Rothaarsteig from Irmgarteichen to Rodenbach

The Rothaarsteig follows numerous nature trails away from agricultural and forest roads. Therefore, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear are a must for every hike. After all, we want you to experience the “Path of the Senses” not only with “dry” feet but also with “steady” ones.

In our small hiking shop atwww.rothaarsteig.de/shop, you’ll also find a selection of Rothaarsteig merchandise to help you prepare for your hike or to take home as a souvenir. We’re also happy to recommend the durable, high-quality outdoor gear from our long-standing partner, the outdoor equipment supplierTatonka.

Hiking Backpack

With the right hiking backpack, your hike on the Rothaarsteig will be twice as much fun! Hiking backpacks offer exceptional comfort thanks to a ventilated carrying system, which ensures that sweat can evaporate immediately. They can be secured with a chest or hip strap, ensuring they stay firmly against your back with every movement. They’re also equipped with a practical holder for hiking poles and often feature a compartment with a hose outlet for a hydration bladder, ensuring you stay hydrated at all times.

Here you’ll find hiking backpacks from the outdoor gear manufacturer Tatonka in various sizes for day hikes and multi-day trips, featuring different ventilated back systems.

Rain Gear

If the forecast calls for changeable weather on your hike along the Rothaarsteig, remember to pack alightweight rain jacket or a rain poncho. They take up virtually no space in your backpack and also keep out unpleasant wind. Gaiters are also practical, as they protect your pant legs from dirt and moisture. At our partner, the outdoor gear supplier Tatonka, you’ll find high-quality, breathable rain jackets that pack down to a minimal size, lightweight rain capes, and gaiters for your pant legs to keep them protected from dirt and moisture. 

Find Tatonka’s rain jackets for women here

You can find Tatonka’s rain jackets for men here

First-Aid Kit

To ensure you can fully enjoy your hike on the Rothaarsteig, it’s a good idea to pack afirst-aid kitin your backpack. After all, nothing is more frustrating than not being able to immediately and properly treat a blister on your foot or minor injuries. Tatonka’s first-aid kits are stocked with all the essential supplies for treating injuries and also include an “outdoor cheat sheet” with concise and clear guidelines on how to respond to emergencies in the great outdoors. 

Find Tatonka’s first-aid kits here!

Food and Drinks

On some sections of the trail, especially between Lahnhof and Dillenburg, there are unfortunately no places to stop for refreshments along the way. Be sure to pack food and drinks, especially for these sections. Staying hydrated is particularly important in the summer.

The stainless-steel bottles, stainless-steel insulated jugs, and stainless-steel lunch boxes from outdoor gear supplier Tatonka are not only practical but also unbreakable and durable.

Information About the Emergency Signs on the Rothaarsteig

Hiking trails usually run away from towns and settlements, and anyone who hikes has surely wondered at some point what would happen if an emergency were to occur. How can I be found here? Where am I, anyway? Can emergency services reach me?

But in an emergency, time is of the essence! That’s why the Rothaarsteig is equipped with so-called emergency signs along its entire length. The green-and-white plaques attached to the signposts feature a number that you must provide when making an emergency call. This allows emergency responders to know exactly where you are, saving valuable time.

Note on the Increased Risk of Wildfires

Please be aware that due to dry conditions, there is currently an increased risk of wildfires! Therefore, please observe the following guidelines:

• Comply with the legal ban on smoking in the forest—it applies in spring, summer, and fall, specifically from March 1 through October 31.


• Observe the ban on open fires in the forest and within 100 meters of the forest.


• Take any glass with you when you leave the forest—the magnifying effect of glass can trigger forest fires.

If it’s (too) late:

• Extinguish small fires as they start, if you can do so safely. If necessary, check the area carefully.


• Report fires by calling “112.”


• Leave the danger zone by the shortest route.

The forest will thank you!

• Dillquelle


• "Nose in the Wind" Viewing Platform on the Tiefenrother Höhe


• Hauberg Trail


• Lucas Oak Natural Monument

Host

• Jokebes Inn & Guesthouse


• Wilgersdorf Guesthouse, LLC


• Mechels Guest Apartments


• Hotel "Windeck"

To help you prepare for your hike, we’d be happy to send you our free information packet. Atwww.rothaarsteig.de/prospekte, you can easily select the information you need. Our brochure “Rothaarsteig Guide” is a great companion for any hike, featuring accommodations along the trail and other useful information. 

The original Rothaarsteig hiking map at a scale of 1:50,000 on waterproof paper, featuring up-to-date trail routes and useful markings such as mountain huts, parking lots, bus stops, and much more. You can conveniently order it online atwww.rothaarsteig.de/wanderkarte for 11.00 euros with free shipping right to your door.

• Irmgarteichen is served by various bus routes, including those coming from Siegen. You can reach Siegen by train, for example.


• Rodenbach has its own train station. From there, you can travel toward Siegen and Dillenburg.

For more information, visitwww.bahn.de.

We recommend using public transportation at the start of your hike and leaving a car at the end point. That way, you won’t have to worry about bus or train schedules during your hike.

Free hiking parking lots are available in both Irmgarteichen and Rodenbach.