Attractions and Places To See in Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz - Top 11
Best attractions and places to see in Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz include natural monuments, diverse forests, and historical sites within the Harz Mountains. This protected area, encompassing Jermerstein and Kalbetal, is part of the larger Harz National Park. Visitors can explore unique rock formations, extensive forest communities, and a landscape shaped by both nature and historical mining. The region offers a variety of points of interest for those interested in geology, nature, and cultural heritage.
Best attractions and places to see in Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz
- The most popular attractions is Maiden Crag, a natural monument characterized by impressive quartzite rock formations. From its cliffs, visitors can enjoy expansive views of Wurmberg, Achtermann, and Brocken.
- Another must-see spot is Kalbetal climb to Torfhaus, a climb that offers a scenically attractive route up to Torfhaus. This asphalted path is free from car traffic and features gradients of up to 12%.
- Visitors also love Singletrack to Kellwasser Valley, a challenging trail. This singletrack provides a connection to the Magdeburger Weg and requires advanced driving skills in some sections.
- Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz is known for its natural monuments, diverse trails, and scenic viewpoints. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from rock formations to forest paths.
- The attractions in Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 1600 upvotes and 865 photos shared.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Maiden Crag
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Singletrack to Kellwasser Valley
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Kalbetal climb to Torfhaus
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
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United Kids Foundation Forest – Special Stamp Site Kellwasser
Highlight • Forest
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Jermerstein Cliffs Trail S3
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Tips from the Community
With no traffic and the fantastic scenery on both sides, this is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful climbs in the Harz Mountains. The asphalt is mostly smooth and more than manageable. The climb is rather uneven. While the first two kilometers in particular are almost flat, the following ones settle at 7-9%. You'll have to negotiate smaller climbs up to 14% (according to Wahoo). The last kilometer to Torfhaus is unfortunately on the main road, but it's a two-lane highway.
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A sensationally beautiful piece! No traffic, no frills!
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Requires attention and concentration.
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Special stamp office of the Harz hiking badge
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If you want to ride your racing bike via Altenau to Torfhaus, you should definitely choose the continuous, perfectly paved forest road through the Kalbetal. At least currently, it is free of any dirt. The best way to come from Clausthal is via Altenauer Straße (also in perfect condition), which takes you to the entrance to Altenau. Turn left towards the Okertalsperre and after a few hundred meters turn right over the dam. From there, there is no more car traffic. After about 3 km, turn right into the Kalbetal. A fantastic climb. You are alone with yourself and the beautiful nature. Moderate at first and up to 14% at the end. It's a shame that the path ends at the busy B4 and so the last km to Torfhaus is not so nice, but you have to accept that. For me, this is clearly the most beautiful climb to Torfhaus that you can easily ride on a racing bike.
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Great to drive, but the S3 section afterwards is tough
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Jupp, the constriction is certainly more than S3, the rest much less. It's still fun. The small Shark-Fin-Jumpstone on the left side of the path is also really bucking 😁 (unfortunately not so good on the photo 🤷🏼♀️ Petspektive🤦🏼♀️)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz?
The Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz is rich in natural beauty. You can discover impressive quartzite rock formations at Maiden Crag, offering expansive views of Wurmberg, Achtermann, and Brocken. The area also features extensive beech-spruce forests, especially in the Kalbetal section, and is part of the larger Harz National Park, known for its diverse low mountain range landscape, ancient moors, and flowing watercourses.
Are there challenging trails for experienced cyclists or hikers?
Yes, for experienced cyclists, the Singletrack to Kellwasser Valley offers a challenging S1 trail connecting to the Magdeburger Weg, requiring advanced riding skills in some sections. Hikers can also find challenging routes, such as the Jermerstein Cliffs Trail S3, which provides a fun and tricky experience with great viewpoints.
What kind of cycling routes are available in the area?
The region offers a variety of cycling experiences. You can find dedicated MTB Trails in Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz, including routes to Brocken Summit and around Oderteich Lake. For those who prefer less technical terrain, there are also Gravel biking routes, such as the 'View of the Brocken – Neuer Goetheweg loop from Torfhaus'.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities?
Families can enjoy the United Kids Foundation Forest – Special Stamp Site Kellwasser, which is a forest area with a nice initiative to support nature and a special stamp for the Harz hiking pin. The broader Harz National Park also offers accessible paths and visitor centers like the Torfhaus National Park Visitor Centre, which provides engaging exhibitions suitable for all ages.
What historical sites or cultural heritage can I discover in the Oberharz region?
Beyond the immediate nature reserve, the broader Oberharz region is rich in history. It's home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Rammelsberg Mine, Goslar Old Town and Upper Harz Water Management'. The Upper Harz Water Management system, with its 107 historic ponds and 310 kilometers of ditches, showcases an ingenious historical engineering feat for mining operations. You can also explore historic mining sites like the Samson silver ore mine in Sankt Andreasberg.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz?
For breathtaking views, head to Maiden Crag, where you can see Wurmberg, Achtermann, and Brocken on clear days. The Jermerstein Cliffs Trail S3 also offers excellent viewpoints amidst its challenging terrain.
What is the best way to reach Torfhaus from the Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz area?
A scenic and car-free way to reach Torfhaus is via the Kalbetal climb to Torfhaus. This asphalted path features gradients of up to 12% and offers a beautiful environment, making it a popular route for cyclists.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting in the area?
The Harz National Park, which encompasses the Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz, provides protected habitats for a variety of animals. Keep an eye out for the 'Big Five' of the Oberharz: capercaillie, lynx, red deer, raccoon, and wildcat. The diverse forests and moors create ideal conditions for observing local flora and fauna.
What are the options for hiking near the attractions?
There are numerous hiking opportunities. You can find various waterfall hikes in Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz, such as the 'Maiden Crag – Nabentaler Waterfall loop from Torfhaus'. The region also features trails like the Heinrich Heine Trail in the romantic Ilsetal Valley, which follows the Ilse river with its cascades.
What is the significance of the Jermerstein?
The Jermerstein, located in the southern part of the reserve, is significant for its impressive quartzite rock formations that date back to the Devonian period. It offers stunning panoramic views and is surrounded by near-natural beech-spruce forests, with unique sparse vegetation directly on the cliffs.
What is the best time to visit Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz?
The Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for exploring the trails and enjoying the natural landscapes. In winter, the area transforms into a hub for winter sports, including skiing, cross-country skiing, and winter hiking.
Are there any unique geological features to see?
Yes, the region is part of the UNESCO Geopark Harz - Braunschweiger Land - Ostfalen, highlighting its rich geological heritage. The most prominent geological features within the Naturschutzgebiet Oberharz are the impressive quartzite rock formations of the Jermerstein, which are remnants from the Devonian period.
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