- Refreshment stop
The Rothaarsteig stage runs for around 19 km from the Ginsberger Heid to the source of the Lahn - past the Ginsburg castle and the Gillerberg tower, through the Eder moorland and past the sources of the Eder and Siegen rivers to the source of the Lahn.
Ginsberger Heide (near Hilchenbach-Lützel)
Lahn spring near Netphen
On this stage, the Rothaarsteig leads from the roof of the Siegerland region to the headwaters of three major rivers: Lahn, Siegen and Eder. On this tour, the Rothaarsteig roughly follows the course of the historic Iron Road over the Rothaar ridge. The Iron Road was part of the medieval road from Cologne to Leipzig and owes its name to the fact that trade in iron goods was conducted here until the High Middle Ages.
From the Ginsberg Heid, the route heads towards Ginsburg Castle, which is now accessible as a viewing tower. Shortly afterwards, the Rothaarsteig leads over the Giller (653 m) and on into the headwaters of three large rivers: Eder, Siegen, Lahn. The first thing you see is the distinctive moorland along the Eder. From there, the Rothaarsteig leads in an easterly direction via the Kohlenstraße to Benfe and on to the source of the Sieg. After being redesigned in 2014, the source has once again become a natural spring area. The river that gives its name to the Siegerland region flows into the Rhine after 155 kilometers. Another three kilometers on the Rothaarsteig and the destination of the sixth stage is reached: the source of the Lahn. Like the Sieg, the Lahn also flows into the Rhine, but only after 246 kilometers of river course.
Ginsberger Heid - Ginsburg - Gillerbergturm - Lützel - Ederquelle - Benfe - Großenbach - Siegquelle - Lahnquelle
The Rothaarsteig leads along numerous natural paths away from agricultural and forestry roads. Weatherproof clothing and sturdy shoes are therefore a must for every hike. We want you to experience the "Path of the Senses" not only "dry" but also "well".
In our small hiking store at www.rothaarsteig.de/shop you will also find a selection of Rothaarsteig items to prepare for your tour or as a souvenir. We are also happy to recommend the durable and high-quality outdoor equipment from our long-standing partner, the outdoor outfitter Tatonka.
Hiking rucksack
A suitable hiking rucksack will make your tour on the Rothaarsteig twice as much fun! Hiking rucksacks have a ventilated carrying system that makes them very comfortable to wear, as this ensures that sweat can evaporate immediately. They can be fastened with a waist or hip belt and thus sit firmly on your back with every movement. They are also equipped with a practical holder for hiking poles and often have a compartment with a tube outlet for a hydration bladder, so that hydration is ensured at all times.
First aid kit
To make sure you can enjoy your hiking tour on the Rothaarsteig to the full, a first aid kit should be in your rucksack. After all, nothing is more annoying than not being able to treat a blister on your foot or minor injuries immediately. The first aid kits from Tatonka are filled with all the important materials for the initial treatment of injuries and also contain an "outdoor cheat sheet" with a concise and clear guide to the correct behavior in the event of an emergency in the great outdoors. You can find Tatonka first aid kits here!
Food and drinks
On some stages, especially between Lahnhof and Dillenburg, there are unfortunately no refreshment stops along the way. Remember to pack food and drink, especially here. Especially in summer, it is important to drink plenty of fluids.
Information about the rescue signs on the Rothaarsteig
Most hiking trails run away from towns and settlements and all hikers have certainly thought about what would happen if an emergency were to occur. How can I be found here? Where am I anyway? Can the emergency services reach me?
In an emergency, things have to happen quickly! That's why the Rothaarsteig is equipped with so-called rescue signs throughout. The green and white plaques attached to the posts of the signposts have a number that you must give when making an emergency call. This way, the emergency services know exactly where you are and valuable time can be saved.
Note on the increased risk of forest fires
Please bear in mind that there is currently an increased risk of forest fires due to the drought! Therefore, please observe the following instructions:
When it is (too) late:
The forest will thank you!
Restaurants:
To help you prepare for your hike, we will be happy to send you our free information pack. At www.rothaarst eig.de/prospekte you can easily select the information you need. A good companion for every tour is our brochure "Rothaarsteig Wegweiser" with the hosts along the trail and other useful information.
The Rothaarsteig recommends:
Rothaarsteig hiking map at a scale of 1:50,000
You can reach Hilchenbach-Lützel by train. Unfortunately, the Lahnquelle is not served by public transport. You will have to take a cab to the nearest train station in Rudersdorf. There you can catch the train in the direction of Gießen or Siegen. You can order a cab by calling the chargeable hotline 22456 (mobile number for cab orders throughout Germany). The Rothaarsteig quality companies also often offer a shuttle service for you and your luggage. It is best to enquire about options and costs directly when booking.
You can find more information at www.bahn.de.