Take a Hike

VOLKSMARCHING NOTES

– If anyone found a single walking boot at the Ramstein Roadrunners’ May 3-4 event at Ramstein-Miesenbach, please contact me at the e-mail address. The owner’s other foot misses it!

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

– 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, and Barbara MacDonald for continuing to send the event brochures that provide content to Take a Hike.

– 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.

SUNDAY, JUNE 29

Wiesbaden-Klarenthal (65197) — This event offers pretty wooded trails at this Sunday-only event. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 63 toward Mainz, and then 60 and 643 to Wiesbaden. After passing the Esso, begin to move into the left lane in order to pick up the 2nd Ring toward Klarenthal. Turn left onto Klarenthaler Straße and shortly thereafter left again as IVV signs assist drivers in reaching the start.
Start: Sophie-und-Hans-Scholl-Schule at Geschwister-Scholl-Str. 10
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Hilly, woods
Award: None.

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.
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 drive 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.

Wiebelskirchen bei Bauershaus (66540) — This Saarland event is due south of Neubrücke and just north of Neunkirchen. From Baumholder, start by heading toward Freisen and the autobahn, then continue through that town to connect with B-41. Use B-41 south past Ottweiler, then watch for IVV signs — the start is on B-41 between Ottweiler and Neunkirchen. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Neunkirchen and exit at Neunkirchen-Spiesen. Take B-41 north to find IVV signs; reaching Ottweiler means you’ve gone too far.
Start: Am Gegenortschacht Bauershaus on B-41
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 1 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: From previous events.

WEEKEND OF JULY 12-13

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.

Humes (66571) — This event is due north of Saarbrücken and just off Autobahn 1 making it easy to reach. From Baumholder, head south to pick up A-62 in the direction of Neubrücke and Trier. Connect with A-1 southbound toward Saarbrücken and exit at Illingen (142). Briefly follow a minor road toward Wiesbach before cutting off toward Humes and the start. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 8 and 1 toward Saarbrücken and Trier. Exit at Illingen (142) and use minor roads toward Wiesbach and Humes.
Start: Pfarrsaal on Pastor-Pfeil-Straße
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 1 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Postroff, France (57930) — This French volksmarch, found south of Saarbrücken, is a 90-minute drive from Kaiserslautern and easily reached. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken and into France where it becomes Autoroute A320. Connect with the A4 toll road toward Strasbourg and use the Sarre-Union exit (43). Connect with D1061 to Gungwiller, D340 to Eywiller, D40 to Hirschland, D690 to Baerendorf and, finally, D90 and D94 to reach Postroff’s start.
Start: École primaire
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

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

Eppelborn/Bubach (66571) — This event is due north of Saarbrücken and easily reached by autobahn from Baumholder as well as the KMC. From Baumholder, head south to pick up A-62 in the direction of Neubrücke and Trier. Connect with A-1 southbound toward Saarbrücken and exit at Eppelborn (141). Use B-10 toward Lebach to reach the start at Bubach. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 1 toward Saarbrücken. Exit at Eppelborn (141) and follow B-10 toward Lebach to reach Bubach.
Start: Hirschberghalle on St. Martin Straße
Saturday: 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 15 km) and 6 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

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.

Spabrücken (55595) — This event, in the Naturpark Soonwald-Nahe, is northwest of Bad Kreuznach and southwest of Bingen. Expect slightly more than an hour’s drive from Kaiserslautern. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 63 toward Mainz, and 61 toward Koblenz. Exit at Waldlaubersheim (47) and take secondary roads through Schweppenhausen and Schöneberg to reach Spabrücken.
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.

Wadgassen (66787) — This walk with a variety of trails is west of Völklingen and slightly less than an hour’s drive from Kaiserslautern. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 620 past Saarbrücken and toward Saarlouis. Use Exit 7 and follow IVV signs to the start.
Start: Schulturnhalle on Abteistraße
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6, 10, 15 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF JULY 26-27

Glan-Münchweiler (66907) — Here’s an event just up the autobahn from Landstuhl and home to a number of Americans. From Baumholder, head south to connect with Autobahn 62. Use A-62 toward Landstuhl and exit at Glan-Münchweiler (8), then follow IVV signs to the start. From the KMC area, use A-6 and A-62 to head north toward Trier. Exit at Glan-Münchweiler (8) and follow signs to the start.
Start: Sportplatz
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: From previous events.

Hülzweiler (66773) — This walk is a bit distant from the KMC, but certainly reachable, with its location just east of Saarlouis. From Baumholder, use Autobahns 62 and 1 toward Nonnwieler and Saarbrücken. Connect with Autobahn 8 toward Saarlouis and exit at Schwalbach (14), then use a minor road south to Hülzweiler. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken and Saarlouis. Exit at Schwalbach (14) and briefly head south to reach the start.
Start: Sportzentrum Schachen
Saturday and Sunday: 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (5 km), 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (10 km), 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. (15 km), and 6 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown, but expect hilly trails, woods
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.

