Hochschulsport-Programm

We hike through the Hessian Rhön Nature Park and the Rhön Biosphere Reserve to the Wasserkuppe.

The Rhön is known to offer wonderful hiking trails in the midst of nature! Enjoy the marvellous surroundings and explore the Rhön nature reserve all the way to the Wasserkuppe.

Course leader/ photo: Nils Runkel

Meeting point and start

We will meet at 7.45 am at Fulda railway station (main entrance downstairs, in front of the bakery). Departure is at 8.19 am with the regional train RB52 (HLB) (you will receive detailed information by e-mail) to Gersfeld. From there we will start our hike at around 9.00 am.

Hiking route

Depending on the route and weather conditions, the hiking distance is between 22 and 23 kilometres. We start in Gersfeld and walk in the direction of Oberhof, past the Eube-Berg (820 m) to the Guckaisee. From there, the trail climbs steeply uphill to the Pferdskopf (875 m) and then continues slightly to the side, below the Wasserkuppe, to the Abtsrodaer Kuppe (905 m).

We reach the Wasserkuppe (950 m) around midday and take a break of around 50 minutes.

After the break, the hike continues along the Wasserkuppe to the Radom. From there, an impressive view of the Rhön plain opens up on a clear day. From here, the trail continues downhill towards Rotes Moor.

Once we reach the moorland circular trail, another marvellous view over the Rhön valley awaits us. From there, we hike through the picturesque Kaskadenschlucht gorge back to Gersfeld.

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Important information

You should have a certain basic fitness level, but no other special requirements are necessary. The route includes three ascents: a slightly longer but moderate ascent at the start, followed by two shorter but steeper sections. The hike then runs continuously downhill into the valley.

Please wear sturdy, well-worn shoes and bring suitable clothing depending on the weather. We hike in all weathers!

You should also bring food and water. Hiking poles are recommended but not a must.

Students please do not forget your semester ticket for the train journey! External students pay for the train journey to Gersfeld and back themselves; group tickets can be purchased if necessary.

Timetable

We expect to need between 6 and 7 hours for the entire route, so that we will arrive back at Gersfeld station at around 16:00 and then take the train back to Fulda.

Further route information:

Elevation profile: (485 m to 950 m), difference in altitude approx. 465 m, total ascent approx. 973 m

map and elevation profile.pdf

Please note:
In most cases you can contact the course leader by clicking on the name of the course leader.

Here's our free sports partner exchange

The alternative date will only take place if the previous date has to be cancelled due to extremely bad weather. Anyone who is registered for the main date can decide whether he/she can and would like to attend the alternative date in the event of cancellation. The enquiry will be sent by email.

Here's our free sports partner exchange