Take a Hike

VOLKSMARCHING NOTES

– Reading this in the KMC area? Consider joining one of the two volksmarch clubs here – the Kaiserslautern Sunny Coyotes and Ramstein Roadrunners both have an active presence.

The Sunny Coyotes meet monthly at the Hotel Restaurant Pfeffermühle (Beethovenstrasse 40, 66849 Landstuhl-Atzel) – you’ll need to check their Web site or email the club (info@sunny-coyote.de) for the next date. Join them for dinner at 6 p.m. before the meeting’s start at 7 p.m.

The Roadrunners play host to annual events in May and on Thanksgiving Day. The club’s monthly General Membership meetings take place on the third Tuesday at Burgschänke Landstuhl (Burgweg 1, 66849 Landstuhl) beginning with a social hour (6 p.m.) and followed by the meeting (7 p.m.).

– Thanks to Janice Lukacsko for writing to update the trail description of the Hemmersdorf event. She noted it was a “picturesque trail – the first half runs pretty much along the river.” If you missed the walk, make a note to participate next year.

– 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.”

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

– Many thanks to readers Pat and Cheryl Patterson, Barbara MacDonald, Janice Lukacsko, and James Meredith for providing event brochures.

– You, too, can help out by picking up event brochures and mailing them via no-cost MPS to Donald Seltzer, PSC 2 Box 10684, APO AE 09012. (Note this is a new mailing address.)

– 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 HU” in the subject line.

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

WEEKEND OF MAY 3-4

Dudweiler (66125) — This event, with its variety of trails, is northeast of Saarbrücken and easily reachable from Ramstein and Kaiserslautern — after having walked the Ramstein event, of course. From those communities, use Autobahns 6, 8 and 623 toward Saarbrücken and exit at St. Ingbert-West (5). Follow IVV signs to the start.
Start: Bürgerhaus at Am Markt 115
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (5 km), 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (16 and 21 km)
Trails: Unknown
Award: None.

Itzig, Luxembourg (L-5957) — This event is southeast of Luxembourg City and about a 90-minute drive from the KMC, and less than an hour’s drive from the Bitburg/Spangdahlem area. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B-51 south to Neuhaus. Take Autobahn 64 west to cross the Luxembourg border, then continue west toward Luxembourg City on Autoroute A1. Exit at Sandweiler (7) and use N7, CR234 and CR159 to the town of Itzig. 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: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Ormersviller, France (57720) — The club playing host to this Sunday event offers its first marathon route — 42 km of mountains, valleys and villages. It’s located south of Zweibrücken and just across the border; about an hour’s drive from the KMC. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken and Zweibrücken. Exit at Zweibrücken-Ixheim (33) and take a minor road south through Mittelbach and Altheim to cross the border. Ormersviller is a very short distance from the border.
Start: Salle Socio Culturelle
Sunday: 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (10 and 20 km) and 6-9:30 a.m. (30 and 42 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: Patch and certificate (marathon).

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 beer mugs 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 and Sunday: 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)
Trail: Slightly hilly, fields and forests
Award: Glass beer mug.

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, B-270). Exit at Pirmasens (15) to take B-10 and B-427 to Bad Bergzabern. Pick up B-38 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 (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: 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. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B-51 south to connect with Autobahn A-64 to the Luxembourg border; continue on Autoroute A4 toward Luxembourg City. Connect with A3 south to the border, crossing into France, and continuing on Autoroutes A31 to Metz and A4 west to the Sainte Maire exit (34). IVV signs will lead to the start using secondary roads.
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.

THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, MAY 8-9

Hohengoeft, France (67310) — This Thursday 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
Thursday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF MAY 10-11

Haute-Vigneulles, France (57690) — This event is west of St. Avold and about an hour and one-quarter drive from the KMC. Its location near St. Avold offers the option to visit the American Military Cemetery. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken to the border. Continue on French Autoroutes A320 and A4 toward Metz, use exit 39 toward Sarrelouis/Carling, and then take N33, D25D, D603 and D74 to Haute-Vigneulles.
Start: Salle des fêtes
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

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)
Trails: Unknown
Award: None.

Holving, France (57510) — This 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.

Junglinster, Luxembourg (L-6101) — This event is northeast of Luxembourg City, and a little more than a half-hour’s drive from Bitburg and 90 minutes from the KMC. Challenge-seeking volksmarchers will find a 42-km marathon at this walk. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B-257 south to Echternacherbrück and the border. Use Bitburger Straße to cross the Sûre River into Luxembourg, then pick up N11 (E29) and follow it to Junglinster. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken, 62 and 1 toward Trier, and 64 toward Luxembourg. Cross the border and continue on Autoroute A1, then exit at Potaschbierg (13) to use N1 toward Diekirch. Connect with CR 122 and CR129 to reach the start.
Start: Centre Polyvalent Gaston Stein
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km), 7 a.m. to noon (20 km) and 6:30-9 a.m. (42 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: Certificate and patch (marathon).

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 Mörsfeld to reach Kriegsfeld.
Start: Turn- und Festhalle at Hinter Kirch 10
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 3 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.

Monreal (56729) — This event is west of Koblenz and within reach of the more adventurous wanderers from Wiesbaden (less than 90 minutes), the KMC (about an hour and three-quarters), and Bitburg/Spangdahlem (a little more than an hour). From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 63 toward Mainz, and 61 toward Koblenz. Exit at Mendig (34) and use secondary roads, to include B-262 and B-258, past Mayen to reach Monreal. From Bitburg, take B-257 to Autobahn 60 toward Wittlich, then Autobahns 1 and 48 toward Koblenz. Exit at Kaisersesch (4) and use secondary roads to Monreal. Start: Sportheim/Sportplatz
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km)
Trails: Expect hilly trails in forested areas
Award: None.

Vianden, Luxembourg (L-9425) — This volksmarch is west of Bitburg and just across the border — about a 35-minute drive or so from Bitburg and 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 Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B-50 west to the border. At the town of Roth an der Our, turn off on N17 (Rue de la Frontière, then Rue de la Gare) to cross the Our river into Luxembourg. Continue on N17 to the start at Vianden. 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 CulturelLarei 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).

Waldweistroff, France (57320) — This French walk is west-northwest of Saarbrücken and will be a bit of a drive. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 past Saarbrücken and toward Saarlouis. Exit at Rehlingen (7) and take a minor road through Rehlingen-Siersburg to the border. Continue on D956 after entering France. Connect with D19 and, at Colmen, take a minor road to Waldweistroff and the start.
Start: Salle des Fêtes
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF MAY 17-18

Bining, France (57410) — Here’s a French event southeast of Saarbrücken that offers a 42-km marathon. From the KMC area, use Autobahn 6 to Neunkirchen and Autobahn 8 toward Zweibrücken. Exit at Zweibrücken-Ixheim (33) and use B-424 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
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 trails).

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.

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 next to the Air Base, Spangdahlem’s wanderers will enjoy a hometown event that’s also 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 B-50 to Niederkail. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 62 and 60 toward Trier, Koblenz and Spangdahlem. Exit at Landsheid (9) and use B-50 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)
Trails: Hilly, fields and woods
Award: None.

Schoenbourg, France (67320) — Here’s a volksmarch that requires a bit of driving — about 90 minutes worth. The event is southwest of both Pirmasens and Bitche, France. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken and into France where it becomes A32. Connect with the A4 toll road toward Strasbourg and use exit 43 toward Sarre-Union. Use secondary roads D1061, D107, and D122 to reach the start.
Start: Au Mille Club near the school
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

MONDAY, MAY 19

Saverne, France (67700) — This Monday volksmarch is a school-oriented event and students can participate without cost. While distant — it’s a little more than 90 minutes from the KMC, the drive is almost entirely on autobahns. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken and into France where it becomes A32. Connect with the A4 toll road toward Strasbourg and use the Saverne exit (45). Follow directional signs to the start.
Start: Stade du Haut-Barr “Adrien Zeller”
Monday: 8-11 a.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 21

Morbach (54497) — This club’s midweek event is northwest of Idar-Oberstein and within a reasonable distance from Baumholder. Morbach is on B-327 just north of the junction with B-269. Use B-422 from Idar-Oberstein to reach B-269. From Baumholder, connect with B-41/269 to head north on B-269 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 24-25

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
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Holz/Saar (66265) — This Saarland event is north of Saarbrücken and west of Neunkirchen. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 8 and 1 toward Saarlouis and Saarbrücken. Exit at Quierscheid (144) to follow IVV signs to the start at Holz. From the Baumholder area, use Autobahns 62 and 1 toward Saarbrücken and exit at Quierschied (144). Follow signs a short distance to Holz.
Start: Glück-Auf-Halle on Glück-Auf-Weg
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (21 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Niederanven, Luxembourg (L-6906) — This event is east of Luxembourg City and a bit less than a 90-minute drive from the KMC, and about a 40-minute drive from the Bitburg/Spangdahlem area. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B-51 south to Neuhaus. Take Autobahn 64 west to cross the Luxembourg border, then continue west toward Luxembourg City on Autoroute A1. Exit at Munsbach (11) and use CR132 to reach the start. From the KMC, take Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken and 62, 1 and 602 to Trier; exit at Trier-Ehrang (2). Pick up B-52 to connect with Autobahn 64 to Luxembourg. Cross the border and continue on Autoroute A1 toward Luxembourg City, then exit at Munsbach (11). Use CR132 to reach the start at Niederanven.
Start: Centre de Loisir
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 11 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Oberwiesen (67294) — If you liked the recent event at Kriegsfeld then you’ll enjoy this walk that’s just three kilometers down the road. Use Autobahn 63 toward Alzey and Kaiserslautern, then exit at Erbes-Büdesheim (9). Follow a secondary road through Erbes-Büdesheim and Offenheim to reach the start. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim and 63 toward Mainz. Exit at Erbes-Büdesheim (9) and follow roads through 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: Decorative turtle.

Schirrhein, France (67240) — This Saturday volksmarch is midway between the pottery town of Soufflenheim and Haguenau where the Cora supermarket offers a wide variety of cheeses and wines. KMC drivers can expect to be on the road about an hour and three-quarters getting to this walk. 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 Rountzenheim exit (55). Follow IVV signs to the start.
Start: Salle socio-culturelle
Saturday: 3-8 p.m. (10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

THURSDAY, MAY 29

Leudelange, Luxembourg (L-3361) — This event brings volksmarchers to Luxembourg on the Ascension 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 Sud exit (2) and follow secondary roads to the start. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use Autobahns 60, 1, and 602 to Trier. Use the Trier-Ehrang exit to connect with A-64 to Luxembourg City; after crossing the border, the autobahn becomes A1. Bypass Luxembourg City to the south using B1 to connect with A4, then exit at Leudelange Nord (1) to follow secondary roads to the start. IVV signs should be available after exiting the autoroute.
Start: Hall Omnisports at 7, place des Martyrs
Thursday: 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 31-JUNE 1

Hunting, France (57480) — This event is about a 90-minute drive from Kaiserslautern and is northeast of Thionville. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 past Saarbrücken, Saarlouis and Merzig. Exit at Perl (2) to use B-419 south toward the border and Thionville. Cross into France to use D654, and D153J to reach Hunting. IVV signs will lead to the start.
Start: Foyer Socioculturel
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Reichweiler (66871) — This walk may be found literally just down the road from the Baumholder community. It’s a pretty area and easy to find — just head down the hill toward Freisen and watch for signs to Reichweiler. From Baumholder use the road to Freisen, pick up a secondary road through Eckersweiler to Reichweiler. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 62 toward Saarbrücken and Trier, then exit at Reichweiler (6) to follow IVV signs to the start.
Start: Dorfgemeinschaftshaus at Schulstraße 7
Saturday and Sunday: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 6 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trails: Hilly, wooded areas and fields
Award: None.

Reisbach (66793) — This event is southwest of Baumholder and west of Kaiserslautern in the Saarland area; the drive from the KMC is less than an hour. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarlouis and exit at Heusweiler (16). Follow B-268 toward Lebach to pick up a secondary road to Reisbach. From Baumholder, use Autobahn 62 toward Trier. Connect with Autobahn 1 toward Saarbrücken and exit at Heusweiler (16). Follow B-268 toward Lebach to pick up a secondary road to Reisbach and the start.
Start: Lohwieshalle on Lohwiese Straße
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5 and 11 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (21 km)
Trails: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF JUNE 7-9

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 drive from the Bitburg area is about 45 minutes; from the KMC, it’s an hour longer. 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. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B-257 west to the border. At Echternacherbrück, cross into Luxembourg and pick up N10 to Dillingen. From there, take CR364 to Beaufort and the start.
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.

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 B-51 exit toward Güdingen. Follow B-51 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.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11

Deuselbach (54411) — This midweek event offers a start time late enough for readers in the Baumholder and KMC areas to enjoy a walk. Consult a map before heading to this walk as the brochure’s description of its location is unclear. If your GPS allows it, you may enter the start location’s coordinates 49° 44’ 13” N/07° 04’ 58” E. From Baumholder, take the secondary road leading to Neubrücke to connect with B-41. Head north through Birkenfeld and past Hüttgeswasen. Take a minor road west to Deuselbach. Watch for IVV signs that will lead you to the start. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 62 and 1 toward Trier. Exit at Reinsfeld (132) to pick up B-327 toward Morbach. Connect with a secondary road leading to Deuselbach and follow IVV signs to the start.
Start: Hunsrückhaus am Erbeskopf
Wednesday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Hilly, mostly woods
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF JUNE 14-15

Alzing, France (57320) — This event is just across the French border and west-southwest of Saarlouis. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 past Saarbrücken and Saarlouis. Pick up Autobahn 620 south toward Saarbrücken, exit at Saarlouis-Mitte (3), and use B-405 toward Metz. Cross the border and continue on D918, D3, and D23 to reach Alzing.
Start: Salle du Foyer Rural
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

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 B-41 with IVV signs to reach the start.
Start: Don Bosco-Schule on Ellerbach Straße
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (6 and 11 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 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 B-52 and B-422 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 B-54 and B-422 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 21-22

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)
Trails: Hilly, wooded areas
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF JUNE 28-29

Griesheim-sur-Souffel, France (67370) — This event is 9 km northwest of Strasbourg, making a visit to the historic city relatively easy. It’s about a two-hour drive from the KMC but most of it is on the autobahn. 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 Autoroutes A35 and A4 to Strasbourg. Exit at Reichstett (49) to use the secondary roads D63, D263, D64, D31 and D166 to Griesheim-sur-Souffel.
Start: Centre Culturelle
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (11 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Schwollen (55767) — This walk is due west of Idar-Oberstein and offers a variety of trail lengths, to include 42- and 50-km routes. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 62 to the Birkenfeld exit (4). Take B-269 north to a secondary road leading through Hattgenstein to reach Schwollen.
Start: Sportheim SV Schwollen on Am Sportplatz
Saturday and Sunday: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km), 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km), 6-9 a.m. (42 km) and 6-8 a.m. (50 km)
Trail: Expect fairly hilly, woods
Award: From previous events (shorter trails) or patch and certificate (marathon trails).

WEEKEND OF JULY 5-6

Altrich (54518) — If you don’t mind making the drive to Bitburg or Spangdahlem, then here’s an event in that area. From Baumholder, use Autobahns 1 and 60 toward Trier and Wittlich, take the Wittlich-Mitte exit (125) and follow secondary roads in the direction of Bernkastel-Kues and Altrich to reach the start. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 62 and 60 toward Trier, Koblenz and Spangdahlem. Exit at Wittlich-Mitte (125) and follow signs for Bernkastel-Kues and Altrich. From Bitburg, use Autobahn 60 and exit at Wittlich-West (10). Head toward Wittlich and follow signs for Altrich.
Start: Altreia-Halle on Schulstraße
Sunday: 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5 and 11 km) and 6:30-11 a.m. (20 km)
Trail: Expect hilly, fields and woods
Award: None.

Dudelange, Luxembourg (L-3474) — This Saturday event, south of Luxembourg City, is about an hour’s drive from the Bitburg area and an hour and three-quarters from the KMC. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B-51 south to Neuhaus. Take Autobahn 64 west to cross the Luxembourg border, then continue west on Autoroute A1 and south on A3. Exit at Dudelange (3) to pick up secondary roads CR161 and CR160 to the start. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken, Saarlouis, Merzig and Perl. Continue across the border on Autoroute A13 to connect with A3. Head south toward Metz to exit at Dudelange (3). Pick up secondary roads CR161 and CR160 to Dudelange.
Start: Place de l’Hôtel de Ville
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (6 and 12 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Otterberg-Drehenthalerhof (67697) — This event is located just a few kilometers north of Kaiserslautern and west of Sembach. From Baumholder, make your way to Autobahn 62 and head toward Kaiserslautern, connecting with Autobahn 6. Use the Kaiserslautern-West exit (15) to pick up B-270 north to Otterbach and Otterberg; from there take a minor road to Drehenthalerhof and the start. From the KMC, take B-270 north toward Idar-Oberstein. Connect with secondary roads through Otterbach and Otterberg to pick up the minor road to Drehenthalerhof.
Start: Bürgerhaus
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Hilly, woods and fields
Award: From previous events.

WEEKEND OF JULY 12-13

Sohren (55487) — This walk puts you near Hahn airport, home of Europe’s most well-known budget airline, Ryanair. Events in the Hunsrück area are always pretty and this one shouldn’t be an exception. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken and 62 toward Trier. Exit at Birkenfeld (41) to use with B-41, B-269, B-327 and B-50 toward Hahn airport. Follow IVV signs as you approach the airport.
Start: Bürgerhalle at Talstraße 1
Saturday: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Sunday: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 6 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trails: Fairly hilly, woods and fields
Award: None.