On the Rothaarsteig, winter is also hiking time. A little frost won’t stop you on the 154 kilometers between Sauerland and Westerwald. However, good preparation and suitable equipment are a must. We know what you need to watch out for so that you can really enjoy your trip on the long-distance hiking trail – even in winter.
Preparation is the be-all and end-all
In principle, hiking is a fairly low-threshold leisure activity. Sturdy shoes, a hiking map or app (future!) and a bottle of water: that’s it! But in winter, you should put a little more thought into your preparations. “Wearing weatherproof clothing and sturdy shoes is particularly important to cope with winter conditions,” recommends Katharina Schwake-Drucks. The hiking expert at the Rothaarsteigverein should know. In fact, it can get quite chilly on the hiking trail in winter. After all, it is a low mountain trail that in places reaches up to 843 meters in altitude.
If your toes get a little frosty and thick socks alone don’t do the job, then reaching for gaiters can help. They keep the snow out of your shoes and are guaranteed to keep your feet dry and comfortably warm. Also important in winter: pay attention to the hours of daylight. If you’ve never been out in a forest at night, you’ll be surprised how dark it is.
Time will tell
Some people will be pleased, others put off, by the fact that hiking in winter is usually rather more strenuous, especially when there is a lot of snow. This means that you will progress more slowly than you are accustomed to on your summer hikes in fine weather. “Hikers move more slowly and should therefore plan more time for their tour,” advises expert Ilka Robke.
The Rothaarsteig is not fully developed along its entire route, which is why it’s best to pack a few hiking poles. Not only will you look extremely professional, but you’ll also be sure-footed. And keep an eye up every now and then: in dense forests, a good load of snow can come crashing down from the branches, known in technical jargon as “snow breakage”. And as always in nature, we are only guests here. Please stay on the paths, because in winter sensitive habitats and the animals that live there are particularly in need of protection.
The reward
Hiking in winter is not only hard work, but also quite spectacular. Because for your efforts you will be rewarded with extensive panoramic views from the heights of the Rothaarsteig. Don’t forget your camera! The Niedersfelder Hochheide or the Kahle Asten, the highest mountain in the Sauerland, are particularly popular. There is nothing more satisfying than enjoying the fantastic view after a strenuous ascent while sipping a hot tea from the thermos you brought with you. And there are also plenty of opportunities for a hearty stop along the route. So, boots on, poles packed, jacket tightened and off you go!
