Take a Hike

VOLKSMARCHING NOTES

– Got a comment? Found something you’d like to correct? Want to change ‘unknown’ to a useful trail description? Write me at volksmarch@gmail.com with the subject “Feedback KA.”

– Interested in volksmarching but not sure how things work? Send an email message to volksmarch@gmail.com with the subject “Getting Started KA.”

– Many thanks to volksmarchers James Meredith, Johnette Scott, and Pat & Chery Patterson for providing event brochures.

– Take a moment to grab a set of brochures from the Werber table and send them via no-cost MPS to Donald Seltzer, PSC 2 Box 10684, APO AE 09012.

– The postal code is included in the listings for readers using navigation devices. Autobahn exit numbers are being added for those without such devices.

– Would you like to receive Take a Hike at the same time as the newspaper editor? The complete, unedited version of the monthly volksmarching feature is available in its original Word document format by sending an email message to volksmarch@gmail.com with ‘Subscribe KA’ in the subject line.

– Look for additional event choices at www.wiesbaden.army.mil/hunion/Takeahike.htm.

WEEKEND OF MARCH 28-29

Don’t forget to set your clocks ahead one hour before going to bed Saturday night!

Differten (66787) — This walk is west of Saarbrücken. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 620 past Saarbrücken and toward Saarlouis. Exit at Wadgassen (4b) and use minor roads through Wadgassen to the start at Differten.
Start: Bisttalhalle on Pater-Lorson-Straße
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (15 km)
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (15 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Kappel (55483) — This event is in the scenic Hunsrück region west of Bingen, not far from Hahn airport. From Baumholder, take secondary roads to Birkenfeld and pick up B-269 headed north to Morbach. Connect with B-327 and B-50 to Kirchberg, then take B-421 to Kappel and the start. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 62 north toward Trier, exit at Birkenfeld (4), and take B-269 and B-327 through Morbach. Continue onto B-50 to Kirchberg and connect with B-421 to the start at Kappel.
Start: Gemeindehalle
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5, 10 and 15 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Somewhat hilly trails, fields and woods
Award: From previous events.

Mossautal-Hüttenthal (64756) — This event is in the beautiful Odenwald southeast of Darmstadt and offers 33- and 42-km trails in addition to the usual distances. Good weather will make this a pleasant trip. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 toward Mannheim, then continue southward on A6 at Viernheim. Connect with A659 to Weinheim, then continue onto B-38 to Lorzenbach and B-460 to the start at Hüttenthal.
Start: Sporthalle at Güttersbacher Straße 4
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km), 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km), 7-11 a.m. (33 km) and 6:30-9 a.m. (42)
Trail: Very hilly, mostly woods
Award: None or patch, certificate and beer glass (marathon).

Rodenbach (67688) — This walk is just east of the Air Base and is essentially a hometown event for volksmarchers in the KMC. From Autobahn 6, use the Einsiedlerhof (14) or Kaiserslautern-West (15) exits and minor roads to Rodenbach.
Start: Bürgerhaus at Am Fürstengrab 12a
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 11 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (21 km)
Trail: Unknown, but expect wooded trails
Award: From previous events.

Saverne, France (67700) — While distant, the drive is almost entirely on autobahns (albeit a toll road in France) and should be relatively painless to reach. Saverne is not too far from Strasbourg or Haguenau if a visit to those locations will add another reason to make the drive. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken and into France where it becomes A32. Connect with Autoroute A4 toward Strasbourg and use the Saverne exit (45). Follow directional signs to the start.
Start: Salle du COSEC at Place des Dragons
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km) and 7-9 a.m. (30 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Surbourg, France (67250) — Another long drive from the KMC (about an hour and three-quarters), this late afternoon event is in the area north-northeast of Haguenau. The event is a little unusual in that it takes place on a Saturday. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken and 8 toward Zweibrücken. Take the B-10 exit toward Landau to connect with B-427 at Hinterweidenthal. Continue on B-427 to Reichenbach and pick up a minor road winding south past Bobenthal to the border. Continue on D334 to Wissembourg, then use D77 and D3 to reach D263. Head south to Reimerswiller to connect with D243 which leads to the start at Surbourg.
Start: Salle de la Mairie
Saturday: 3-8 p.m. (10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Talange, France (57525) — This event is north of Metz and a long drive from the KMC, but one which takes you past St. Avold and its American Military Cemetery. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken to the border. Continue on French Autoroutes A320/E50 and A4/E25 toward Metz. Connect with A31/E25 north of Metz in the direction Thionville and exit at Talange (36). Follow IVV signs to the start.
Start: Salle Maurice Baquet on Place des fêtes
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10, 15 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

GOOD FRIDAY, APRIL 3

Urexweiler (66646) — This holiday event in the Saarland area west of the KMC will require a day off from work in order enjoy the walk here. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 8 and 1 to reach the Eppelborn exit (141), then use a minor road through Dirmingen to reach the start.
Start: Mehrzweckhalle at Im Brühl 1
Friday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6 and 11 km) 7 a.m. to noon (16 and 21 km)
Trail: Unknown but expect fairly hilly, woods and fields
Award: From previous events.

WEEKEND OF APRIL 4-5

Peterberg-Braunshausen (66620) — Not far from Neubrücke is the event at Braunshausen; wanderers from Baumholder and the KMC should find this walk easy to reach. From Baumholder use Autobahn 62 (at the Freisen on-ramp) toward Neubrücke, then continue on to reach Autobahn 1 south to the Nonnweiler-Braunshausen (137) exit. From the KMC area, use Autobahns 6 and 62 toward Trier, and 1 south toward Saarbrücken. Exit at Nonnweiler-Braunshausen (137) to follow a minor road to Braunshausen.
Start: Gästehaus Braunshausen/Peterberghalle at Peterberg Straße 40
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km)
Trail: Expected to be hilly, woods and fields
Award: None.

EASTER MONDAY, APRIL 6

Eischen, Luxembourg (L-8465) — This event is roughly a two-hour drive from the KMC. It’s located northwest of Luxembourg City and near the Belgium border. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken and 8 toward Saarlouis and Merzig, then on to Perl and the Luxembourg border. Continue on Motorway A13 toward Dudelange, connecting with A3 toward Luxembourg City and A6 toward Belgium. Take exit 1 to use N13 and N6 to Steinfort, then follow CR106 and CR108 to Eischen.
Start: Centre Culturel Jean Wolff at place Denn
Monday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Florange, France (57190) — This holiday event is roughly midway between Metz and Luxembourg City. The drive from the KMC will take at least 90 minutes but it does offer the opportunity to stop at St. Avold for a visit to the beautiful, but sobering, American Military Cemetery. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken to the border. Continue on French Autoroutes A320/E50 and A4/E25 (toll road with automated collection points) toward Metz. Connect with A31 toward Thionville and A30 toward Longwy. Take exit 2 in the direction of Florange and follow IVV signs to the start.
Start: Complexe de Bétange
Monday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Marlenheim, France (67520) — This event is northwest of Strasbourg and about a two-hour drive from the KMC. Its location makes a visit to the historic city of Strasbourg possible. From the KMC, use Autobahns A-6 toward Saarbrücken and the border, French Autoroutes A320 toward Metz and A4 (toll road) toward Strasbourg. Exit at Saverne (45) to connect with D1404 and D1004 south to Marlenheim.
Start: Centre Culturel “Les Roseaux” at 2a rue de l’Usine
Monday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Morbach-Bischofsdhron (54497) — This walk celebrates Easter Monday with an event close to Idar-Oberstein. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken and 62 toward Trier. Exit at Birkenfeld (4) to use B-41 to connect with B-269. Follow B-269 north to Morbach and the start at Bischofsdhron. From Baumholder, use minor roads to Birkenfeld and B-269. Head north to the towns of Morbach and Bischofsdhron to reach the start.
Start: Gemeindehaus at Zur Rau 2
Monday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 km), 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Hilly, woods; short trail has been stroller-friendly in the past
Award: None.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8

Gilsdorf, Luxembourg (L-9371) — This midweek event is west-southwest of Bitburg and perfect for taking a Wednesday off from work. Expect the drive from the KMC to be about two hours. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 62, and 1 toward Trier, then 602 and 64 to the Luxembourg border. Continue on Motorway A1 to Potaschbierg (exit 13), then use N1 and N14 through Medernach to Gilsdorf.
Start: Centre polyvalent on rue des Jardins
Wednesday: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (6 and 11 km) and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (21 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Meisenthal, France (57960) — This Wednesday French event is south of Zweibrücken and, with good weather, a great reason to call in sick and take the kids on a walk. The drive from the KMC should be scenic but long. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken and Zweibrücken. Exit at Contwig (34) in the direction of Bitche. Continue on a secondary road to the border to connect with D35A in France, heading south toward Bitche. Pick up and use D620, D37 through Gretzenbruck, and D83 to the start at Meisenthal.
Start: Salle des fêtes at Place de la Poste
Wednesday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF APRIL 11-12

Altwiller, France (67260) — This event is south of Saarbrücken in France. The drive from Kaiserslautern is a little less than 90 minutes. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 toward Saarbrücken, then briefly use A620 to exit onto B51 south toward Kleinblittersdorf and the border. At Kleinblittersdorf, take a minor road across the Saar River into France. Pick up N61 to Sarralbe, then use D661, D28, D28J and D23 to reach Altwiller.
Start: Salle polyvalente on Route de Bonnefontaine
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Rhaunen (55624) — This walk is in the Hunsrück region west of Bingen, an area well known for its scenic beauty and year-round series of walking trails. Trail lengths of 42- and 50-kilometers are offered to challenge-seeking wanderers as are three Mountain Bike trails (which do not offer IVV credit). From Baumholder, use the minor roads skirting the training area to reach B-420. Head in the direction of Bad Kreuznach to B-270 and B-41 to Kirn. Connect with a secondary road through Hahnenbach and Bundenbach to Rhaunen.
Start: Idarwaldhalle at Am Sonnenschlicher 5
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 10 km), 7-11 a.m. (21 and 30 km), 6:30-9 a.m. (42 km), 6:30-8 a.m. (50 km) and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (25, 35 and 50 km mountain bike without IVV credit)
Trail: Hilly, mostly woods
Award: From previous events (shorter routes) or patch and certificate (marathon trails).

Sprendlingen (55576) — Look for this event south of Bingen. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 63 toward Mainz, and 61 toward Koblenz. Exit at Gau-Bickelheim (52) and follow signs to the start hall.
Start: Wißberghalle at Stettiner Straße 1
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Stroller-friendly on 5 km; otherwise hilly, woods
Award: None
Note: Dogs are not permitted in the start hall.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15

Hohenöllen/Pfalz (67744) — This midweek event is closest to Baumholder and Kaiserslautern and, dependent upon an understanding boss, the start times may accommodate workers from those areas. From Baumholder, head east toward Lauterecken using the unnumbered road bordering the training area to reach B-420 at Rathsweiler. Take B-420 to Lauterecken, then B-270 south to Heinzenhausen to pick up another secondary road a short distance to Hohenöllen. From Kaiserslautern, use B-420 north toward Lauterecken to Heinzenhausen and the minor road to the start.
Start: Radsporthalle at Am Heidchen 6
Wednesday: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. (5 and 10 km), 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (cycling) and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Hilly walking trails, woods and fields; 30-km asphalt cycling trail
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF APRIL 18-19

Bazoncourt, France (57530) — This French walk is southeast of Metz and about a 90-minute drive from the KMC. Wanderers making the drive may wish to also visit Metz or St. Avold. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken and into France where it becomes A320/E50 once the border has been crossed. Continue toward Metz as the autobahn turns into A4/E50, and take exit 38 toward Boulay.  Pick up D19 through Varize and continue on D103M and D71 to the start at Bazoncourt.
Start: Salle du Foyer Rural on Rue de Courten
Sunday: 7 a.m. to noon (10, 15 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Eschbach, France (67360) — This event is southeast of Bitche, north of Haguenau, and roughly midway between the two towns. It’ll require a fair amount of driving but there are a number of scenic roads and it should make for a pleasant time. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken and Zweibrücken. Exit at Zweibrücken-Ixheim (33) to take B-424 south where it becomes D35A in France. Continue on D35A to connect with D662 toward Philippsbourg, then pick up D1062 to Mertzwiller. From there, use D72 to the start at Eschbach.
Start: Espace Sportif on Rue de la Forêt
Sunday: 3-8 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Falck, France (57550) — This event is southwest of Saarlouis and just across the French border; a little more than an hour’s drive from Kaiserslautern. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 past Saarbrücken and 620 toward Saarlouis. Exit at Ensdorf (4b) in the direction of Überherrn and pick up B-269n toward Creutzwald and the border. After crossing into France, continue on N33 and D23B toward the start at Falck.
Start: Salle Rémy Schaefer
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Quierschied-Göttelborn (66287) — This event is in the Saarland area west of the KMC. From Baumholder, use Autobahns 62 and 1 toward Saarbrücken. Exit at Quierschied (144) to use a minor road to reach Göttelborn. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 to reach the Merchweiler exit (18), then use secondary roads to reach the start at Göttelborn.
Start: Mehrzweckhalle at Hauptstraße 189
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6, 10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown but expect somewhat hilly, woods
Award: None.

Rohrwiller, France (67410) — This event is southeast of Zweibrücken and about a 90 minute drive from the KMC. Participants will find themselves fairly near Haguenau, Soufflenheim and Strasbourg — all of which are worth exploring. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 61 toward Karlsruhe and 65 toward Landau. Exit at Kandel-Süd (22) to use B-9 south to the border, and continue on French Autoroute A35 to the Rohrwiller exit (53). Follow IVV signs to the start.
Start: Salle des Fêtes
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Spabrücken (55595) — This event, in the Naturpark Soonwald-Nahe, is northwest of Bad Kreuznach and southwest of Bingen, and should be easily reached. From the KMC, expect a 70-minute drive using Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 63 toward Mainz, and 61 toward Koblenz. Exit at Bad Kreuznach (51) to pick up B-41 toward Idar-Oberstein. At Rüdesheim an der Nahe, take the exit off of B-41 heading toward Stromberg and use secondary roads leading to Spabrücken and the start.
Start: Soonwaldhalle
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Hilly, fields and woods
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF APRIL 25-26

Alteckendorf, France (67270) — This Saturday late afternoon/evening event is north of Strasbourg and easily reached by autobahn in about an hour and three-quarters. And because it’s a Saturday walk, there will be shopping opportunities during the morning at Haguenau and Strasbourg. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken and into France where it becomes A320/E50. Connect with the A4/E25 toll road toward Strasbourg and take exit 46 toward Hochfelden. Continue on D32, D25, and D69 along with IVV signs to the start.
Start: Salle Polyvalente at Place de la Gare
Saturday: 3-9 p.m. (10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Bockenau (55595) — This event is due west of Bad Kreuznach on the year-round, permanent Hunsrück trail system. From Baumholder, use the road adjacent to the training area to reach B-420 toward Bad Kreuznach. Connect with B-270 toward Idar-Oberstein and B-41 toward Bad Kreuznach. Pick up the secondary road at Waldböckelheim that leads to the start at Bockenau.
Start: Bockenauer-Schweiz-Halle on Waldböckelheimer Straße
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km), 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km) and 7-11 a.m. (30 km)
Trail: Fairly hilly, woods
Award: None.

Hargarten-aux-Mines, France (57550) — This Sunday volksmarch is southwest of Saarlouis and is about a 75-minute drive from the KMC. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 620 past Saarbrücken and toward Saarlouis. Exit at Ensdorf (4b) to follow B269 and B269n toward Überherrn. Cross into France and connect with and follow D23B and D23 to Hargarten-aux-Mines and the start.
Start: Salle Polyvalente
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Kalhausen, France (57412) — This Marche Populaire event is south of Saarbrücken in France. Wanderers from the KMC area will have a bit of a drive (should be less than 90 minutes) to reach this walk. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 to Saarbrücken and take the B-51 exit toward Güdingen and the border. Continue onto D82, D919, and D33 as the secondary roads parallel the winding Sarre River. Connect with D83 and take it into Kalhausen and the start.
Start: Salle polyvalente on rue de la Liberation
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Linger, Luxembourg (L-4797) — This event is west-southwest of Luxembourg City with the drive slightly less than two hours from the KMC. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken, Saarlouis, Merzig and Perl. Continue across the border onto Autoroute A13 west toward Luxembourg City, Esch-sur-Alzette and Pétange. Connect onto N31 and follow IVV signs a short distance to the start.
Start: Centre Sociétaire at 20, rue de la Libération
Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 11 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Saarbrücken-Gersweiler (66128) — Just west of Saarbrücken, this event places wanderers in the area of the French border and is easily reached by autobahn. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 620 past Saarbrücken and exit at Völklingen-Gersweiler. Take a secondary road a short distance to reach the start.
Start: Sportzentrum on Krughütter Straße
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5 and 10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Schweighouse sur Moder, France (67590) — This Sunday volksmarch is near the town of Haguenau. Expect the drive from the KMC to take about an hour and three-quarters, and wind through the Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges du Nord. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken and Zweibrücken. Exit at Zweibrücken-Ixheim (33) to take B-424 south across the border where it becomes D35A. Continue on secondary roads (D620, D662, D1062) toward Hagenau, then take D85 to reach Schweighouse and the start.
Start: Centre Culturel et Sportif Robert Kaeuffling at 10 rue du Sports
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Fairly flat, fields and woods
Award: None.

FRIDAY, MAY 1

Hagondange, France (57525) — This European holiday event is north of Metz and roughly a 90-minute drive from the KMC. The A4 toll road to Metz takes you past St. Avold and its American Military Cemetery. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken to the border. Continue on French Autoroutes A320 and A4 toward Metz. Connect with A31 toward Thionville and exit at Talange (36). Follow IVV signs to the start at Hagondange.
Start: Salle des Fêtes Paul Lamm
Friday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (11 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (21 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