Sulzbach (Hühnerfeld) (66280) — Although the event brochure prominently displays the name Hühnerfeld, wanderers will find the start to be just northeast of Saarbrücken in the town of Sulzbach. KMC-area volksmarchers will easily reach this walk via autobahn in about 45 minutes. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 toward Saarbrücken and exit at St. Ingbert-West. Follow IVV signs to the start.
Start: Gemeinschaftsschule at Parkstraße 10
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6, 10 and 20 km)
Sunday: 7 a.m. to noon (6, 10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF AUG. 9-10

Heffingen, Luxembourg (L-7651) — This event is about a 1 hour 40 minute drive from Kaiserslautern. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken, 62 and 1 to Trier, and 602 and 64 to the Luxembourg border. Continue on Autoroute A1 toward Luxembourg City, exit at Potaschbierg (13), and connect with N1 and N14 through Biwer. Continue on N14 (with a short jog onto N11) to the start at Heffingen.
Start: Kultur- und Sportzentrum on Stenkel Str.
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Konz-Krettnach (54329) — This walk is due south of Trier with a drive that’s a bit under 90 minutes from Kaiserslautern. Its proximity to Trier makes a visit to that historic city very convenient. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 62, 1 and 602 to Trier. At the end of A602, continue on B-49, B-51, and B-268 to Konz and follow IVV signs to the start at Krettnach. From Baumholder, head to Freisen to pick up with A62 toward Trier. Connect with Autobahns 1 and 602 to Trier, then use B-49, B-51, and B-268 to reach Krettnach.
Start: Bürgerhaus at Hauptstraße 10
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km) and 7-11 a.m. (30 km)
Trail: Flat (5 km) or hilly with scenic views, woods and fields
Award: None.

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’ve been 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

Clausen (66978) — This event is south of Kaiserslautern and should be rather enjoyable. From Kaiserslautern, use B-270 south toward Pirmasens. Connect with secondary roads at Waldfischbach-Burgalben leading to Donsieders and Clausen.
Start: Gräfensteinturnalle at Jahnweg 26
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: Unknown
Award: None.

Consdorf, Luxembourg (L-6213) — This event is about midway between Bitburg and Luxembourg City and is almost a two-hour drive from the KMC. 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.

Eischen, Luxembourg (L-8465) — This Saturday event is east of Arlon, Belgium and about a two hour drive from the KMC. The event offers its first marathon for those volksmarchers seeking a challenge. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken and 8 toward Perl and the border. After crossing into Luxembourg, continue on Autoroute A13. Connect with A3 north toward Luxembourg City, and A4 and A6 toward Esch-sur-Alzette and keep south and west of the city. Continue on A6 to exit 1, connect with N13 and N6 to Steinfort, and take CR106 and CR108 to Eischen.
Start: Centre Culturel Jean Wolff at place Denn
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 11 km), 7-11 a.m. (20 and 30 km) and 6-9 a.m. (42 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None or patch and certificate (marathon).

Siewiller, France (67320) — This French volksmarch is about a 90-minute drive from Kaiserslautern and easily reached. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken and into France where it becomes Autoroute A320. Connect with the A4 toll road toward Strasbourg and use the Sarre-Union exit (43). Connect with D1061 south to the start at Siewiller.
Start: Terrain de sport on rue du Stade
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Tiefenbach/Hunsrück (55471) — Wanderers should enjoy this walk in the scenic Hunsrück area. Tiefenbach is due west of Bingen and south of Simmern. The drive from Baumholder is about an hour. From Baumholder, use minor roads northward through Ruschberg, Reichenbach, and Frauenberg to connect with B-41 in Bad Kreuznach’s direction. At Simmertal, take B-421 north to Gemünden to pick up a minor road to Tiefenbach.
Start: Wildburghalle on Im Gründchen
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km)
Trail: Hilly, woods
Award: From previous events.

WEEKEND OF AUG. 23-24

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 Saarlouis-Mitte (3) and use B-405 through Felsberg and Ittersdorf to reach the border. Continue on French road D918 to Bouzonville and the start.
Start: Gymnase Norbert Noël
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

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.

Mannweiler-Cölln (67822) — This is an easy-to-reach event south of Bad Kreuznach; prior events had been held in the neighboring town of Schiersfeld. From the KMC, take Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 63 toward Mainz, and exit at Winnweiler (13). Use B-48 north toward Bad Kreuznach to reach the start.
Start: Gemeindehalle
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 11 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Hilly, woods and fields
Award: From previous events.

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.

