Hohe Mark Steig

Hohe Mark Steig

Hiking paradise in the Hohe Mark Nature Park

If you want to hike through shady forests, colourful heaths and past glistening lakes, the 150 km Hohe Mark Steig is the ideal choice. On six different stages and a water route, the hiking trail presents a variety of landscapes with picturesque natural experiences and places. This is precisely why - and because of the good quality of the trail - it has been recognised by the German Hiking Association as a "Wanderbares Deutschland" quality trail.

The hiking trail stretches from Wesel to Olfen. The stages are between 19 and 27 kilometres long. The brightly coloured signs always show you the way.

See for yourself and cross the landscapes of Münsterland, the northern Ruhr region and the Rhineland. The deceleration in nature and breathtaking views are definitely worth it.

Let yourself be inspired

The cute Poitou donkeys in Olfen
© Stefan Bröker
Hullen reservoir in the district of Recklinghausen
© Stefan Bröker
Nature Park House Biological Station Recklinghausen District
© Stefan Bröker
The Haard in Oer-Erkenschwick
© Naturpark Hohe Mark
Hiking in the Hohe Mark Nature Park
© Patrick Gawandtka
The Issel in Hamminkeln
© Stefan Bröker

The LandStreifer

Would you prefer a circular hiking trail? No problem: the so-called "LandStreifer" are ideal for day trips or weekend excursions! They are always good for a scenic and cultural surprise. This makes them particularly interesting for novice hikers or families with children. You can choose from circular hiking trails of between four and 16 kilometres. You can find more information here.

The highlights along the route

1
Wooden plank path in the moor
© Stefan Bröker
Wooden plank path in the moor/Diersfordter forest

Old gnarled oaks, copper beeches and Scots pines characterise the Diersfordter Forest to the north of Wesel. Wooden planks show you the way through the idyllic moor. What makes it special: This forest is home to the largest population of the otherwise very rare stag beetle in NRW.

2
Lembeck Castle
© Stefan Bröker
Lembeck Castle

Lembeck Castle marks the southern border of the Münsterland region. The large castle complex rises up almost out of nowhere. Through the castle gate you enter the castle park, whose formal design contrasts with the wooded surroundings.

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3
Biological station
© Stefan Bröker
Nature Park House Biological Station Recklinghausen District

Located in the centre of the nature park, the Biological Station is a welcome change. Visit the barrier-free permanent exhibition, which provides informative and playful information about the natural and cultural landscapes in western Münsterland. Since 2025, there has also been a new exhibition on the topic of fungi and how they connect the organisms in nature. Children receive a free exhibition booklet on the topic of the "Wood wide web".

4
Westruper Heide
© Stefan Bröker
Westruper Heide

The sandy soils of the Westruper Heide near Haltern am See offer a unique natural spectacle. Juniper and heather are criss-crossed by hiking trails. The protected area is home to rare plants and animals. The slightly undulating profile always offers new perspectives on the different natural areas of the heathland.

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5
Lippe ferry Maifisch
© Patrick Gawandtka
Lippe ferry Maifisch

Everyone can take a spin on the wheel here! The Lippe ferry is a platform that floats comfortably in the Lippe near Flaesheim. You can use your own muscle power to cross from one bank to the other. Fun for young and old!

6
Rennberg fire station tower
© Patrick Gawandtka
Rennberg fire station tower

Would you like to enjoy a panoramic view over the Hohe Mark? Then head to the Rennberg fire station tower. You can reach the viewing platform, which is 168 metres above sea level, via 143 grid-free steps. The view is worth the effort!

7
Steverauen Olfen
© Stefan Bröker
Steverauen Olfen

The Stever floodplains in Olfen are worth a visit at any time of year. Between Heck cattle and Konik horses, a unique landscape has developed along the River Stever. Here you can observe numerous rare animal species and discover the Steverauen on foot, by bike or by canoe.

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The Hohe Mark Steig at a glance

  • 150 km
  • Route tour
  • medium
  • signposted
  • Multi-day tour/day tour
  • Nature
  • Wesel
  • Hamminkeln
  • Schermbeck
  • Haltern am See
  • Olfen
  • Dorsten

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