Views, insights, vistas - hiking tips for the day "Wilderness Trail Stage 2"

The second stage of the Wilderness Trail is all about fascinating views. Not that these are neglected on the other three stages - but there are some particularly beautiful ones here, such as the view over the open Dreiborn plateau, which is illuminated by the bright yellow of the flowering broom in early summer. Or the panoramic views of the Eifel lake district. The former Nazi Ordensburg Vogelsang provides historical insights. Nature lovers can find out more about the national park at the "Wildnis(t)räume" exhibition.

Over a distance of 20 kilometers, the stage runs from Einruhr to Gemünd past extensive bodies of water, fragrant flower meadows and deep green forests.

Good to know: The stage is signposted with the stylized wildcat symbol. There are a few meters of elevation gain and the trail is challenging in places. A good basic level of fitness is required.

The tour at a glance

The trail starts at the Einruhr National Park information point. First, the trail runs along the eastern shore of the Obersee up to the Urft dam, which was considered the highest dam in Europe at the time of its construction. This is followed by a steeper ascent, which is rewarded with fantastic views of the grassland on the Dreiborn plateau. Always one foot in front of the other, the route passes the deserted village of Wollseifen and the former Nazi Ordensburg Vogelsang. Are your feet slowly but surely getting heavy? The two viewpoints at Kickley and Modenhübel are perfect for a short breather. Then it's downhill into the Urfttal valley and to Gemünd, where you can end the day in comfort. You will find restaurants and cafés along the route in Einruhr, Vogelsang and Gemünd.

Some highlights of the second stage of the Wilderness Trail are ...

... the views of the Eifel lake district

... the imposing Urft dam wall

... the village of Wollseifen

... the former NS-Ordensburg Vogelsang

... the Eifel view Modenhübel and the viewpoint Kickley