Hainich National Park

Hainich National Park is located in central Germany, in the state of Thuringia. The park covers 75 square kilometers of the Hainich Forest, part of the larger Thuringian Forest, and is situated near the towns of Bad Langensalza, Eisenach, and Mühlhausen. The park was established in 1997 with the goal of protecting one of the largest continuous deciduous forests in Germany. This region, previously used as a military training ground, has since been restored to its natural state, allowing the forest to regenerate. In 2011, Hainich National Park, along with other beech forests, was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the "Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe." Parking facilities are available at key entry points to the park, such as the visitor center at Thiemsburg and the trailheads near Bad Langensalza and Craula. There are around 10 designated parking areas, with small fees ranging from €2 to €5 for day use. Visitors are encouraged to park in these areas to preserve the park’s natural environment. Hainich National Park is renowned for its wildlife, particularly its thriving populations of wildcats, bats, and various bird species such as the black stork and middle spotted woodpecker. The park is also home to several amphibians and reptiles, including the fire salamander and European adder. The park’s flora is dominated by dense beech forests, alongside oak, ash, and lime trees. The forest floor is rich with wildflowers, ferns, and fungi, contributing to the area’s biodiversity. Notable landmarks within the park include the Treetop Walk (Baumkronenpfad), offering panoramic views of the forest canopy, and several ancient trees. Public transportation is available, with buses connecting the park to nearby towns like Bad Langensalza and Eisenach, making it accessible for visitors without private vehicles. Walking and cycling paths provide easy ways to explore the park.