Take A Hike

VOLKSMARCHING NOTES

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

– 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.”

– Many thanks to readers Pat and Cheryl Patterson, Barbara MacDonald, Johnette Scott, 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 KA’ in the subject line.

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

WEEKEND OF MAY 17-18

Bexbach (66450) — This Saarland event is in the area roughly between Ramstein and Saarbrücken. From Baumholder, use Autobahn 62 toward Landstuhl and connect with Autobahn 6 toward Saarbrücken. Exit at Homburg (9) to use secondary roads to reach Oberbexbach. From Ramstein and Landstuhl, use Autobahn 6 to reach the Homburg exit (9), then use secondary roads to the start at Bexbach.
Start: Sportheim Sportplatz “Auf der Heide”
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trails: Unknown
Award: None.

Bertrange, Luxembourg (L-8051) — This event is west 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 A3 toward Luxembourg City. Connect onto A6 toward Brussels, then exit at Bertrange (5) and follow IVV signs on N5 and CR163 to the start at Bertrange.
Start: Centre Atert on rue Atert
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

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).

Ennery, France (57365) — This event is north of Metz and about a 90-minute drive from the KMC. On the way to the event, you’ll pass by 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 (a tollroad) toward Metz, use exit 37 toward Ennery, and then take D1 and D52 to the start.
Start: Salle omnisport
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 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.

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, wanderers from the KMC and Baumholder will be able to stop by for a bit of shopping or to enjoy a bite to eat. 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. 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. 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

Achen, France (57412) — This event is southeast of Sarreguemines. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken and Zweibrücken, then take the Einöd exit (30) and B-423 toward Blieskastel. Pick up secondary roads there leading through Breitfurt, Gersheim, and Reinheim. After crossing into France, use D82, D82B and D110H south to the start at Achen.
Start: Foyer Socio-éducatif
Thursday: 6 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 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.
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.

Siersburg-Saar (66780) — This event on Germany’s Father’s Day is northwest of Saarlouis and available to KMC’s wanderers with a day’s leave from work. Use Autobahns 6 and 8 past Saarbrücken and Saarlouis. Exit at Rehlingen (7) and take a secondary road leading to the start at Siersburg.
Start: Niedtalhalle on Zur Niedtalhalle
Thursday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 15 km)
Trails: short trail is flat, others are unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF MAY 31-JUNE 1

Bischwiller, France (67240) — This French volksmarch event, held on Saturday, is west of Baden-Baden, Germany, and not far from Souflenheim’s pottery stores. Participants will also find themselves fairly near Haguenau and Strasbourg — both of which are worth exploring. 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 D 35A in France. Connect with N 62 to Haguenau and D 29 to reach Bischwiller and the start.
Start: Foyer St Léon on Rue Henri Pierson
Saturday: 3-8 p.m. (10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

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.

Soucht, France (57960) — This French volksmarching event is south of Zweibrücken and offers a marathon. The drive from the KMC should be scenic but long. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken and Zweibrücken. Exit at Zweibrücken-Ixheim (33) to take B-424 south to the border where it becomes D35A in France. Connect with D37 near Bitche to follow it through Lemberg and Goetzenbruck. Take a minor road through Meisenthal to reach Soucht.
Start: Salle polyvalente
Saturday and Sunday: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km) and 6-9 a.m. (42 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: Cloth patch (marathon).

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 KMC area is less than two hours. 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.

Buschdorf, Luxembourg (L-7418) — This Sunday event is northeast of Arlon, Belgium and about a two-hour drive from the KMC. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken, 62 and 1 to Trier, and 602 and 64 to the Luxembourg border. Cross into Luxembourg and continue on Autoroute A1 to the Luxembourg airport. Exit onto A7 and N11 toward Echternach to connect with CR126 to Walferdange, then use N7 north to Lorentzweiler, and A7 to Reckange. Take exit 4 to use N8 toward Reckange, and CR116 to Buschdorf and the start.
Start: Helpermaart
Sunday: 7 a.m. to noon (5 km) and 7-11 a.m. (10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Herbitzheim, France (67260) — This event is south of Saarbrücken in France. The drive from the KMC area is about 70 minutes. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 toward Saarbrücken, then briefly use A620 to exit onto B-51 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
Award: None.

Seibersbach (55444) — This event is west of Bingen and adjacent to the scenic Hunsrück region. The town and its walk are easily reached. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 63 toward Mainz and 61 toward Koblenz, then exit at Stromberg (46). Follow a minor road toward Rheinböllen to pick up the road to Seibersbach.
Start: Dorfgemeinschaftshaus on Soonwaldstraße
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: From previous events.

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.

Hoenheim, France (67370) — This event is just north of Strasbourg, making a visit to the historic city relatively easy. As a bonus for the two-hour autobahn drive from the KMC, you’ll pass by the French pottery town of Soufflenheim, itself worth a visit. 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 toward Strasbourg. Exit at La Wantzenau (50) to use the secondary roads D223, D263 and D468 to Hoenheim.
Start: Centre omnisports on rue du stade
Sunday: 2-8 p.m. (11 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

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

Cocheren, France (57800) — This event is just west of the French border southwest of Saarbrücken and east of St. Avold. Volksmarchers will find the event easily reached via Autobahn 6. From the KMC, use A6 past Saarbrücken toward the border, continuing toward Metz as it becomes A320 in France. While the brochure suggests the use of exit 41, a review of Google maps indicates an easier method might be to use exit 42. Take N3 in the direction of Merlebach and D29 south to Cocheren.
Start: Salle Schuman at the Place de la Fontaine
Sunday: 7 a.m. to noon (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Ehlenz/Südeifel (54636) — This event’s location is about 10 km or so up the road from Bitburg, making the drive from the KMC about 90 minutes long. From Baumholder, use Autobahns 62, 1 and 60 toward Trier and Wittlich, take the Bitburg exit (6) and use minor roads through Bickendorf to reach Ehlenz. 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)
Trails: Hilly, fields and woods
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)
Trails: Hilly, wooded areas
Award: None.

Retonfey, France (57645) — This event is just east of Metz. Getting there, about a 1 hour 20 minute drive from the KMC, will take you past the American Military Cemetery at St. Avold. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken to the border. Continue on French Autoroutes A320 and the A4 tollroad toward Metz, use exit 38 toward Boulay, and then take D19, D103M, D154C, D954 and D67 to Retonfey.
Start: Groupe Scolaire
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
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).

Thalexweiler (66822) — This event is southwest of Baumholder and north of Saarbrücken in the Saarland area. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarlouis and Autobahn 1 toward Trier. Exit at Tholey (140), take B-269 a short distance to Thalexweiler. From the Baumholder, area, use Autobahn 62 toward Trier. Connect with Autobahn 1 toward Saarbrücken and exit at Tholey (140) to use B-269 to the start.
Start: Don-Bosco-Halle on Friedhofstraße
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (15 and 20 km)
Trails: Unknown
Award: None.

Veckring, France (57950) — This event is about a 90-minute drive from Kaiserslautern and is roughly between Thionville and Saarlouis in Germany. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 past Saarbrücken and Saarlouis, then exit at Merzig (6) to cross the border head toward Thionville. Use D855 and D60 to reach Veckring and the start.
Start: Salle des fêtes
Sunday: 2 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Voellerdingen, France (67430) — This event is south of Saarbrücken and southeast of Sarralbe, France. The drive from the KMC area is a little more than an hour and a quarter. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 toward Saarbrücken, then briefly use A620 to exit onto B-51 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, D919 and D638 to reach Voellerdingen.
Start: Etang APP de Voellerdingen on rue Principale
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2

Bad Dürkheim (67098) — A midweek event for those in the KMC area who are free to enjoy a daytime walk in the pretty winemaking area of Bad Dürkheim. However, the event is about three-quarters of the way to Mannheim so expect a bit of a drive. From the KMC, use B-37 east directly to the start at Bad Dürkheim.
Start: Weingut Lang und Sohn at Weinstraße Nord 61
Wednesday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 11 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: From previous events.

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 and three-quarters from the KMC. 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.

Niederstinzel, France (57930) — This French volksmarch, found south of Saarbrücken, is easily reached by autobahn. 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 Sarre-Union exit (43). Take D8 through Sarre-Union and Sarrewerden to connect with D43 that takes you to Niedersteinzel’s start.
Start: Salle des Fêtes des Sapeurs-Pompiers
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 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.

WEEKEND OF JULY 19-20

Niederfeulen, Luxembourg (L-9175) — This event is north of Luxembourg City, and about a two hour drive from the KMC. 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. At Grevenmacher, connect with N14 toward Ettelbruck, then use CR347 to pick up N7 and N15 to the start at Niederfeulen.
Start: Centre culturel Hennesbau on rue de la Fail
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 12 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF AUG. 2-3

Ettelbruck/Deich, Luxembourg (L-9012) — This event is north of Luxembourg City; expect a two hour drive from the KMC. 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 and N14 toward Diekirch. At Stegen, pick up CR347 to Schieren, and then N7 north to Ettelbruck and the start.
Start: Hall Omnisports du Deich Frankie Hansen on rue du Deich
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 11 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Hottenbach (55758) — This walk is north of Idar-Oberstein and should offer wanderers a scenic trail in a very pretty area. From Baumholder, head toward Neubrücke to pick up B-41 north to Idar-Oberstein to connect with B-422. Briefly continue north on B-422 to Tiefenstein and then take minor roads through Herborn, Mörschied and Weiden in order to reach the start. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 62 to the Birkenfeld exit (4), then take B-41 north to B-422 at Idar-Oberstein. Use B-422 to Tiefenstein and then use minor roads through Herborn, Mörschied and Weiden to reach Hottenbach.
Start: Sportplatz
Saturday and Sunday: 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km)
Trail: Hilly, mostly woods
Award: Mounted gemstone.

WEEKEND OF AUG. 9-10

Miesau (66892) — Just west of Landstuhl and home to an Army depot, this walk is easily reached via the autobahn. Pretty trails are offered by a friendly club, as is (so I’m told) a delicious pea soup. From the KMC, use the Autobahn 6 exit for Bruchmühlbach-Miesau (11) and follow IVV signs a short distance to the start hall.
Start: Turn- und Festhalle on Jahnstraße
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Hilly, wooded areas
Award: None.

FRIDAY, AUG. 15

Weiterswiller, France (67340) — This end-of-week event is south of Bitche and west of Haguenau. It’ll require a fair amount of driving but there are a number of scenic roads and it should make for a pleasant day off from work. 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 in the direction of Bitche and connect with D620 to end up south of that town. Pick up D37 and follow it through Goetzenbruck to Moselle Bas-Rhin and pick up D12. Take that road through Wimmenau to then use D919 toward Ingwiller. Connect with D656 through Weinbourg to use D56 to the start at Weiterswiller.
Start: Salle polyvalente
Friday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF AUG. 16-17

Consdorf, Luxembourg (L-6213) — This event is almost a two-hour drive from the KMC, located about midway between Bitburg and Luxembourg City. Billed as Schluchtenwanderung, or canyon hiking, the trails will lead wanderers among and though rock formations. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken, 62 and 1 to Trier, and 602 and 64 to the Luxembourg border. Continue on Motorway A1 toward Luxembourg City, exit at Potaschbierg (13), and connect with N1 toward Larochette. Pick up N14 and CR136 to Brouch, then follow CR132, CR137, and CR118 to Consdorf and the start.
Start: Centre culturel Kuerzwénkel on route de Berdorf
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF AUG. 23-24

Dudelange, Luxembourg (L-3474) — This Sunday event, south of Luxembourg City, is about an hour and three-quarters from the KMC. Challenge-seeking wanderers will find routes of 30 and 42 km here. 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: Centre Sportif Lycée Nic Biever Annexe Alliance on Rue Reiteschkopp
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km), 7 a.m. to noon (20 km) and 6-9 a.m. (30 and 42 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: Patch and certificate (marathon).

Grosbliederstroff, France (57520) — This one-day French event is found due south of Saarbrücken and almost literally on the border. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 to connect briefly with Autobahn 620 at Saarbrücken. Immediately take the exit for B-51 south to Güdingen, cross the Saar River, and take B-405 to the border. Continue southbound in France on N61 to Grosbliederstroff.
Start: Salle de Jeux et Loisires on Rue des Fermes
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (11 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF AUG. 30-31

Bitche, France (57230) — This Marche Populaire event is south of Zweibrücken in France. Wanderers from the KMC area willing to make the drive will enjoy the option of mountain bike routes of 17 and 30 km. 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 using D620 and D35 to reach the start at Bitche.
Start: Etang du Hasselfurth
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km, plus cycling)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Contz-les-Bains, France (57480) — This event is adjacent to the French border, roughly midway between Merzig, Germany, and Luxembourg City. KMC’s wanderers will find the drive is almost entirely on the autobahn making it relatively easy to reach. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 past Saarbrücken and toward Luxembourg City. After Perl, the autobahn becomes A13 once the border is crossed. Immediately after entering Luxembourg, use exit 13 to the end of the ramp and turn right onto the road designated 152. Follow this road south to France and the town of Contz-les-Bains.
Start: Mille-Club, near the stadium (stade, in French)
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Unknown, expect wooded areas
Award: None.

Höheinöd (66989) — This walk, south of Landstuhl, is another of many available to wanderers from the KMC area. From Landstuhl, take Autobahn 62 south toward Pirmasens. Use the exit toward Sickinger Höhe/Rastplatz and follow IVV signs to the start.
Start: Sportplatz Sägmühle
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (17 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

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