Münster District
Ruhr RegionSchnettker Bridge — south side
Münster District
Ruhr RegionSchnettker Bridge — south side
Highlight • Bridge
Hiking
4.5
(115)
Road cycling
4.2
(96)
Mountain biking
4.5
(91)
Cycling
3.0
(3)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Running
5.0
(1)
The Schnettkerbrücke Südseite marks the southern section of the impressive Schnettkerbrücke, a vital autobahn bridge spanning the Emscher valley on the western edge of Dortmund, Germany. This modern engineering marvel, standing at an elevation of approximately 84 meters, connects the Dortmund Rücken with the northern foothills of the Ardey Mountains. It is a crucial part of the Bundesautobahn 40 (A40), featuring a striking carmine-red steel arch and dedicated pedestrian and cycling paths that make it accessible for exploration.
Visitors are…
Tips
January 4, 2017
Hiking
November 10, 2020
Road cycling
January 3, 2025
Hiking

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Schnettker Bridge — south side
Details
Informations
Elevation 80 m
Weather
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Tuesday 9 June
17°C
9°C
64 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
Most visited during
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From the elevated pedestrian and cycling paths on the Schnettkerbrücke Südseite, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Emscher valley, the surrounding urban landscape of Dortmund, and the distant Ardey Mountains. You can also spot the allotment gardens below, the railway tracks, and even the iconic Westfalenstadion in the distance. The striking carmine-red steel arch of the bridge itself is a prominent feature.
While the bridge itself is primarily a cycling and walking path, it serves as a crucial access point to various trails. You can connect to the Emscher Valley trails, which are part of broader cycling networks like the Emscher Cycle Route. These routes allow for exploration of the revitalized Emscher area and its industrial heritage.
The bridge deck itself offers a flat and smooth surface, making it easy for walking and cycling. However, connecting trails in the Emscher Valley or towards the Ardey Mountains may present varied terrain, including paved paths, gravel, and potentially some gentle inclines or declines as you move away from the immediate bridge area.
Yes, the Schnettkerbrücke Südseite is considered family-friendly. The dedicated pedestrian and cycling paths on the bridge are safe and easy for children to navigate. The connection to the Emscher Cycle Route and other green spaces provides opportunities for leisurely family walks or bike rides away from heavy traffic.
Generally, dogs are welcome on the pedestrian and cycling paths of the Schnettkerbrücke Südseite and the surrounding Emscher Valley trails. It is always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially on the bridge due to shared use with cyclists, and to clean up after them to maintain the cleanliness of the area.
While specific dedicated parking for the Schnettkerbrücke Südseite itself might be limited due to its nature as a major traffic artery, visitors typically find parking in nearby residential areas or designated parking lots within walking or cycling distance. Public transport is often a more convenient option for accessing the bridge.
The Schnettkerbrücke Südseite is well-integrated into Dortmund's public transport network. Several bus and tram lines serve the areas surrounding the bridge. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the most convenient stops that provide access to the pedestrian and cycling paths.
As the bridge is primarily a transport infrastructure, there are no direct cafes, pubs, or accommodation facilities on the bridge itself. However, due to its proximity to Dortmund's city center and surrounding districts, you will find various dining and lodging options within a short walk, cycle, or public transport ride from the bridge.
The Schnettkerbrücke Südseite is accessible year-round. However, the best time for walking and cycling is typically during spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is mild and the views are clearest. Winter visits can also be pleasant, but ensure paths are clear of ice and snow, and dress appropriately.
Yes, the dedicated pedestrian and cycling paths on the Schnettkerbrücke Südseite are designed to be flat and smooth, making them generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. This allows a wide range of visitors to enjoy the bridge's architecture and views.
The original Schnettkerbrücke was built in 1931, with a pedestrian and cycle path added in 1946, becoming a key link to the Technical University. The current structure, completed in 2012, replaced the older bridge which could no longer handle the increasing traffic load of the A40. During its construction in 2009, fossilized remains of a predatory dinosaur were even discovered, adding a unique historical footnote.