Kirchberg (55481) — Enjoy seeing the Hunsrück region’s oldest town in one of Germany’s most scenic areas. From Baumholder, head east using the road bordering the training area to reach B-420 toward Bad Kreuznach. Connect with B-270 and B-41 toward Kirn, and B-421 north to Kirchberg.
Start: Stadthalle on Gartenstraße
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: Slightly hilly (with a steep hill following the last control); neighborhoods, woods and fields
Award: From previous events.

Schifflange, Luxembourg (L-3858) — This Saturday event is southwest of Luxembourg City and not far from the French border. Expect about a 90-minute drive from the KMC. The event is a first for the Schëfflenger Globetrotters club. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken and 8 toward Perl and the border. After crossing into Luxembourg, continue on Autoroute A13. Exit at Schifflange (6) and use CR169 to reach the start.
Start: Hall polyvalente at 12, rue Denis Netgen
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 3

Grolsheim (55459) — Celebrate the start of another school year by taking the family to this midweek event. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 63 toward Mainz, and 61 toward Koblenz, then exit at Bingen-Mitte (49) to pick up B-50. Take this south toward Bad Kreuznach and Grolsheim; follow IVV signs to the start. From Baumholder, head east using the road bordering the training area to reach B-420 toward Bad Kreuznach. Connect with B-270 toward Idar-Oberstein, B-41 toward Bad Kreuznach, and B-50 toward Bingen to find Grolsheim.
Start: Nahelandhalle at Aspisheimer Weg 32
Wednesday: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. (15 km)
Trail: Fairly flat, mostly fields, some woods
Award: From previous events.

WEEKEND OF SEPT. 6-7

Meisenthal, France (57960) — This French volksmarching event is south of Zweibrücken and offers evening start times. The drive from the KMC will be scenic but long — about 1 hour 15 minutes. 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. Connect with D37 near Bitche to follow it through Lemberg and Goetzenbruck. Take a minor road to Meisenthal and the start.
Start: Salle des fêtes at place de la Poste
Saturday: 3-8 p.m. (10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Wiesbaden-Delkenheim (65205) — The first event of the Wiesbaden International Wandering Club celebrates the welcome return of an active American club to this city. Saturday’s event deserves support from hometown folks as well as those further afield — it’s rare we hear of a new event. The start at Delkenheim is directly east of Clay Kaserne (formerly known as Wiesbaden Army Airfield). From Kaiserslautern, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 63 toward Mainz, 60 toward Frankfurt, and 671 toward Wiesbaden. Exit at Hochheim-Nord (4) to pick up B-40 toward Flörsheim, then take the exit for Delkenheim and follow IVV signs to the start.
Start: Bürgerhaus at Münchner Straße 2
Saturday and Sunday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km)
Trail: Mostly flat, stroller-friendly trails through fields
Award: None.

Willerwald, France (57430) — This event is south of Saarbrücken and easily reached from the KMC by autobahn. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken and into France where it becomes A320. Connect with the A4 toll road toward Strasbourg and use the Sarreguemines (42) exit. Take D661 a short distance to the start at Willerwald.
Start: Salle Socioculturelle on Rue de la Croix
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Wittlich-Neuerburg (54516) — East of Spangdahlem Air Base, this event should offer some scenic trails through the surrounding countryside. It’s not too far for volksmarchers from Baumholder and the KMC. From Baumholder, use Autobahns 62 and 1 toward Trier and Wittlich, take the Wittlich-Mitte exit (145) and follow IVV signs to the start at Neuerburg. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 62 and 1 toward Trier, Koblenz and Wittlich. Exit at Wittlich-Mitte exit (145) and follow IVV signs.
Start: Bürgerhalle on Tannenstraße
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6, 10 and 15 km)
Trail: Expect hilly, mostly wooded
Award: None.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 10

Bockenau (55595) — This event is due west of Bad Kreuznach on the year-round, permanent Hunsrück trail system. From Baumholder, use minor roads northward through Ruschberg, Reichenbach, and Frauenberg to connect with B-41 in Bad Kreuznach’s direction. At Waldböckelheim, take a minor road to Bockenau and the start.
Start: Bockenauer-Schweiz-Halle on Waldböckelheimer Straße
Wednesday: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (20 km)
Trail: Fairly hilly, woods
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF SEPT. 13-14

