Strycktal Loop Trail (Willingen)

From the café to “Paradies,” follow the U1 signs for 1.8 km; after 400 m, you’ll reach the Mühlenkopfschanze, the impressive large ski jump in the Strycktal. From the landing area, look up at the inrun tower, which is 120 m higher. Continue toward “Schöne Aussicht,” then turn right across the Itter and walk back along the other side of the stream. From here, follow the W1 signs (toward Stryck, 1.6 km) back to the starting point. The rare ravine forest on the left is designated as the Grebensteine Nature Reserve. It features distinctive primeval-forest-like vegetation. Because of the large boulders, the area is also known as a boulder field forest. Summer linden, mountain elm, and mountain maple grow on rocks of gray clay shale, which are permeated by numerous springs. The high humidity and low temperatures create a montane climate in which alpine plants also thrive in the herbaceous layer. Here one finds large stands of perennial silverleaf (moon violet), as well as daphne, alpine currant, St. Christopher’s herb, March snowdrops, hollow corydalis, scaly root, lobed shield fern, white butterbur, and alpine witch’s herb. Please do not stray from the hiking trail to protect the sensitive natural environment.You will then pass the Mühlenkopfschanze once more and continue on to the starting point.