Cologne District
HeinsbergErkelenzForest trail in Scherresbruch (Haberger Busch)
Cologne District
HeinsbergErkelenzForest trail in Scherresbruch (Haberger Busch)
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Cycling
4.3
(66)
The Scherresbruch, Haberger Busch is a significant nature reserve (Naturschutzgebiet) located in the district of Heinsberg, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This protected area, spanning nearly 58 hectares, is renowned for its highly fragmented and diverse landscape, encompassing forest areas on the slopes of the Kaiserberg hill and picturesque wooded stream valleys between Lövenich and Baal. Situated within the Jülicher Börde natural region, it serves as a crucial ecological stepping stone, connecting various forest habitats in the area.
Visitors are particularly drawn…
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
May 24, 2022
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Forest trail in Scherresbruch (Haberger Busch)
4.6
(17)
72
riders
49.2km
03:02
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(10)
30
riders
28.6km
01:53
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(12)
30
riders
44.6km
02:47
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.30 km
Uphill 30 m
Downhill 30 m
Weather
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Monday 16 March
13°C
7°C
31 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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The trails feature varied terrain, including well-developed terraces and some sections with drops of over 20 meters, particularly on the slopes of the Kaiserberg hill and in the wooded stream valleys. You'll encounter forest paths, and sturdy footwear is recommended for comfortable navigation.
Absolutely! Key natural features include the unique alder carr forests, especially prominent in the northern part of the reserve, and large stands of giant horsetail. You'll also find diverse deciduous trees like beech, oak, sycamore, and ash. The Baller Bach/Nüsterbach stream traverses the area, and a small pond at the forest's edge is known for its coypu and ducks.
While specific designated parking for the nature reserve isn't always explicitly signposted, visitors typically find suitable spots near the reserve's edges. It's often easiest to look for parking when approaching from nearby towns such as Erkelenz or Hückelhoven.
The research indicates that the state road L 117 runs along its southwestern edge and the B 57 lies to its west, suggesting road access. For specific public transport options like bus stops, it's advisable to check local transport schedules for routes serving the areas around Erkelenz, Hückelhoven, or Baal, as direct stops within the reserve might be limited.
Yes, the area is considered family-friendly. It offers a peaceful escape into nature with numerous hiking trails suitable for various activity levels. The chance to spot coypu and ducks at the pond can be a particular highlight for children.
While the area is generally welcoming to outdoor enthusiasts, specific dog rules for the Naturschutzgebiet (nature reserve) are not detailed in the provided information. As a general best practice in nature reserves, it's recommended to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
The reserve is a valuable habitat for rare plants and animals of wet and moist forests. A notable highlight for visitors is the presence of coypu living harmoniously with ducks at a small pond on the edge of the forest. These creatures are surprisingly tame and can offer a delightful viewing experience.
The nature reserve is located near the cities of Erkelenz and Hückelhoven. These towns, and other surrounding villages like Lövenich and Baal, would be the best places to look for cafes, pubs, and accommodation options to complement your visit to Scherresbruch, Haberger Busch.
The area has a long history as a persistent forest landscape, with its woodland status documented as far back as the Tranchot map of 1806 and tracing back to late medieval times. Historically, the alder carr forests were utilized as coppice forests. It was officially designated as a nature reserve (Naturschutzgebiet) in 1980, highlighting its ecological importance.
Yes, for cyclists, the cycle paths in the area are well signposted, making navigation straightforward. This allows for enjoyable cycling through the diverse landscape of the nature reserve and its surroundings.
Conservation efforts in the area are primarily focused on preserving and promoting the near-natural alder carr forest by optimizing moisture conditions and maintaining the structural diversity of this enclosed forest area. This also includes regulating and restoring the water balance and carefully converting poplar stands into site-appropriate deciduous forests.