Top 7 Lakes around Oderteich
Best lakes around Oderteich are centered on the historic Oderteich reservoir, located in the Harz National Park. This artificial lake, built between 1715 and 1722, is a component of the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Harz Water Regale. Its waters are brownish due to humic acids from surrounding moorland, indicating its pristine nature. The area features a "wilderness" forest with old spruce trees and offers recreational activities like hiking and swimming.
Best lakes around Oderteich
- The most popular lakes is Oderteich, a lake that offers a path leading around the pond. The Brocken bypass of the Harzer-Hexen-Stieg leads along here, and it is a stamping point for the Harz Hiking Needle.
- Another must-see spot is Overflow sluice at Oderteich, a man-made monument. This protective system, manufactured in 1895, allows for an increase in the storage target by another meter.
- Visitors also love Root-covered path on the west shore of the Oderteich, a natural monument. This trail features fortified paths, plank, and root paths, allowing for a complete walk around the Oderteich.
- Oderteich is known for its historical reservoirs, natural swimming areas, and scenic trails. Visitors can explore various lake features and surrounding natural landscapes.
- The lakes around Oderteich are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 5000 upvotes and over 2000 photos shared across 7 highlights.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Oderteich
Highlight • Lake
Directly near the dam there is a free parking lot on the Harzhochstrasse.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Root-covered path on the west shore of the Oderteich
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Overflow sluice at Oderteich
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Oderteich — West Shore Swimming Area
Highlight • Lake
Over time, a valuable flora and fauna has settled on the banks of the Oderteich. It is an important habitat for birds such as the gray wagtail, and the common sandpiper can sometimes be found here. Out of respect for nature, please stay on the marked paths.
Source: Nationalpark-Harz.de
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Granite obelisks at the Oderteich
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Oderteich.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
A very nice round trip around the Oderteich, you come along here 😉
1
0
Very interesting to look at and a beautiful place to relax
5
0
The circular path is beautiful. You walk over the sand, the wooden walkway and then past the bathing area and there are plenty of opportunities to take a break. It's like a little vacation when you're there.
2
0
Every dam needs a flood relief system to ensure that even exceptionally large floods do not cause the crest of the dam to overflow. At the Oderteich, it is located at the eastern end of the dam. In the reservoir in front of the outflow, several menhir-like granite steles, about 2.50 meters high, are noticeable. They serve to keep ice floes away from the overflow, as they could block the outflow cross-section.[24] The sluice system of the old outflow was manufactured in 1895 by the Royal Central Forge Clausthal. It makes it possible to increase the reservoir level by another meter. Originally, the outflow continued straight on for almost 100 meters towards the south before the water could rush down into the valley. This route is still visible to the trained eye in the terrain. When, towards the end of construction work in 1722, stones were still missing to complete the dam, the steeply sloping and approximately 80-meter-long Great Flood was blasted out of the rock about 60 meters below the sluice gate at a right angle to this outfall, with the hope that it would improve hydraulic performance. The shot-shot route carved into the rock is particularly impressive when in use. The outfall was initially not sufficiently dimensioned. In December 1760, the dam was overflowed during an exceptional flood. The stable dam construction meant that only minor damage occurred. The response was to raise the dam by one meter, which probably only compensated for the dam settlement that had occurred up to that point. In 1886/87, it was concluded that the performance of the outfall needed to be increased further. To this end, a further outfall was built a few meters east of the existing outfall, twelve meters wide at the inlet, with the overflow threshold about one meter above the threshold of the old main outfall. It runs parallel to the main outflow under the B 242 and merges with it shortly before the overflow level and the subsequent spillway. This has increased the capacity of the flood relief system by around 50%.
2
0
You can also swim there and take a nice little walk. Hiking boots are recommended, though.
1
0
The overflow apron is definitely interesting to look at
4
0
Very nice corner. A lot of water flows in winter.
2
0
Very nice place to relax.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of the Oderteich?
The Oderteich is a significant historical landmark, constructed by miners between 1715 and 1722 to supply water for the St. Andreasberg mine's hydropower. It was once Germany's largest dam for 170 years and is now a crucial part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Upper Harz Water Regale. You can explore the well-preserved dam structure, particularly the Oderteich South Dam, to learn more about its role in the region's mining history.
Can I swim in the Oderteich?
Yes, swimming is permitted in the southern third of the reservoir and near the dam. Designated bathing areas, such as the Oderteich — West Shore Swimming Area, are separated by swimming chains due to cold and potentially dangerous undercurrents further out in the lake. The water has a distinctive brownish color from humic acids but is considered clean and pure.
Are there popular hiking trails around Oderteich?
Yes, a well-signposted circular hiking trail, approximately 4 kilometers long, loops around the Oderteich. This path, which includes sections of wooden planks and root-covered paths like the Root-covered path on the west shore of the Oderteich, offers picturesque views and is suitable for families. Parts of the Brocken bypass of the Harzer-Hexen-Stieg also lead along here.
What kind of terrain will I encounter on trails around Oderteich?
The trails around Oderteich feature a mix of terrain. You'll find fortified paths, wooden planks, and natural root paths, especially on the Root-covered path on the west shore of the Oderteich. These varied surfaces allow for a complete walk around the lake while protecting the sensitive moorland environment.
Is the Oderteich area family-friendly?
Absolutely. The easy 4-kilometer circular hiking trail around the Oderteich is suitable for families. Additionally, the designated swimming areas, such as the Oderteich — West Shore Swimming Area, provide opportunities for children to enjoy the water. The area is within the Harz National Park, offering a natural setting for family outings.
When is the best time to visit Oderteich?
The Oderteich offers stunning natural beauty throughout the year. In warmer months, the calm waters reflect the dense trees, and varied flora can be observed. In winter, it transforms into a unique icy landscape with snow-covered spruces, creating a magical atmosphere for winter hiking.
What natural features can I expect to see around Oderteich?
The Oderteich is nestled within the Harz National Park, featuring a "wilderness" forest with some of the oldest spruce trees in the Harz, some over 300 years old. You'll also observe the distinctive brownish water, which is due to humic acids from surrounding moorland, and varied flora, including rare plants like sundew.
How can I get to Oderteich and where can I park?
There is a free parking lot directly near the dam on the Harzhochstrasse, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. For public transport options, it's advisable to check local schedules as connections can vary.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners around Oderteich?
Yes, the circular hiking trail around the Oderteich is considered easy and suitable for beginners. For more options, you can explore the Easy hikes around Oderteich guide, which includes routes like the 'Circular hiking trail Oderteich' and 'Wooden boardwalk at the Oderteich'.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the Oderteich?
Beyond the circular walk, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including challenging routes like 'Oderteich Lake – Wolfswarte loop from Torfhaus', detailed in the Running Trails around Oderteich guide. There are also waterfall hikes available, such as those listed in the Waterfall hikes around Oderteich guide.
Are dogs allowed on trails around Oderteich?
The Harz National Park generally welcomes dogs on trails, provided they are kept on a leash to protect wildlife and other visitors. Specific rules for swimming with dogs in the Oderteich's designated areas should be observed, as the Oderteich — West Shore Swimming Area is noted as a fine place for families with dogs.
What do visitors enjoy the most about Oderteich?
Visitors frequently praise the Oderteich for its beautiful scenery, especially the opportunity to take wonderful photos from the dam and observe the seasonal changes. The well-maintained circular path, suitable for all ages, and the option for swimming in designated areas are also highly appreciated. The historical significance of the dam, such as the Overflow sluice at Oderteich, also draws interest.
Most popular routes around Oderteich
Most popular attractions around Oderteich
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Oderteich? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
