Kästeklippe

One of the most popular hiking destinations in the western northern Harz Mountains is the so-called Kästeklippe - a group of peculiar rock formations above the Oker Valley near the Huthberg. The Kästeklippe has become a popular destination thanks to the outstanding view that can be enjoyed from here after a climb.

History and view

The formation of the Kästeklippe in the Harz Mountains is due to a natural phenomenon that can be found in this form in many corners of the Harz Mountains - the so-called Wollsack weathering. The hard granite stone has therefore been exposed to the weather and development over thousands of years and has finally left its present appearance, which has been visited and marvelled at by many generations. The typical characteristics of wool sack weathering can also be recognised in this case by the rounded, massive stones, which are reminiscent of wool sacks.

At its peak, the Kästeklippe rises 605 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest vantage points in the Harz region. This makes the ascent in particular a bit of a challenge and an adventure for experienced hikers and those who would like to become one. However, the climb is well worth it, as the view of the Oker river valley and the northern Harz foreland with its striking rock formations is particularly impressive.

It is still not certain today, but the excavations in the vicinity of the Kästeklippe indicate that the site has been used as a place of worship for hundreds of years. The Saxons probably also used the cliff for military purposes at times. Today, however, it is mainly nature and the immediate surroundings that cast a spell over many hikers.

Origin of the name Käste

The word "Käste" comes from Old North German and refers to the oak tree, which was of great economic importance to the area at the time. The region's oak wood was once used to make weapons and tools and later became an important commodity. The Kästeklippe therefore takes its name from this once so important tree, which can be found in large numbers in the surrounding area.

Ascent and sights

If you want to enjoy the view from the Kästeklippe with your own eyes, you should be prepared for a challenge on the ascent. Unfortunately, there is no accessibility here and although a bus service runs near the cliff between April and September, you will need to make another ascent from there. Apart from the view that you get here after a successful adventure, the surroundings are also particularly remarkable. A large number of granite rocks can be viewed on a circular walk. These include neighbouring rocks such as the Treppenstein, the Mausefalle and the Hexenküche.

The easiest hiking trail, which is used by most day trippers, leads from the Romkerhall waterfall up to the impressive rocks. From the waterfall, a picturesque circular tour leads past the Kästehaus, through the Hexenküche, over the Feigenbaumklippe and Mausefalle before continuing to the Treppenstein HWN 117. Alternative starting points for a hike to the Kästeklippe are the towns of Bad Harzburg or the Goslar district of Oker.