Olsberg Mining Trail (Quality Hike, "Wanderbares Deutschland")

The route begins at the so-called “Gateway to the Waldroute,” the large parking lot on Langer Berg.If you’re driving, please note that turning off the road from the direction of Olsberg is not permitted.You’ll first need to pull into the right-hand parking bay at the bus stop and watch for oncoming traffic from Brilon.Several information signs at the rest area provide interesting facts about hiking in Olsberg.The hike begins by first crossing the county road.You can follow either the “K” marker for the Kneipp Trail or the “W” for the Waldroute. These two “Wanderbares Deutschland” certified trails run along the same section in this area.After about 2 km downhill, you’ll have a beautiful view of the Kneipp spa town of Olsberg. Before that, you can also spot the Waldhotel zumSchinkenwirt. A stop for refreshments is recommended.Just above the Waldhotel, there are very interesting information panels on the topic of “Olsberg’s Mining History.” Here, the trail turns left.A detour to the Maxstollen is a special experience.The Olsberg Heritage Association has equipped this disused tunnel with information panels and furnished it with benches to create a place of tranquility.The old mining chambers, with their well-preserved wall remnants, offer a unique glimpse into the area’s mining history.You can also use the fresh spring water to “quench your thirst.”The trail continues past the old wall ruins, down the secured forest steps onto the wonderful, natural path.This path also follows the Kneipp Trail and the Waldroute along a scenic stretch with a view of Olsberg all the way to Forstenberg.Follow the signs there.Then turn left. The trail is marked with a “G” (for “Gewerkenweg”)The hiking trail now passes the shepherd’s cross. Here, note the turnoff up a natural trail into the fir grove.This trail leads to the signposted Pingenfelder. You’ll then come to a special viewpoint with a Rothaar climbing bench.The trail continues past the previous turnoff, back uphill to the parking lot.  * Pingenfeld*The “Alte Stollen”* Philippstollen* Eisenberg Viewpoint* Schäferkreuz