Dam in Eifel National Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 24, 2026 at 8:59 am GMT+0