WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid
10.4miLength
2,024ftElevation gain
5.5–6hrEstimated time
Point to point
This route is stage 14 of the Westerwaldsteig; it leads from Horhausen to Strauscheid. The journey begins in Horhausen and follows historic miners' paths, passing former tunnel entrances like the Friedrich-Wilhelm-Stollen that testify to the region's iron ore tradition. Hikers reach the legendary Bildeiche oak tree before descending into the romantic Wied valley and the "Lahrer Herrlichkeit." A significant highlight is the turquoise Manroth Lake, a former basalt quarry. The path continues through the Bertenauer Kopf nature reserve, where the volcanic summit offers unique flora and panoramic views. An optional detour leads to the romantically situated Ehrenstein Monastery before the segment ends in Strauscheid.
Overnight stays are available in guesthouses in Horhausen and Strauscheid; wild camping is strictly prohibited. Reliable water is found at the start and end points. Both locations are accessible via regional bus networks (www.vrm-info.de).
For the full route and all stages, see https://www.alltrails.com/lists/westerwaldsteig - Official AllTrails List.
This text has been translated.
Part of a multi-day route
WesterwaldSteig
Top sights
Jungfernbrunnen
Spring
Bertenauer Kopf
Volcano
Wolkenstein
Volcano
Kleiner Krater
Attraction
Wiedtal
Valley
Birkelsberg
Peak
Menzenberg
Peak
Mettelshahner Schweiz
Viewpoint
Campingplatz Düsternau
Campsite
Bildeiche
Attraction
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Explore this 10.4-mile point-to-point trail near Güllesheim, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 15 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
What is the expected weather this week for WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
Expected weather for WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid for the next 5 days is:
- Thu, September 24 - 66 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 73 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 73 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 80 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 28 - 80 degrees/clear
Where is WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid located?
WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid is a trail located in Rhine-Westerwald Nature Park.
How hard is WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid is considered a hard hike that covers 10.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,024 ft. It takes about 5.5–6 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 WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid is considered a hard hike that covers 10.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,024 ft. It takes about 5.5–6 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid a point to point trail?
WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid is a point to point trail that covers 10.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,024 ft. It takes about 5.5–6 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 WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid is a point to point trail that covers 10.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,024 ft. It takes about 5.5–6 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 WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
Dogs may be allowed on WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
According to trailgoers, WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid is usually somewhat busy. WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there scenic views at WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
Yes, Mettelshahner Schweiz is located on WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid.
Is camping allowed at WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
Camping is allowed on WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid in Rhine-Westerwald Nature Park. 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 backpacking allowed at WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
Backpacking is allowed on WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid. 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.
Are there forests at WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
Yes, WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid is a forest trail in Rhine-Westerwald Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at WesterwaldSteig Stage 14: Horhausen - Strauscheid in Rhine-Westerwald Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 22, 2026 at 3:10 am GMT+0