Children's adventure path Sieg | Squirrel Trail | Niederfischbach

Description

Emil Squirrel has lost his entire winter stock and needs your help! Searching for the nut hiding place, you get to know Emil Squirrel and his family. You learn how they live and how the squirrel kids grow up. What is a bushy tail actually good for? Why do squirrels store a winter stock and why is Emil's stock missing? Does Emil have enemies? On the short circular trail with information boards along the path, you will find out.

Approach

A560 with connection B478 to Waldbröl, then follow L336 towards Morsbach, continue on to Niederfischbach.

Public transport

Line 290 (VRM) (Freudenberg – Niederfischbach – Betzdorf), Niederfischbach Markt stop, from here about 1000 m walk to the starting point at the animal park.

Current departure times Niederfischbach stop

Parking

Free hiking parking lot at the Niederfischbach Animal Park, Schlesingstrasse, 57572 Niederfischbach

Directions

Short stroller-friendly hike without significant inclines along the Otterbach, on old, well-maintained paths dating back to the mining and ore smelting era.

From the parking lot below the animal park, you walk along soft forest paths by the Otterbach. The first section of the path follows the Niederfischbach Mining Trail. Along the way, you will discover small artworks by a local chainsaw carver, including Owl Bench, Squirrel, and Green Man. Light filters through the branches of the deciduous trees lining the path, and to your right, the Otterbach babbles. The route passes through more forest sections and leads to a large crossroads. Fascinating hollow paths impress along the way, passing through rock walls several meters high. The hike continues to the Fischbacher Werk, a former iron ore and lead ore mine that was still in operation until 1902. At the height of the site, crisscrossed by many small paths, the trail takes a detour and now descends on the opposite side of the Otterbach. Soon you reach a barbecue area with playground equipment for children. This is a good spot for a short break. Behind the barbecue area, another walk begins on a beautiful forest path through the woods. Shortly after passing a small pond, the landscape opens up—a lush green meadow accompanies your way. Upon reaching the sports field, the endpoint is already in sight. After the hike, a visit to the animal park is worthwhile.

Safety instructions

In winter months, path quality may be impaired in some sections due to timber extraction work. Especially in autumn, be aware that fallen leaves on the ground can cover unevenness, roots, stones, or holes in the path.

Equipment

The path is suitable for strollers.
It is advisable to bring food in a backpack as there is no place to eat.

On the children's adventure trail, you need sturdy shoes, curiosity, and fun discovering!

Tips

Along the way, there is a barbecue area with playground equipment. After the hike, visit the Niederfischbach Animal Park. The animal park runs an arche program to preserve original domestic animal breeds and has its own falconry.

Destination

Hiking parking lot at Niederfischbach Animal Park, Schlesingstraße, 57572 Niederfischbach (50°51’00.9"N7°53’16.2"E)

Starting Point

Hiking parking lot at Niederfischbach Animal Park, Schlesingstraße, 57572 Niederfischbach (50°51’00.9"N7°53’16.2"E)