The best running trails in Witterveld

There are over 550 running routes in the broader Witterveld region, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. These include 56 easy routes, over 400 moderate routes, and 100 difficult routes.

Direct access to the Witterveld Natura 2000 area itself is largely prohibited and considered dangerous, as it functions as a military training ground and shooting range. However, you can still experience the terrain from the cycling path along its western border, and the wider Drenthe province offers numerous accessible trails with similar landscapes.

The running trails in the vicinity of Witterveld traverse diverse landscapes, including heathlands, peat forests, and fens. You'll find a mix of wet and dry heath vegetation, remnants of raised bog, and areas with a thin cover sand layer over boulder clay. Some routes may feature unique natural elements like pingo ruins.

Yes, there are several easy running routes. One popular option is the Baggelhuizerplas mountain bike route – Baggelhuizerplas loop from Witten, an easy 3.0 km path that circles the Baggelhuizerplas, offering scenic views. Another easy route is the Baggelhuizerplas mountain bike route – Baggelhuizerplas Parking Area loop from Witterveld, which is 4.3 km long.

The running routes in the Witterveld region are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 120 reviews. Runners often praise the varied terrain and the natural beauty of the heathlands, forests, and fens.

Yes, many of the routes in the Witterveld area are circular. For example, the Veenkampen Tunnel – Markesteen Dwingeloo loop from Witten is a moderate 12.8 km circular trail. Another option is the Baggelhuizerplas mountain bike route – Baggelhuizerplas Parking Area loop from Witten, a 8.5 km loop around the Baggelhuizerplas.

While the Witterveld area itself has restricted access, many trails in the surrounding Drenthe province are dog-friendly. It's always advisable to check local regulations for specific routes, especially regarding leash requirements and protected natural areas, to ensure a pleasant experience for both you and your pet.

Yes, there are routes suitable for families, particularly the easier and shorter loops. The Baggelhuizerplas mountain bike route – Baggelhuizerplas loop from Witten, at 3.0 km, is an excellent choice for a family outing, offering scenic views in a manageable distance.

While direct access to the core Witterveld area is restricted, the broader region is known for its unique natural features. You might encounter diverse heath vegetation, rare peat bog forests, and characteristic hummock and hollow structures of active raised bog. The area is also home to various bird species and, notably, a relatively large adder population, so it's important to stay on marked paths.

The Witterveld region offers beautiful scenery throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors, with the heath blooming in late summer/early autumn. Summer can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are ideal. Winter jogging is also possible, offering a serene, often frosty landscape, but be mindful of potentially slippery conditions.

Yes, for those seeking a longer and more challenging run, the Veenkampen Tunnel – Markesteen Dwingeloo loop from Witten is a moderate 12.8 km trail that provides a diverse experience through the local landscape. There are also 100 difficult routes available in the wider region for experienced runners.

For routes like those around Baggelhuizerplas, there are often designated parking areas. For example, the Baggelhuizerplas mountain bike route – Baggelhuizerplas Parking Area loop from Witten starts near a parking facility. Public transport options may vary depending on the specific starting point of a route, but major towns like Assen, which is close to some routes, are well-connected.