Ijsselmulden to Veerallee via Uiterwijkse Weg and Veecaterdijk

Starting near the banks of the IJssel River, this 19 km (about 11.8 miles) route from Ijsselmulden to Veerallee via Uiterwijkse Weg and Veecaterdijk offers a flat, easy walk through the heart of Overijssel’s river landscape. With virtually no elevation gain, this trail is accessible for most walkers and is especially suited for those looking for a leisurely day out immersed in Dutch countryside.

Getting There

The trailhead is conveniently located near the town of Zwolle, a major hub in the region. For those arriving by public transport, Zwolle’s central train station is well-connected to major Dutch cities. From the station, local buses or a short taxi ride can bring you to the starting point near the IJssel riverbank, close to the IJsselbrug (IJssel Bridge). If driving, parking is available near the Veerallee district or at designated lots along the IJssel, with clear signage guiding visitors to riverside access points.

Trail Overview and Navigation

The route follows a gentle course along the IJssel, one of the Netherlands’ most scenic rivers, with the path weaving through open meadows, dike roads, and rural hamlets. Navigation is straightforward, with well-marked paths and dike roads. For precise wayfinding and up-to-date trail conditions, HiiKER is recommended as the exclusive navigation tool.

Highlights Along the Route

*Riverside Meadows and Dikes* The first stretch leads you along grassy embankments and the Uiterwijkse Weg, where you’ll be treated to expansive views of the IJssel floodplains. These meadows are home to grazing cattle and a variety of waterfowl, including herons, storks, and sometimes even spoonbills. The dikes themselves are a testament to Dutch water management, with centuries-old engineering keeping the river in check.

*Historic Hamlets and Veecaterdijk* As you continue, the route passes through small settlements that have grown up along the river. The Veecaterdijk is particularly notable for its traditional Dutch farmhouses and the occasional windmill, offering a glimpse into rural life that has changed little over the decades. Keep an eye out for interpretive signs detailing the history of the dikes and the role they played in protecting the land from flooding.

*Nature and Wildlife* The IJssel valley is a haven for birdwatchers, especially during migration seasons. Marshlands and oxbow lakes along the route attract flocks of geese, ducks, and waders. In spring and summer, wildflowers line the dike roads, and the air is alive with the calls of lapwings and skylarks.

*Approaching Veerallee* The final kilometers bring you closer to Zwolle’s outskirts, where the landscape transitions from open fields to the leafy avenues of the Veerallee district. This area is known for its stately 19th-century villas and proximity to the city’s historic center, making it a pleasant place to end your walk.

Practical Considerations

With a total distance of 19 km (11.8 miles) and no significant elevation gain, this hike is rated as easy and can be completed in 4–5 hours at a relaxed pace. The route is mostly on paved or gravel dike roads, with some grassy sections that may be muddy after rain. Facilities are limited along the way, so bring sufficient water and snacks. Public toilets and cafes are available at the start and end points near Zwolle.

Weather in this region can be changeable, so pack a light rain jacket and check local forecasts before setting out. The open landscape offers little shelter from wind or sun, so sun protection is also recommended.

For those interested in extending their visit, Zwolle’s historic city center is just a short walk from Veerallee, offering museums, restaurants, and picturesque canals to explore after your hike.