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Harz

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Forest
—°10
Harz (Germany)

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The Harz is Germany's northernmost low mountain range, spanning the states of Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia. It is approximately 110 kilometers long and up to 40 kilometers wide. Its highest peak is the Brocken at 1,141 meters, which is legendary due to its exposed position and frequent fog, often associated with tales of witches and folklore. Historically, the Harz was one of Europe's most significant mining regions, particularly for silver, copper, and lead; the Rammelsberg mine is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Geologically, the mountains consist of a complex mixture of granite, slate, and graywacke. The Harz National Park, formed in 2006 by merging two existing parks, protects vast stretches of spruce and beech forests. The Harz Narrow Gauge Railways, with a network exceeding 140 kilometers, are a technical highlight of the region. Today, the Harz is a vital year-round tourist destination for hiking, skiing, and cultural exploration.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C01491316191814951
Rain mm684550386661856358566167

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The Harz region is extremely accessible via numerous train lines, such as the famous narrow-gauge railway, and major road networks connecting key base towns like Wernigerode, Goslar, and Quedlinburg to the scenic forest interior.
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Best season
Summer provides optimal, reliable conditions for extensive hiking and exploring the deep forests. Winter distinctly transforms the higher altitudes into a highly popular destination for alpine skiing, snowboarding, and winter walks.
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Terrain & paths
The diverse terrain ranges from dense, dark spruce forests and steep rocky river valleys to the exposed, windswept summit of the Brocken. Trails vary significantly from flat, easy strolls to physically demanding, steep mountain climbs.
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What to bring
Sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots and highly reliable rain protection are absolutely essential, as the mountain weather changes rapidly. In winter, specialized gear like micro-spikes or snowshoes are often necessary for higher trails.
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Parking
A vast number of well-organized, designated parking areas are strategically located near popular trailheads, cable car stations, and within the surrounding national park boundary towns, though fees usually apply.
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Safety
The weather near the high Brocken summit is notoriously unpredictable, often bringing sudden fog and plunging temperatures. Hikers should remain firmly on marked paths to avoid treacherous, hidden rocky crevices and steep drops.
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Time needed
While it is possible to enjoy a short, scenic half-day walk near the valleys, visitors frequently plan comprehensive multi-day trekking vacations to fully experience the extensive trail networks and various historical sights.

Geography

Coordinates
51.77000, 10.60000

Facts

  • The Brocken is northern Germany's highest mountain at 1,141 meters.
  • Harz Narrow Gauge Railways operate 25 steam locomotives regularly.
  • Rammelsberg mine was in continuous operation for over 1,000 years.
  • Harz National Park covers approximately 24,700 hectares of land.
  • Goethe climbed the Brocken three times in total (first in 1777).
  • Upper Harz Water Regale is the largest pre-industrial dam system.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

BrockenBrocken4 km · NExplore →
📍Braunlage5 km · SExplore →
SchierkeSchierke5 km · EExplore →
Sankt AndreasbergSankt Andreasberg9 km · SWExplore →
📍Ilsenburg12 km · NEExplore →
📍Bad Harzburg13 km · NExplore →
Harz National Park (Saxony-Anhalt)Harz National Park (Saxony-Anhalt)13 km · SEExplore →
WernigerodeWernigerode14 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Harz (10)

Sandbrinkklippen

Sandbrinkklippen are cliffs in the Harz. They offer a wide view of the mountains.

Kanzelklippe

Kanzelklippe is a prominent cliff in the Harz. It provides a good viewpoint.

Rabenklippe

Rabenklippe is a cliff about 1000 m south of the Brocken in the municipality of Wernigerode.

Wurmberg-Murmelbahn

Wurmberg-Murmelbahn is a summer toboggan run on the Wurmberg mountain.

Stangenklippe

Stangenklippe is a cliff in the Harz. It is located in a forested area.

Schluftkopf

Schluftkopf is a peak in the Harz. It is situated near Braunlage.

Bodesprung

Bodesprung is a spring in the Harz. The river Bode originates here.

Wurmberg

Wurmberg is a mountain in the Harz. It is a popular hiking destination.

NSG Wurmberg

NSG Wurmberg is a nature reserve in the Harz. It protects the environment around Wurmberg.

Wurmbergturm🗼 tower

Wurmbergturm is an observation tower on top of the Wurmberg. It features a panoramic view.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How do you get to the summit of the Brocken?
On foot, by bike, or traditionally with the Brocken Railway (steam train) from Wernigerode.
What do witches have to do with the Harz?
According to legend, witches gather on the Brocken (Blocksberg) on Walpurgis Night to dance.
What is the Harz Witches' Trail?
A 94 km long-distance hiking trail crossing the Harz from Osterode to Thale via the Brocken.
Can you go underground in the Harz?
Yes, the Rammelsberg mine in Goslar is a UNESCO World Heritage site and provides exciting tours.
Where is the longest suspension bridge?
The 'Titan-RT' at the Rappbode Dam is over 450 meters long and hangs 100 meters above the abyss.
Harz: where is it located?
Harz is located in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.
Harz: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sandbrinkklippen, Kanzelklippe, Rabenklippe.
Harz: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Harz: why is it worth visiting?
The Harz is Germany's northernmost low mountain range, spanning the states of Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia.
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