Rothaarsteig from Ginsberger Heide to the Lahn source

Ginsberger Heide - Ginsburg - Gillerbergturm - Lützel - Eder source - Benfe - Großenbach - Sieg source - Lahn source 

The Rothaarsteig leads over numerous natural paths off agricultural and forestry roads. Therefore, weatherproof clothing and sturdy footwear are a must for every hike. We want you not only to experience the 'path of the senses' "dry" but also "on good foot".

In our small hiking shop at www.rothaarsteig.de/shop you will also find a selection of Rothaarsteig items to prepare for your route or as souvenirs. We gladly recommend the durable and quality outdoor equipment of our long-standing partner, the outdoor outfitter Tatonka.

Hiking backpack

With a suitable hiking backpack your tour on the Rothaarsteig is twice as much fun! Hiking backpacks offer very comfortable carrying properties through a ventilated carrying system because this ensures that sweat evaporates immediately. They can be fixed with a waist or hip belt and thus sit firmly on the back during every movement. They are also equipped with a practical holder for hiking poles and often also provide a compartment with a hose outlet for a hydration bladder, so liquid supply is ensured at all times.

Here you will find hiking backpacks from the outdoor outfitter Tatonka in different sizes for day hikes and multi-day tours and with different ventilated back systems.

First aid kit

To ensure you can enjoy your hike on the Rothaarsteig without restrictions, a first aid kit definitely belongs in your backpack. After all, nothing is more annoying than not being able to properly treat a blister on your foot or small injuries immediately. The first aid kits from Tatonka are filled with all important materials for initial treatment of injuries and also contain an "outdoor cheat sheet" with a concise and clear guideline for the correct behavior in emergencies in the open nature. Here you find the first aid kits from Tatonka!

Food and drinks

On some stages, especially between Lahnhof and Dillenburg, unfortunately, no refreshment possibilities are located along the way. Remember especially here to pack food and drinks. Especially in summer, adequate fluid intake is important.

The stainless steel bottles, stainless steel insulated jugs and stainless steel lunchboxes from Tatonka are not only practical but also unbreakable and durable.

You can reach Hilchenbach-Lützel by train. Unfortunately, the Lahn source is not served by public transport. Here you have to use a taxi, which takes you to the nearest station at Rudersdorf. From there you can catch the train towards Gießen or Siegen. You can order a taxi via the toll hotline 22456 (mobile number for taxi orders throughout Germany). The Rothaarsteig quality establishments often offer a shuttle service for you and your luggage. It’s best to inquire about options and costs directly when booking.

More information can be found at www.bahn.de. 

To prepare for your hike, we will gladly send you our free information package. At www.rothaarsteig.de/prospekte you can easily select which information you need. A good companion for every route is our brochure "Rothaarsteig Guide" with the hosts along the trail and further useful information. 

The Rothaarsteig recommends:

• Hikeline hiking guide: Long distance hiking trail Rothaarsteig - From Brilon in Sauerland across the Rothaar mountain ridge to Dillenburg
• Conrad Stein Publishing: Rothaarsteig hiking guide – long distance trail. Rothaarsteig from Brilon to Dillenburg by Amrei Risse
• Rother mountain publishing: Rother hiking guide Rothaarsteig. With Sauerland high flight and Sauerland forest route by Matthias Schopp

• Ginsburg
• Gillerbergturm
• Iron Road
• Hohenroth Forest House
• Eder source
• Sieg source
• Lahn source

Guest establishments:

• Hotel Ginsberger Heide
• Hotel-Gasthof Siebel
• Country Hotel Edermühle
• Romantic Country Hotel Doerr
• Hotel in the Auerbach Valley
• Country Inn at the Sieg source
• Hotel Fünf10
• Guesthouse at Rothaarsteig

Information about the rescue signs on the Rothaarsteig

Mostly, hiking trails run away from towns and villages and everyone who hikes has surely wondered what would happen if there was now an emergency. How can I be found here? Where exactly am I? Can emergency services reach me?

In an emergency, time is of the essence! Therefore, the Rothaarsteig is continuously equipped with so-called rescue signs. The green-white plaques, which are attached to the posts of the signposts, bear a number you must give when making an emergency call. This lets the rescue teams know exactly where you are, saving valuable time.

Note about increased forest fire risk

Please note that due to dryness there is currently an increased forest fire risk! Therefore, please observe the following:

• Observe the legal ban on smoking in the forest - it applies in spring, summer, and autumn, specifically from March 1 to October 31.
• Observe the ban on open fires in the forest and within 100 meters of it.
• Take glass out of the forest - the burning glass effect can cause forest fires.

If it is (too) late:

• Extinguish small fires if it is safe for you. Carefully check the spot if necessary.
• Report fires via "112".
• Leave the danger zone by the shortest route.

The forest thanks you!

Rothaarsteig hiking map at a scale of 1:50,000

• Divided into two sheets (North sheet / South sheet)
• 10th edition - Current route guidance
• With marked shelters, viewpoints, bus stops, parking lots and more.
• Free shipping in the Rothaarsteig hiking shop