- 3:45 h
- 12.67 km
- 240 m
- 240 m
- 408 m
- 529 m
- 121 m
- Start: Niedersorpe hiking portal
- Destination: Niedersorpe hiking portal
A special point of the Sorpe panoramic trail is also the “Knollen” with its old, almost “enchanted” stone quarries through which it passes. But there is much more to see: the art smithy and Gallery Klute in Waldemei and the Schmiedewelten Dünnebacke in Rellmecke, for example, show art from traditional craftsmanship in an impressive natural setting. Nature and views accompany you along the entire panoramic trail through the romantic Sorpe valley.
Good to know
Best to visit
Directions
Niedersorpe - Winkhausen - Knollen - Waldemai - Rellmecke - Niedersorpe
Tour information
Loop Road
Stop at an Inn
Equipment
The Rothaarsteig runs over numerous natural paths away from 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 senses” dry but also on “good” feet.
In our small hiking shop at rothaarsteig.de/shop you will also find a selection of Rothaarsteig articles to prepare for your route or as souvenirs. We also gladly recommend the durable and quality outdoor equipment of our longtime partner, the German outdoor outfitter Tatonka.
Hiking backpack
With a suitable hiking backpack, your hike on the Rothaarsteig is twice as much fun! Hiking backpacks offer very pleasant wearing properties through a ventilated carrying system because it ensures that sweat evaporates immediately. They can be fixed with a belly or hip belt and 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 hose outlet for a hydration bladder, so fluid supply is secured at all times.
Rainwear
If changeable weather is forecast for your hike on the Rothaarsteig, remember to pack a light rain jacket or rain poncho. They take up almost no space in your backpack and also protect against unpleasant wind. Gaiters are also practical to protect your trouser legs from dirt and moisture.
At our partner, the German outdoor outfitter Tatonka, you will find high-quality, breathable rain jackets with minimal packing size, light rain capes, and gaiters for trouser legs, so these are protected from dirt and moisture.
Here you can find the rain jackets from Tatonka for women
The rain jackets from Tatonka for men can be found here
First aid kit
So that you can fully enjoy your hike on the Rothaarsteig, a first aid kit definitely belongs in your backpack for safety reasons. After all, nothing is more annoying than not being able to properly care for a blister on your foot or small injuries immediately.
The first aid kits from the German outdoor outfitter Tatonka are filled with all essential materials for first care of injuries and also contain an “outdoor cheat sheet” with a concise and clear guideline for the correct behavior in emergencies in the outdoors.
Here you can find the first aid kits from Tatonka!
Food and drinks
On some stages, especially between Lahnhof and Dillenburg, there are unfortunately no dining options along the way. Remember to especially pack food and drinks here. Particularly in summer, sufficient drinks are important.
Directions & Parking facilities
Drive from Schmallenberg on the B236 to Winkhausen. Here follow the signs to the L742 to Niedersorpe.
Free parking is located at the entrance to the village (coming from Winkhausen) on the left at the Niedersorpe hiking portal.
The bus line 462 operates in the Sorpe valley. It is best to get off at the stop "Niedersorpe Church".
Exact timetables can be found at www.bahn.de
Additional information
Blog articles about the Sorpe panoramic trail
Further information about the Rothaarsteig is available at www.rothaarsteig.de and by phone at the free service hotline +49 2974 / 499 4163. We are happy to advise you on your personal route planning.
Literature
To prepare for your hike, we will gladly send you our free information package. At rothaarsteig.de/prospekte, you can easily select which information you need. A good companion for every route is our Rothaarsteig guide with the hosts along the trail and other useful info.
Author
Katharina Schwake-Drucks
Organization
Schmallenberger Sauerland Tourismus
License (master data)
Author´s Tip / Recommendation of the author
Gastronomy
- Beverage fridge at the art smithy Dünnebacke in Rellmecke
- Food vending machine of the Müller family in Niedersorpe
Safety guidelines
Information about the rescue panels on the Rothaarsteig
Most hiking trails run away from towns and settlements, and every hiker has wondered what would happen if an emergency occurs now. How can I be found here? Where am I anyway? Can the rescue service reach me?
In an emergency, it must be quick! Therefore, the Rothaarsteig is continuously equipped with so-called rescue signs. On the green-white plaques attached to the posts of the signposts, there is a number that you must provide when making your emergency call. This allows the rescue services to know exactly where you are, saving valuable time.
Note on increased forest fire risk
Please keep in mind that due to the dryness, there is currently an increased risk of forest fire! Please observe the following notices:
- Observe the legal smoking ban in the forest - it applies in spring, summer, and autumn, more precisely: from March 1 to October 31.
- Observe the ban on open fire in and within 100 meters of the forest.
- 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 safely possible for you. Check the area carefully if necessary.
- Report fires via "112".
- Leave the danger area by the shortest route.
The forest thanks you!
Map
In our brochure “Rothaarsteig-Spuren - All circular hiking trails at a glance” you will find map sections for all 13 circular hiking trails, brief explanations, and also a map for the Breitscheider cave tour. In addition, the other 12 Rothaarsteig-Spuren with maps, brief explanations, and the most beautiful rest areas along the route are also shown here. You can conveniently and free of charge order the booklet to your home or view it online as a PDF or flip catalog at rothaarsteig.de/prospekte.
We also recommend our Rothaarsteig-Spuren hiking pass. Those who have hiked 8 of the total 13 trails receive a hiking certificate as well as a Rothaarsteig pin and participate in our annual raffle. You can also easily order the hiking pass free of charge to your home or download it directly online at rothaarsteig.de/prospekte.
The original Rothaarsteig hiking map in scale 1:50000 on waterproof paper, with current trail guidance and useful markings such as shelters, parking lots, bus stops, and much more, can be ordered free of shipping costs for 11.00 euros and delivered conveniently to your home at rothaarsteig.de/wanderkarte.
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