Schellenberger Wald
A sprawling urban forest near Lake Baldeney, offering scenic trails, historic ruins, and breathtaking views. Perfect for hiking, biking, and nature es...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming flowers, fresh air
Schellenberger Wald
Best Time
Blooming flowers, fresh air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling urban forest near Lake Baldeney, offering scenic trails, historic ruins, and breathtaking views. Perfect for hiking, biking, and nature escapes.
"A beautiful urban forest with many well-maintained hiking trails, ideal for relaxing after work."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be uneven and steep, especially after rain. Good hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety .
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs here. Keep them on a leash where required and clean up after them .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Korte Cliffs Viewpoint
Southern edge of the forest
Panoramic views of Lake Baldeney and the surrounding landscape. A must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
Isenburg Castle Ruins
Near the Schellenberg hunting lodge
Explore these well-preserved ruins offering historical insights and elevated perspectives of the lake.
Extensive Trail Network
Throughout the forest
Miles of well-maintained paths perfect for hiking, walking, and mountain biking. Discover hidden gems and enjoy the natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Views and Ruins
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be uneven and steep, especially after rain. Good hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs here. Keep them on a leash where required and clean up after them.
🚴 Mountain Biking Paradise
The forest offers challenging downhill biking routes for experienced riders on its steep northern slopes.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning lake vistas from Korte Cliffs and other viewpoints.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be uneven and steep, especially after rain. Good hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs here. Keep them on a leash where required and clean up after them.
🚴 Mountain Biking Paradise
The forest offers challenging downhill biking routes for experienced riders on its steep northern slopes.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning lake vistas from Korte Cliffs and other viewpoints.
🌳 Explore New Routes
With a vast network, you can find new paths on every visit, making it ideal for regular outings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Schellenberger Wald as a beautiful urban forest perfect for day trips, offering well-maintained trails for hiking and biking, alongside stunning views of Lake Baldeney from spots like Korte Cliffs and the Isenburg Castle ruins. It's a highly recommended natural escape for relaxation and outdoor activities.
"A lovely day trip destination near Essen above Lake Baldeney, quickly and easily accessible on foot.
Head for the public parking lot in front of the Schellenberg hunting lodge and walk to the left of it to the Korte Cliffs. You'll enjoy a beautiful view of the lake.
Just to the right of the parking lot, you'll quickly reach the Isenburg Castle ruins. These are interesting ruins, largely preserved, and also offer a beautiful view of the lake."
Georg U
"A beautiful urban forest with many well-maintained hiking trails. In addition to hiking, the forest is also ideal for mountain biking. The trail network stretches from Stadtwaldplatz and Rellinghausen to the Ruhr peninsula of Heisingen. At the southern edge, you'll find yourself high above Lake Baldeney, offering views of the lake and the opposite district of Fischlaken. The KorteKlippe, a viewing platform, or the Jagdhaus Schellenberg restaurant are ideal for this. For spectacular downhill biking, the steep slopes on the northern shore of the lake are just the thing."
Fabian G.
"Since the pandemic, we go hiking in the forest every Sunday. We keep finding new routes. After 2-2.5 hours you go home refreshed"
Susanne E
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Schellenberger Wald is easily accessible from Essen. Public parking is available near the Schellenberg hunting lodge. It's also a popular destination for day trips from Essen, often combined with visits to Lake Baldeney.
While specific public transport routes directly into the heart of the forest might be limited, it's generally considered a convenient area to reach from Essen, often involving a short walk from nearby bus stops or train stations.
The best way to explore is by foot or mountain bike, utilizing the extensive network of trails. Many visitors enjoy leisurely walks or more strenuous hikes and bike rides.
A common starting point is the public parking lot in front of the Schellenberg hunting lodge, which provides quick access to viewpoints and ruins.
Absolutely! It's often visited in conjunction with Lake Baldeney, the Isenburg Castle ruins, and other nearby natural areas like Baldeneysee.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Schellenberger Wald is a public forest and does not have an entrance fee. Access to the trails and natural areas is free for all visitors.
