Wesel-Datteln Canal at Junction 34

Nice bike path along the canal with numerous ship encounters.

Without wind, the paths along the canal are always beautiful. Sometimes more sometimes less bumpy.

The Wesel-Datteln Canal is an important waterway in North Rhine-Westphalia that connects the Rhine near Wesel with the Dortmund-Ems Canal near Datteln. The canal was built between 1915 and 1930 and is about 60 kilometers long. It is an important part of the German inland waterway network and is mainly used to transport goods such as coal, ore and building materials between the Ruhr area and the Rhine.The Wesel-Datteln Canal runs parallel to the Lippe and passes through several towns and communities, including Marl, Dorsten and Haltern am See. There are numerous locks along the canal that compensate for the difference in height between the Rhine and the Dortmund-Ems Canal and regulate shipping traffic. The locks are impressive structures and important hubs for shipping.In addition to its economic importance, the Wesel-Datteln Canal is also a popular local recreation area. The riverside paths along the canal are very popular with cyclists, walkers and joggers. There are numerous opportunities to enjoy nature and explore the region's industrial past. The canal also offers ideal conditions for water sports such as canoeing and rowing.