Because of Wernigerode's location on the edge of the Harz mountains, it offers many opportunities for getting out and experiencing nature at close hand, whether on a long walk, in the Christianental wildlife park with its abundance of indigenous species, or on the narrow-gauge railways, which take visitors on an extraordinary journey through the Harz.Experience the Harz – walking trails
There are numerous walking trails that lead from Wernigerode into the immediate surroundings and to neighbouring towns and villages. Whether they're circular routes, themed trails or cycle paths, all have their own charm.Harz narrow-gauge railways
A network of narrow-gauge railways on which most of the trains are hauled by steam locomotives criss-crosses the eastern part of the Harz. The Harzquerbahn railway begins its journey in Wernigerode, its final destination Nordhausen in Thuringia, 60km away. Even today this stretch still conjures up the atmosphere of the 19th century. Other railways include the Brockenbahn, which puffs its way up to the summit of fabled Mount Brocken, and the Selketalbahn, which meanders its way through romantic landscapes from its starting point of Gerngerode.Christianental wildlife park
These eight hectares are known as the "Gateway to the Upper Harz National Park", and are home to many species of animal indigenous to Germany, such as birds of prey, wildcats and game. On top of this the wildlife park has enormous sequoia trees and other botanical features to see.