As a natural forest area, Schellenberger Wald is open 24/7. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to enjoy the scenery.
No, tickets are not required as there is no admission fee. You can visit spontaneously at any time.
General rules for forest areas apply, such as staying on marked trails, not littering, and respecting nature. During periods of high fire risk, specific restrictions might be in place.
There isn't a dedicated visitor center within the forest itself. Information is best gathered online or from local tourism resources before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Korte Cliffs offer spectacular panoramic views of Lake Baldeney. The Isenburg Castle ruins also provide elevated vantage points.
While there are no specific restaurants within the forest itself, the Jagdhaus Schellenberg restaurant is located nearby. Many visitors pack picnics to enjoy amidst nature.
Yes, it's a great place for families. Children can enjoy exploring the trails, discovering nature, and imagining adventures among the trees.
You might encounter various bird species, squirrels, and other small forest animals. The diverse flora also makes it a rich natural environment.
Yes, the forest is popular with mountain bikers, especially the steep slopes on the northern shore of the lake, which offer challenging downhill routes.
📸 📸 Photography
The Korte Cliffs provide stunning panoramic shots of Lake Baldeney. The castle ruins offer historical and scenic photo opportunities. The forest itself, especially during autumn or winter, is very photogenic.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for landscape and nature photography. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant green of the forest.
Look for the interplay of light and shadow through the trees, the textures of bark and leaves, and the expansive views of the lake. Snowfall can transform the forest into a winter wonderland.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and restrictions. It's advisable to check with the relevant authorities before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1 The forest is a great place to reconnect with nature, breathe in the fresh air, and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Discovering new routes is part of the charm, making it ideal for repeat visits.🚴 Mountain Bikers
Ensure you have appropriate gear and are comfortable with technical riding, as some trails can be demanding.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking and Biking Adventures
+1 Trails vary in difficulty, from gentle, well-maintained paths perfect for a leisurely stroll to more challenging, steep routes ideal for experienced mountain bikers seeking an adrenaline rush.Many visitors highlight the joy of discovering new routes on their regular visits, emphasizing the forest's capacity to offer fresh experiences each time.
The sheer scale of the trail system means you can easily spend hours here, enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty.For mountain bikers, the steep slopes on the northern shore of Lake Baldeney are particularly renowned for their downhill potential. These challenging descents offer an exciting experience for those looking for a more adventurous ride. Remember to always prioritize safety and be aware of other trail users.
Scenic Vistas and Historical Echoes
These viewpoints are easily accessible and offer a rewarding experience for anyone seeking natural beauty.Beyond the natural landscapes, the forest also holds historical significance. The Isenburg Castle ruins are a notable attraction, offering a glimpse into the past. These largely preserved ruins are not only historically interesting but also provide additional elevated spots to admire the surrounding area and the lake.
The juxtaposition of natural beauty and historical remnants creates a unique and enriching visit.Many visitors find these spots ideal for relaxation, whether it's enjoying a peaceful moment after a hike or simply taking in the views. The combination of accessible viewpoints and intriguing historical sites makes Schellenberger Wald a multifaceted destination that appeals to a wide range of interests.
Nature's Resilience and Seasonal Beauty
The forest is a delight to explore throughout the year, with each season offering its unique charm. In spring, snowdrops emerge, signaling the arrival of warmer weather.
Summer brings lush greenery and vibrant life, perfect for long hikes. Autumn transforms the landscape into a tapestry of fiery colors, creating a picturesque setting for walks. Even in winter, the forest can be magical, especially when covered in snow, turning into a serene winter wonderland.Whether you're seeking the vibrant blooms of spring, the lushness of summer, the colorful spectacle of autumn, or the quiet beauty of winter, Schellenberger Wald provides a captivating natural escape. The changing seasons ensure that every visit can offer a new and memorable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit