Rothaarsteig

Rothaarsteig is Germany’s ridge-and-watershed long-distance hiking trail running along the Rothaargebirge between North Rhine-Westphalia and Hesse, following the main ridge and crest country from Brilon to Dillenburg. The route is about 154–158 km long and is typically done as a multi-day hike in roughly 8 stages.

Most of the walking stays in the forested Rothaargebirge landscape and connects towns and notable places along the ridge and its valleys, using existing tracks through sparsely populated areas. Expect a trail built on walking networks across ridges, sources, and river valleys rather than a single loop around one landmark.

The marking system uses a white “R” on a red background for the main trail; connecting approaches from the valley use the same symbol with black on a yellow background. This makes it practical for section hiking—pick a town along the way, hike to the next, and rejoin the marked route.

Elevation profile is the main challenge: the route is described as moderately difficult, with around 3,500 m of ascent over the full hike (and comparable day-to-day climbs depending on stage choice). One commonly used framework divides it into daily segments from about 18–26 km, depending on where you start/stop.

Rothaarsteig is strongly associated with the “sources and watersheds” idea: along the route you pass river-source areas such as the Ruhr, Eder, Sieg, and Lahn regions, as well as major ridge points like the Langenberg (highest point in North Rhine-Westphalia) and the Kahler Asten.

As a cultural and historical long-distance path, it passes notable monuments and route features including old sites connected with the Electorate of Cologne (Richtplatz) and sections passing near larger built structures like tunnels and historic transport corridors in the uplands.

For planning logistics, the trail runs through or past multiple towns and is described as reasonably accessible by public transport, with rail or bus networks in nearby places such as Brilon, Willingen, Winterberg, Schmallenberg, Bad Berleburg, Hilchenbach/Erndtebrück areas, and Dillenburg.

Season-wise, spring through early autumn is commonly recommended for this kind of long ridge walk; winter hiking is also possible on some long-distance route listings, but conditions around higher ridges and forests can change quickly.

More information: Official website, Wikipedia, Rothaarsteig