Ruine Hardenstein, Rauendahl and Wilhelmshöhe Loop

Starting near Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis, Germany, the Ruine Hardenstein, Rauendahl, and Wilhelmshöhe Loop is a captivating 7 km (4.35 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of approximately 100 meters (328 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a blend of historical landmarks, lush nature, and diverse wildlife, making it a rewarding experience for hikers.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to the nearest known address: Hardenstein Castle, 58456 Witten, Germany. For those using public transport, take a train to Witten Central Station and then a bus to the Hardenstein Castle stop. From there, it's a short walk to the trailhead.

### Trail Highlights

#### Ruine Hardenstein The trail begins near the historic Ruine Hardenstein, a medieval castle ruin dating back to the 14th century. This site offers a glimpse into the region's feudal past, with remnants of the castle walls and towers still standing. It's a great spot to start your hike, providing both historical context and scenic views of the Ruhr River.

#### Rauendahl Forest As you continue, you'll enter the Rauendahl Forest, a dense woodland area rich in biodiversity. The forest is home to various species of birds, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for the European robin and the Eurasian jay, both commonly seen here. The forest trail is well-marked but can be muddy after rain, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended.

#### Wilhelmshöhe About halfway through the loop, you'll reach Wilhelmshöhe, a small hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The elevation gain here is around 50 meters (164 feet), making it the steepest part of the trail. The effort is well worth it, as the summit provides a perfect spot for a rest and some photography.

### Navigation and Safety The trail is well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a reliable navigation tool. HiiKER is an excellent app for this purpose, offering detailed maps and real-time GPS tracking. The trail is generally safe, but be cautious of slippery rocks near the river and uneven terrain in the forest.

### Flora and Fauna The trail is a haven for nature enthusiasts. In spring and summer, the forest floor is carpeted with wildflowers like bluebells and wood anemones. The area is also rich in fungi, particularly in the autumn months. Wildlife sightings are common, so bring binoculars if you're a bird-watching enthusiast.

### Practical Information The entire loop takes about 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the sights. There are no facilities along the trail, so bring enough water and snacks. The best time to hike this trail is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is mild and the flora is in full bloom.

This trail offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and moderate physical challenge, making it an ideal choice for a half-day hike.