Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop
67% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
7.8miLength
1,315ftElevation gain
3.5–4hrEstimated time
Loop
Popular loop trail in the Sauerland-Rothaargebirge nature park, North Rhine-Westphalia.
This is a beautiful loop trail from Winterberg. The route leads around the 696 m high Ruhrkopf and the 668 m high Hengstkopf. You also pass the source of the Ruhr. Since the hike starts right at the train station, you can easily travel there by public transport.
Highlights of the hike:
- Ruhrkopf
- Hengstkopf
- Source of the Ruhr
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Ruhrquelle
Spring
Ruhrtal
Valley
Hengstkopf
Peak
Halfersürenberg
Peak
Dumel
Peak
Ruhrquelle
Attraction
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 7.8-mile loop trail near Winterberg, North Rhine-Westphalia. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 37 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and trail running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are April through November. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
What is the expected weather this week for Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop?
Expected weather for Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop for the next 5 days is:
- Wed, September 23 - 53 degrees/drizzle
- Thu, September 24 - 59 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 65 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 63 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 70 degrees/clear
Where is Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop located?
Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop is a trail located in Sauerland-Rothaargebirge Nature Park.
How hard is Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop?
Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop is considered a moderate hike that covers 7.8 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,315 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop?
Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop is considered a moderate hike that covers 7.8 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,315 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop a loop?
Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop is a loop trail that covers 7.8 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,315 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 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 Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop?
Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop is a loop trail that covers 7.8 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,315 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 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 Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop. Double check regulations about going off leash.
When is the best time of year to hike Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop?
April to November is the most popular time of year to visit Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop.
How busy is Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop?
According to trailgoers, Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop is usually somewhat busy. April to November is the most popular time of year to visit Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop.
Is there running at Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop?
Yes, trailgoers have said that Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop is good for running. This trail covers 7.8 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,315 ft.
Are there wildflowers at Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Ruhrkopf - Hengstkopf Loop in Sauerland-Rothaargebirge Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 22, 2026 at 1:26 pm GMT+0