An der Düssel and Entdeckerschleife Evolutionspfad LoopLoop

Starting near Kreis Mettmann, Germany, the An der Düssel and Entdeckerschleife Evolutionspfad Loop is a captivating 10 km (6.2 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of approximately 100 meters (328 feet). This trail offers a medium difficulty rating, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to Kreis Mettmann, Germany. For those using public transport, take a train or bus to Mettmann Stadtwald station, which is the nearest significant landmark. From there, it's a short walk to the trailhead.

### Trail Overview The trail begins with a gentle ascent, offering a gradual introduction to the elevation gain. As you start, you'll be greeted by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of the Düssel River. The first 2 km (1.2 miles) are relatively easy, making it a good warm-up for the more challenging sections ahead.

### Key Landmarks and Points of Interest #### Düssel River The Düssel River is a significant natural feature you'll encounter early in your hike. The river's clear waters and surrounding flora create a serene atmosphere, perfect for a brief pause to take in the scenery.

#### Neanderthal Museum Around the 4 km (2.5 miles) mark, you'll come across the Neanderthal Museum. This museum is dedicated to the Neanderthal man, whose remains were discovered in the nearby Neander Valley. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into human evolution and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

#### Evolutionspfad (Evolution Path) As you continue, you'll enter the Evolutionspfad, or Evolution Path, around the 6 km (3.7 miles) point. This section of the trail is designed to educate hikers about the evolution of life on Earth. Informative plaques and sculptures line the path, making it both an educational and visually stimulating experience.

### Flora and Fauna The trail is rich in biodiversity. Expect to see a variety of bird species, including woodpeckers and kingfishers. The forested areas are home to deer and foxes, so keep your eyes peeled. The flora is equally diverse, with oak, beech, and pine trees dominating the landscape. During spring and summer, wildflowers add a splash of color to the trail.

### Navigation and Safety Given the trail's moderate difficulty, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be reassuring, especially in the more secluded sections.

### Final Stretch The last 2 km (1.2 miles) of the trail are a gentle descent back to the starting point. This section offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, providing a picturesque end to your hike.

### Historical Significance The region around Kreis Mettmann is historically significant due to the discovery of Neanderthal remains in the 19th century. This discovery has provided invaluable insights into human evolution and has made the area a focal point for anthropological studies.

This trail offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and educational opportunities, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.