La Petite-Pierre, France (67290) — This Friday holiday event is south-southwest of Bitche and requires a day off from work. The drive from Kaiserslautern is about 90 minutes. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 toward Saarbrücken and the French border. After crossing, continue on A320/E50 to connect with the A4/E25 toll road. Head south toward Strasbourg to exit 43 and connect with D1061, D13, and D9 to reach the start at La Petite-Piere.
Start: Centre Culturel on Route Principale
Friday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Leudelange, Luxembourg (L-3361) — This event brings volksmarchers to Luxembourg on Europe’s Workers’ Day holiday, this time southwest of Luxembourg City. It’s a long drive from the KMC (about 1 hour 45 minutes) but should be easily done using autobahns. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 past Saarbrücken, Saarlouis and Merzig to the border at Perl. After crossing into Luxembourg, continue west on Autoroute A13 to connect with the A4 toward Luxembourg City. Use the Leudelange-Süd exit (2) and follow secondary roads to the start.
Start: Hall Omnisports at 7, place des Martyrs
Friday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF MAY 2-3

Bundenbach (55626) — While volksmarchers have seen a number of events discontinued over the years as clubs and their members grow older, there is still a glimmer of hope for the sport with the introduction of a new club and event. This is the case with the walk in Bundenbach, a town sort of midway between Idar-Oberstein and the Hahn airport. Participation in this inaugural event is highly encouraged. From the KMC, use B270 north from Kaiserslautern to Fischbach, then connect with a minor road to Mörschied. From there, connect with minor roads to Sonnschied and Bundenbach. From Baumholder, use secondary roads to Ruschberg, Reichenbach, and Idar-Oberstein. Connect with B41 to Fischbach, and take minor roads to Mörschied, Sonnschied, and Bundenbach.
Start: Glückauf-Halle
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6, 10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Itzig, Luxembourg (L-5957) — This event is southeast of Luxembourg City and about a 90-minute drive from the KMC. From the KMC, take Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken and 8 to Luxembourg. Cross the border and continue on Autoroute A13 to Luxembourg City, then exit at Frisange (10). Use N3 and CR159 to reach the start at Iztig.
Start: Centre Sportif at 2, Rue de l’École
Sunday: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Ramstein-Miesenbach (66877) — The Ramstein Roadrunners club plays host to this volksmarch. The number of club members working the event partly illustrates why the Roadrunners are one of the few active American clubs remaining in Germany. Wanderers will find the event to be a friendly and relaxing family activity — and one of the few still offering a Weizenbier glass as the award. Of course, this is a hometown event that’s not to be missed for volksmarchers in the KMC. Use Autobahns 5 and 6 and the Landstuhl/Air Base exit (13) to follow IVV signs to reach the town of Miesenbach.
Start: Mehrzweckhalle at Am Kiefernkopf 22
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (5 km), 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km), 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (16 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (21 km)
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 km), 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 km), 7 a.m. to noon (16 km) and 7-11 a.m. (21 km)
Trail: Slightly hilly, fields and forests
Award: Weizenbier glass.

Reipertswiller, France (67340) — This French volksmarching event is south of Zweibrücken and Bitche, France. The drive from the KMC will be scenic and about 90 minutes long. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken and Zweibrücken. Exit at Zweibrücken-Ixheim (33) to take B424 south where it becomes D35A in France. Continue on D620 to connect with D37 near Bitche, and follow it and D12, D919, and D157 through Lemberg, Goetzenbruck, Wimmenau, and Reipertswiller.
Start: Salle polyvalente
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Riedseltz, France (67160) — This event, offering a marathon trail, is southeast of Pirmasens and likely a long but scenic drive. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 62 toward Saarbrücken and Pirmasens (or, alternately, B270 south). Exit at Pirmasens (15) to take B10 and B427 to Bad Bergzabern. Pick up B38 and head south to the border where it becomes D263 in France and, after a short drive, you’ll reach the start at Riedseltz.
Start: Salle des Fêtes on rue Neuve (near the stadium)
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km) and 6-9 a.m. (42 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None (shorter trails) or patch and certificate (marathon).

Valleroy, France (57525) — This event is west of Metz and about an hour and three-quarters drive from the KMC. The A4 toll road to Metz takes you past St. Avold and the American Military Cemetery. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken to the border. Continue on French Autoroutes A320 and A4 past Metz to the Sainte Maire exit (34). Follow IVV signs on secondary roads to the start at Valleroy.
Start: Salle des Fêtes
Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7:30 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

FRIDAY, MAY 8

Hohengoeft, France (67310) — This Friday event is roughly midway between Saverne and Strasbourg and is less than a two hour drive from the KMC. From the KMC, use Autobahns A-6 toward Saarbrücken and the border, French Autoroutes A320 toward Metz and A4 (toll road) toward Strasbourg. Exit at Saverne (45) and use D1404 and D421 to connect with D41 south to Woellenheim. Take D25 to the start at Hohengoeft.
Start: Salle polyvalente on Place de l’Eglise
Friday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF MAY 9-10

Holving, France (57510) — This two-day French event is found south of Saarbrücken. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken. Continue on it as it becomes A32 in France and connect with the A4 toll road in the direction of Strasbourg. Take exit 41.1 toward Puttelange-aux-Lacs, connect with D30, D656 and D156E to reach Holving.
Start: Salle des Fêtes
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Kriegsfeld (67819) — This event is south of Bad Kreuznach. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim and 63 toward Mainz. Exit at Erbes-Büdesheim (9) and follow a secondary road through Wendelsheim and Nieder-Wiesen to reach Kriegsfeld.
Start: Turn- und Festhalle at Hinter Kirch 10
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 km), 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Fairly hilly, fields and woods
Award: From previous events.

