쇠세탈스페레 최고의 사이클링 경로

The Entensumpf (Duck Pond) is a small, former mining pond in the Upper Harz Mountains. It lies in a wooded area southeast of Clausthal-Zellerfeld, about 200 meters south of Federal Highway 242. Just a few dozen meters downstream from its source, the Innerste River is dammed here for the first time. The pond was created in the 17th century as the Upper Innerste or New Benedict Pond. It served as the water supply for the Neue Benedicte ore mine, the easternmost mine in the Burgstätter mining district, which operated until 1855. A system of ditches also allowed water to be channeled into the Hirschler Pond. After mining operations ceased, the pond, now known as the Rathsteich (Council Pond), was repurposed to supply Clausthal-Zellerfeld with drinking water via a wooden aqueduct. The approximately eight-meter-high dam was constructed using traditional Upper Harz building techniques and was later modified. The Entensumpf's elongated shape is striking: while reaching a length of up to 190 meters, its maximum width is only about 45 meters. The water surface covers only 0.35 hectares. For a long time, the pond was surrounded by dense forest, but forest regeneration has transformed its appearance into a brighter, more open space. The duck pond now appears largely natural, as the dam has blended harmoniously into the landscape over the centuries. The water level fluctuates considerably with the seasons; at full capacity, the water level is approximately 603.70 meters above sea level.

The railway line to Clausthal was closed in 1976, and with it the railway station.

It must be very beautiful in summer.

A beautiful path, very pleasant to walk, and the view is magnificent. Yes, the Harz Mountains are unfortunately very dry and damaged. I keep reminding myself that where I can now admire towns and the Brocken from a distance, there used to be only trees.

The route we chose was truly strenuous, with gradients of up to 19% and, in places, truly rough and difficult terrain. But the view makes up for all the pain.

From here you can cycle along the former railway line to Clausthal-Zellerfeld.

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Walk across the dam