4.5
(2604)
9,238
hikers
82
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails around Brand are characterized by varied terrain, including nature reserves and local ponds. The region offers a network of paths suitable for different activity levels, with gentle ascents and descents. Hikers can explore areas featuring natural water bodies and open landscapes.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.3
(3)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
5.43km
01:22
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.0
(2)
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
6.31km
01:36
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Even though this body of water is probably something artificially created (cf. 'Alte Thöse'), nature has reclaimed a lot here, so a short stop to admire it is worthwhile. To stay in the forest between Wathlingen and Hänigsen, there isn't much else you can do, as @Watho96 correctly mentions in his highlight [www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/4791781?ref=whd] about the supposedly most direct path past the spoil heap.
0
0
In the middle of the forest of the Brand nature reserve [https://www.nlwkn.niedersachsen.de/naturschutzgebiete/naturschutzgebiet-brand-44604.html] , when riding on the well-maintained forest paths, you encounter St. Andrew's crosses and railway tracks. These belong to the remnants of the former potash railway, which ran in a triangle from the former Niedersachsen-Riedel mine near Hänigsen [https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaliwerk_Niedersachsen-Riedel] , via the heap at the former Niedersachsen shaft in Wathlingen [https://www.kpluss.com/de-de/ueber-ks/standorte/europa/wathlingen/#aktuelles] and the decommissioned Elwerath 29 oil drilling site near Nienhagen (ExxonMobil - https://corporate.exxonmobil.de/neuigkeiten/newsroom/presseinformationen/2022/elwerath-29: BEB Erdgas und Erdöl GmbH & Co. KG - https://www.beb.de/About/DE_about.html) to the Ehlershausen train station, where there was a connection to the DB rail network. Although no train has rolled on this route for decades (or centuries?!) especially in the section between Elwerath and Ehlershausen, it was part of the official railway directory for a very long time, which led, for example, to the fact that during the construction of the new B3 near Ehlershausen, sunken railway tracks were visible and audible when driving over them in the asphalt for many years. [http://www.bahnsteiner.de/bergbau/] That this is no longer the case after the application of a new asphalt layer, and that the solidly constructed guardrails also make sense, is due to the fact that the railway lines have now also been removed from the route directory. However, part of the route is still actually used today by the vehicles of Kalibahn Niedersachsen Riedel e.V.. Even though they mention on their homepage that there are also trips on the route from Wathlinen to Elwerath, to which this level crossing belongs, the current condition of the tracks does not look like anything has moved here this year. [http://kalibahn.de/]
0
0
This high mountain of waste is always impressive.
0
0
That's what grandma always said: If the mountain is dark, it will rain, if it is light, the sun will shine 🌞
2
0
There is a sunny spot here for a rest even in winter - unfortunately there is no bench or anything similar, so you have to make do with a stack of boards
1
0
This is the only way to cross the Thöse; the path to the right along the stream ends in nothing after about 300 meters!
0
0
An idyllic spot, but unlike what komoot (and the competition) shows, there is no way to cross the Thöse with dry feet.
1
0
Brand offers a wide selection of dog-friendly hiking opportunities, with over 80 routes specifically curated for you and your canine companion. These range from leisurely strolls to more challenging mountain treks, ensuring there's something for every dog and owner.
Yes, Brand has plenty of easy, dog-friendly trails perfect for a relaxed outing. For instance, the Bridge Over the Thöse – Pond in Brand Nature Reserve loop from Brand is an easy option, offering gentle terrain. Many of the 41 easy routes are suitable for beginners or dogs needing a less strenuous walk.
The Brandnertal valley, nestled within the Rätikon Mountains, offers diverse terrain. You can expect everything from gentle paths through lush meadows and ancient forests, such as those found in the pristine Zalimtal Valley, to more rugged alpine trails with breathtaking views. The region is known for its 'gorgeously green valley' in summer, providing varied landscapes for you and your dog to explore.
Absolutely! Many dog-friendly routes in Brand are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A great example is the Pond in Brand Nature Reserve loop from Brand, which offers a pleasant circular walk. You'll find several other circular options among the available trails.
Brand is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the captivating Pond in Brand Nature Reserve, a serene spot perfect for a peaceful walk. The region also boasts the dramatic Rätikon Mountains and the 'wild beauty' of the Bürser Gorge. While some high alpine areas might be challenging for all dogs, many trails offer stunning views of these natural wonders.
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Brand, with an average score of 4.57 stars from over 2,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning alpine scenery, and the tranquility of the natural surroundings. Many appreciate the variety of trails, from easy walks around the Pond in Brand Nature Reserve to more challenging routes, all while enjoying the company of their dogs.
Brand is a welcoming destination for visitors with dogs. Many accommodations, from hotels to guesthouses, are dog-friendly. Similarly, you'll find various cafes and restaurants in the Brandnertal valley that welcome well-behaved dogs, especially in outdoor seating areas. It's always a good idea to check with establishments in advance.
The summer months, when the Brandnertal transforms into a 'gorgeously green valley,' are ideal for hiking with your dog. The extensive network of trails is fully accessible, and the weather is generally pleasant. While winter offers beautiful snowshoeing opportunities, some trails may be covered in snow, making summer and early autumn the prime seasons for dog-friendly hiking.
Yes, Brand offers several routes that are great for families with dogs. The Natursprünge-trail, for example, is a 4-kilometer path with interactive stations, making it engaging for children while being suitable for a leisurely walk with your dog. The Wildlife Trail is another gentle option designed to educate about local fauna, perfect for a family outing.
Brand generally offers good access to trailheads. Parking is available at various starting points for hikes throughout the valley. The region also has public transport options, including buses, which can often accommodate dogs, though specific rules and potential fees may apply. It's advisable to check local transport regulations regarding pets before your trip.
For those seeking a greater challenge, Brand offers more demanding dog-friendly routes. While the Schesaplana mountain hike is a formidable two-day trek, there are also numerous moderate trails, such as the Pond in Brand Nature Reserve – Kalimandscharo Wathlingen loop from Wathlingen-Nienhagen, which provides a longer distance and slightly more elevation. These routes allow experienced hikers and their dogs to explore higher altitudes and more rugged terrain.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.