Vianden, Luxembourg (L-9425) — This volksmarch is west of Bitburg and just across the border — about two hours from the KMC — and offers a surprising variety of trails. Vianden is home to the Musée Littéraire Victor Hugo, the French author who wrote the historical novel, Les Misérables. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken, 62 and 1 toward Trier, and 64 toward Luxembourg. Exit at Trier (3) and take B-51 north to Newel, then a secondary road to Ralingen and B-418. Continue along the river to Echternacherbrück and the border. Use Bitburger Straße to cross the Sûre River into Luxembourg, then follow N10 and N17 to Vianden.
Start: Centre Culturel Larei Vianden at 39, rue du Sanatorium
Saturday: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6, 11 and 15 km), 6 a.m. to noon (20, 25 and 30 km), and 6-9 a.m. (42 and 50 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: Certificate and patch (marathon trails).

THURSDAY, MAY 14

Bascharage, Luxembourg (L-4920) — This Ascension Day event is west-southwest of Luxembourg City with the drive and an hours and three-quarters from the KMC. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken, Saarlouis, Merzig and Perl. Continue across the border onto Autoroute A13 west toward Luxembourg City, Esch-sur-Alzette and Pétange. At the autoroute’s end at Foetz, merge onto A4 toward Differdange. Exit at Differdange to pick up the A13 toward Pétange. Take exit 1 for N5 to Bascharage and the start.
Start: Hall 75 on rue de l’eau
Thursday: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km) and 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Elzange, France (57970) — This Ascension Day event is east of Thionville. Expect the drive to be about 90 minutes from the KMC. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken, Saarlouis, Merzig and Perl. Take the Perl exit (2) onto B419 toward Thionville and the French border. Continue on D654 to Koenigsmacker and connect with D2 to Elzange.
Start: Stade de football
Thursday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 and 15 km) and a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF MAY 16-17

Bining, France (57410) — This French event is southeast of Saarbrücken and offers challenge-seekers a marathon trail. From the KMC area, use Autobahn 6 to Neunkirchen and Autobahn 8 toward Zweibrücken. Exit at Zweibrücken-Ixheim (33) and use B424 south toward the border where it becomes D35A in France. Just before reaching Bitche, take the secondary roads D35 and D662 to Rohrbach-lès-Bitche; D35 continues southward to Bining and the start.
Start: Salle des Fêtes on rue du Muguet
Saturday and Sunday: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km), 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km), 6-9 a.m. (42 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: Patch and certificate (marathon trail).

Heusweiler (66265) — This event is north of Saarbrücken and just off of Autobahn 8, making it easily reached from the KMC. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarlouis and exit at Heusweiler (16). From Baumholder, use Autobahn 62 toward Trier. Connect with Autobahn 1 toward Saarbrücken and Autobahn 8 toward Saarlouis. Exit at Heusweiler (16) and follow signs to the start.
Start: Friedrich-Schiller-Schule at Schillerstr. 65
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 15 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Neunkirchen-lès-Bouzonville, France (57320) — This just-across-the-French-border volksmarch is northwest of Saarlouis. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 past Saarbrücken and Saarlouis. Exit at Rehlingen (7) to use minor roads to cross into France. Drive through Siersburg and toward Bouzonville until you can connect with another minor road leading to Neunkirchen-lès-Bouzonville and the start.
Start: Salle des Fêtes du Foyer
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20

Morbach (54497) — This club’s midweek event is northwest of Idar-Oberstein and within a reasonable distance from Baumholder. Morbach is on B327 just north of the junction with B269. Use B422 from Idar-Oberstein to reach B269. From Baumholder, connect with B41/269 to head north on B269 to reach Morbach.
Start: Sportlerheim in the Alfons-Jakobs-Stadion at Industriestraße 5b Wednesday: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. (6 and 10 km)
Trail: Hilly, woods
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF MAY 23-24

Beaufort, Luxembourg (L-6312) — This event, held on Saturday and Whit Monday, is southwest of Bitburg and just a few kilometers from the German border. The club celebrates its 30th anniversary on Saturday. The drive from the KMC is about an hour and three-quarters. The town is home to a historic castle built in the mid-1600s. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken, 62 and 1 to Trier, and 602 and 64 toward the Luxembourg border. Exit at Trier (3) to pick up B-51 to Newel. Connect with a minor road (L42) and B-418 to skirt the border and Sauer River to Echternacherbrück. Cross the border into Luxembourg and pick up N10 to Dillingen. Take CR364 the rest of the way to Beaufort.
Start: Kummelsbau
Saturday and Monday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: 6-km trail is stroller-friendly; otherwise, unknown
Award: None.

