The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Plagefenn

The Plagefenn Nature Reserve, as part of the Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve, is a protected area. Dogs are generally welcome on designated hiking trails, but it is crucial to keep them on a leash at all times. This is especially important to protect the diverse wildlife, including fallow deer, red deer, and various bird species, and to preserve the sensitive ecosystems like the bogs and wetlands. Always respect local signage regarding dog access.

There are over 10 dog-friendly hiking trails available in the Plagefenn area, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. Our guide features 14 curated tours suitable for you and your canine companion.

Yes, there are several easy options perfect for a relaxed walk with your dog. For instance, the Dock at Bachsee – Bachsee loop from Neuehütte is an easy 5.5 km route. Another great choice is the Hiking loop from Neuehütte, which is just under 4 km and also rated easy.

Plagefenn offers a rich tapestry of natural landscapes. You and your dog can explore ancient beech forests, unique peat moss moors, and wetlands. The area is characterized by beautiful lakes like the Grosser and Kleiner Plagesee, Amtssee, and Krugsee. You'll also encounter abundant deadwood, which creates a vibrant habitat for various species, showcasing over a century of natural development.

While the core of Plagefenn is a wilderness area, you can explore several natural highlights. The Plagefenn Nature Reserve itself is a major attraction, as is the Great Lieper Posse Wetland. The Hugo Conwentz Memorial marks the historical significance of the reserve. Remember to keep your dog on a leash when visiting these areas.

Plagefenn offers unique experiences throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer insects. Summer can be warm, and due to the wetlands, mosquitoes can be prevalent, so come prepared. Winter offers tranquil, often snowy landscapes, but some trails might be muddy or icy. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, the Oder-Havel Canal – Finow Canal loop from Niederfinow is a moderate 18 km hike. Another moderate option is the Großer Teller – Orchard in Schorfheide-Chorin loop from Liepe, covering over 9 km with some elevation changes.

Parking is generally available at the starting points of many trails, particularly near villages like Brodowin, Chorin, or Neuehütte. Specific parking information is often provided within individual route descriptions on komoot. Always look for designated parking areas to ensure you're not obstructing local access or protected zones.

While some areas within the wider Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve are accessible by public transport, direct access to all Plagefenn trailheads might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus and train schedules to Chorin or Brodowin and plan your route accordingly. Dogs are usually permitted on public transport, often requiring a muzzle or a separate ticket, so verify with the transport provider beforehand.

The dog-friendly trails around Plagefenn are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3,200 ratings. Hikers often praise the quiet, natural woodlands, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in a truly wild environment with their dogs.

Many of the dog-friendly trails in Plagefenn are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. Examples include the Orchard in Schorfheide-Chorin loop from Pimpinellenberg and the Dock at Bachsee – Bachsee loop from Neuehütte, providing varied scenery on your walk.