Goetzenbruck, France (57620) — This event is south of Zweibrücken and Bitche. The drive from the KMC will be a little over an hour but should be scenic. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken and Zweibrücken. Exit at Contwig (34) in the direction of Bitche. Continue on a secondary road to the border to connect with D35A in France, heading south toward Bitche. Continue south on D620 and D37 through Gretzenbruck to the start at Goetzenbruck.
Start: Complexe sportif at 110 rue d’Ingwiller
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Kleinblittersdorf-Sitterswald (66271) — You’ll find this walk on the French-German border south of Saarbrücken near the town of Kleinblittersdorf. Or I think you’ll find it. The town name of Sitterswald did not show up on Google maps but the street and postal code returned Kleinblittersdorf on a search. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 and 620 to Saarbrücken. Take the B51 exit to connect with that road at the end of the ramp and turn left to head south toward Sarreguemines. Immediately after leaving Kleinblittersdorf (and before entering Auersmacher), turn left onto Kappellenstraße to follow it and IVV signs to the Sitterswald start.
Start: Mehrzweckhalle at Nauwieserstraße 1
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6 and 10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Oberwiesen (67294) — If you drove to the recent event at Kriegsfeld then you’ll enjoy this walk that’s just three kilometers down the road. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim and 63 toward Mainz. Exit at Erbes-Büdesheim (9) and follow roads through that town and Offenheim to reach Oberwiesen.
Start: Gemeindehalle
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Fairly hilly, fields and woods
Award: Two tea mugs.

MONDAY, MAY 25

Lemestroff, France (57970) — This Ascension Day event is east of Thionville. Wanderers from the KMC will find the drive to be about 90 minutes. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken, Saarlouis, and Merzig. Take the Merzig exit (6) and use a secondary road through Hilbringen to the border. Cross into France and continue on D855 and D61 to Lemestroff.
Start: Chapiteau at place des fêtes
Monday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10, 15 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Woustviller, France (57915) — This Whit Monday event is found a few miles southwest of Sarreguemines. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 620 to Saarbrücken, then take the B51 exit toward Güdingen. Follow B51 to Kleinblittersdorf where you’ll cross the Saar River into France. Drive south on N61 to Roth, then use D674 to Woustviller.
Start: Gymnase Leprince-Ringuet at Place de la Mairie
Monday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF MAY 30-31

Bischwiller, France (67240) — This French volksmarch event is southeast of Zweibrücken and a bit distant. Participants will find themselves fairly near Haguenau, Soufflenheim and Strasbourg — all of which are worth exploring Saturday morning before the late afternoon volksmarch. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken and Zweibrücken. Exit at Zweibrücken-Ixheim (33) to take B424 south where it becomes D35A in France. Connect with N62 to Haguenau and D29 to reach Rohrwiller and the start.
Start: Foyer St. Léon on Rue Pierson
Saturday: 3-8 p.m. (10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Niederkail (54526) — This club’s walk has frequently been recommended for the friendly nature of the event as well as for its scenic trails through the surrounding countryside. With the location east of Spangdahlem Air Base, it’s not too far for volksmarchers from Baumholder and the KMC. From Baumholder, use Autobahns 1 and 60 toward Trier and Wittlich, take the Landsheid exit (9) and travel west on B50 to Niederkail. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 62 and 60 toward Trier, Koblenz and Spangdahlem. Exit at Landsheid (9) and use B50 to reach the start at Niederkail.
Start: Kailbachhalle on Brückenstraße
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Hilly, fields and woods
Award: None.

WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY, JUNE 3-4

Eisen (66625) — This event is just down the road from Neubrücke. Grab your co-workers, family or friends and enjoy this midweek, German-holiday walk. From Neubrücke, use B41 to Nohfelden to pick up unnumbered roads to Türkismühle, Sötern, Waldbach and Eisen; it’s a drive of about 13 kilometers. Baumholder’s wanderers should head to Neubrücke and follow the same directions. From Idar-Oberstein, use B41 to Birkenfeld, then take a minor road to Brücken, Achtelsbach and Eisen.
Start: Gemeindezentrum at Hunsrückstraße 44
Wednesday: 4-7 p.m. (5 and 10 km)
Thursday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown, expect hills and wooded areas
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF JUNE 6-7

Allenbach (55758) — Just up the road from Idar-Oberstein and Neubrücke is the event at Allenbach. From Baumholder, take minor roads west to Birkenfeld and connect with B269. Drive north toward Morbach and connect with B422 to Allenbach and the start. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken and 62 toward Trier. Exit at Birkenfeld (4) and use B41 north toward Birkenfeld and B269 toward Morbach, then B422 to the start at Allenbach.
Start: Gemeindehaus on Hauptstraße
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Hilly, mostly woods
Award: From previous events.

Herbitzheim, France (67260) — This evening event is south of Saarbrücken in France. The drive from Kaiserslautern is about 70 minutes. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 toward Saarbrücken, then briefly use A620 to exit onto B51 south toward Kleinblittersdorf and the border. At Kleinblittersdorf, take a minor road across the Saar River into France. Pick up N61 to Sarreguemines, and D662 and D919 to reach Herbitzheim.
Start: Salle polyvalente
Saturday: 3-8 p.m. (10 km)
Trail: Unknown, but expect it to be through fields and woods
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF JUNE 13-14

Bad Kreuznach (55545) — Former residents may enjoy a return visit to their one-time home and see how the city has changed since the base was closed. Trails run through city parks and wooded areas, and along the Ellerbach River. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 63 toward Mainz, and 61 toward Bingen. Exit at Bad Kreuznach (51) and use B41 with IVV signs to reach the start.
Start: Don Bosco-Schule at Ellerbach Straße 10
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 11 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (21 km)
Trail: Slightly hilly, neighborhoods, fields and woods
Award: From previous events.

Kordel (54306) — Wanderers will find this event north of Trier, Germany’s oldest city. From Baumholder, use Autobahns 1 and 602 to Trier. Exit at Trier-Ehrang (2) and use B52 and B422 to Kordel and the start. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 62, 1 and 602 to Trier and the Trier-Ehrang exit (2). Connect with B54 and B422 to reach the start.
Start: Turnhalle on Friedhofstraße
Saturday: 1-6 p.m. (6 and 11 km) and 1-5 p.m. (20 km)
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6, 11 and 20 km)
Trail: Expect hilly, woods and fields
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF JUNE 20-21

Diefflen (66763) — This Saarland volksmarch event is the third for the host club. The event is north of Saarlouis and easily reached by autobahn. From the KMC area, use Autobahn 6 and 8 toward Neunkirchen and Saarlouis. Exit at Rehlingen (7) and use minor roads to the start. From Baumholder, drive to Neubrücke to connect with B-41 and head south. Connect with B269 and follow it through Tholey and Lebach to Nalbach where a minor road will take you to Diefflen.
Start: Sportplatz on Friedhofsweg
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 7-11 a.m. (21 km)
Trail: Unknown, but expect hilly
Award: None.

Ehlenz/Südeifel (54636) — With its location 10 km or so up the road from Bitburg, the event can almost be considered a hometown walk. And at 90 minutes, it’s not too bad of a drive from the KMC, too. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 62 and 60 toward Trier, Koblenz and Spangdahlem. Exit at Bitburg (6) and use minor roads through Bickendorf to the start at Ehlenz.
Start: Gemeindehaus at Schulstraße 1
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Hilly, fields and woods
Award: None.

Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg (L-4114) — This event is southwest of Luxembourg City with the drive slightly more than 90 minutes from Kaiserslautern. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken, Saarlouis, Merzig and Perl. Continue across the border onto Autoroute A13 west toward Luxembourg City, then exit at Schifflange (5) and pick up N5 to Esch-sur-Alzette.
Start: Ellergronn (Centre d’accueil nature et forêt)
Sunday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Heimbach/Nahe (55779) — Wanderers will find this enjoyable walk midway between Neubrücke and Baumholder. From Baumholder, use the secondary road leading to Neubrücke. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 62 to the Birkenfeld exit (4), then follow a minor road through Hoppstädten-Weiersbach to Heimbach.
Start: Besenbinderhalle on In der Au
Saturday: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km)
Sunday: 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km)
Trail: Hilly, wooded areas
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF JUNE 27-28

Beringen, Luxembourg (L-7590) — This Sunday event, north of Luxembourg City, is about two hours from Kaiserslautern. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 62, 1, and 602 toward Trier, then 64 to the Luxembourg border. Continue across the border on Autoroute A1 to the Potaschbierg exit (13). Connect with secondary roads N1, N14, N11, and N14 to Larochette, then pick up D119 and D118 to Berschbach. Use D123 to the start at Beringen.
Start: Hal Irbicht on rue Irbicht
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (21 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

(For more events in your area, visit www.wiesbaden.army.mil/hunion/Takeahike.htm.)