Forstfeld, France (67480) — This event is on the border east of Haguenau and northwest of Baden-Baden, Germany. Yes, it’s quite distant from the KMC (about 90 minutes) but offers the opportunity to visit Haguenau, Soufflenheim and Strasbourg in France as well as Baden-Baden. 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. Connect with N62 to Haguenau and N63 through Soufflenheim to Rountzenheim. Connect with a minor road to Roppenheim and another minor road to reach Forstfeld. An alternative route from the KMC via autobahn would be A-6 toward Mannheim, A-61 toward Ludwigshafen and A-65 toward Wörth. Exit at Kandel-Süd (22) to use B-9 into France and the A35 autobahn to exit 56 and Forstfeld.
Start: Salle Polyvalente
Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Kerbach, France (57460) — This French volksmarch, just across the border southwest of Saarbrücken, is easily reached by autobahn. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken and into France where it becomes A320. Use the Forbach-Centre exit (44) and D31 to Behren-lès-Forbach to connect with D31B and the start at Kerbach.
Start: Complexe Sportif on Rue du Stade
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 and 20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Mittelstrimmig (56858) — If a drive to Hahn airport isn’t too far then this event in the scenic Hunsrück region west of Bingen should be considered. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 63 toward Mainz, and 61 toward Koblenz. Take the Rheinböllen exit (45) to use B-50 toward Simmern, then at Kirchberg pick up B-421 to Panzweiler where a minor road will lead to Mittelstrimmig.
Start: Strimmiger-Berg-Halle
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (21 km)
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 21 km)
Trail: Hilly, fields and woods
Award: Offered, but no description.

WEEKEND OF SEPT. 20-21

Geudertheim, France (67170) — This Saturday event is roughly midway between Haguenau and Strasbourg, and about a 1 hour 45 minute drive from Kaiserslautern. Besides the opportunity to visit the historic city of Strasbourg, there’s also wine and cheese shopping at Haguenau’s Cora supermarket, and the many temptations of the pottery town of Soufflenheim. 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 Gambsheim (50) to use the secondary roads D94 and D97 to the start at Geudertheim.
Start: Salle polyvalente
Saturday: 3-8 p.m. (10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF SEPT. 27-28

Folschviller, France (57730) — This event is south of St. Avold and offers a variety of trails, to include a Saturday-only marathon. Volksmarchers will find the event easily reached via Autobahn 6. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken toward the border, continuing toward Metz as it becomes A320 in France. Use the Carling (39) exit, drive through St. Avold toward Altviller, and connect with D20 to bring you to Folschviller. Consider a visit to the American Military Cemetery at St. Avold before returning home.
Start: Centre Socio-Culturel et Sportif Marcel Martin
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km), 7 a.m. to noon (20 km), 7-10 a.m. (30 km) and 7-9 a.m. (42 km)
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km), 7 a.m. to noon (20 km) and 7-10 a.m. (30 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None (shorter trails) or patch and certificate (marathon).

WEEKEND OF OCT. 11-12

Valmont, France (57730) — This Sunday event is south of St. Avold. Volksmarchers will find the event easily reached via Autobahn 6. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken toward the border, continuing toward Metz as it becomes A320 in France. Use the Carling (39) exit, take D633 to St. Avold, then connect with D603 toward Trois Maisons, and pick up D910A south to Folschviller. From here, head back north on a minor road to the start at Valmont. Consider a visit to the American Military Cemetery in St. Avold — you drive past it on D633 — before returning home.
Start: Salle polyvalente
Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7:30 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF OCT. 18-19

Hohenöllen/Pfalz (67744) — Too distant for most readers, this event is closest to wanderers from Baumholder and the KMC. 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 the KMC, use B-420 north toward Lauterecken to Heinzenhausen and the minor road to the start.
Start: Radsporthalle at Am Heidchen 6
Saturday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km)
Sunday: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km)
Trail: Hilly, woods and fields
Award: None.

Roussy-le-Village, France (57330) — This Sunday event, roughly midway between Luxembourg City and Thionville, is about an hour’s drive from the Bitburg area and an hour and three-quarters from the KMC. The volksmarch includes 30- and 42-km trails for those seeking a challenge. 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 French border, then continue on D56 to Roussy-le-Village. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken, Saarlouis, Merzig and Perl. Continue across the Luxembourg border on Autoroute A13 and exit at Frisange (10). Pick up N3 toward Thionville and D653 to Roussy-le-Village and the start.
Start: Foyer Socioculturel Robert-Schuman
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km), 7-11 a.m. (30 km) and 7-9 a.m. (42 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Tétange, Luxembourg (L-3786) — This event is southwest of Luxembourg City with a drive of 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 on Autoroute A13 west to the Kayl exit (7) and connect with CR165. At Kayl, pick up N33 to lead you to the start at Tétange.
Start: Centre Culturel Schungfabrik at 14 rue Pierre Schiltz
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

WEEKEND OF OCT. 25-26

Mersch, Luxembourg (L-7505) — This event brings volksmarchers north of Luxembourg City. Expect 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. Continue on Autoroute A1 toward Luxembourg City, exit at Potaschbierg to take N1 and N14 through Biwer and Heffingen. Connect with CR119 at Larochette, pick up CR118 to Berschbach, and then use N7 and N8 to Mersch.
Start: Blannenheem at 47 rue de Luxembourg
Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 and 15 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

Reichstett, France (67116) — This Saturday event — billed as a Halloween March — north of Strasbourg and about a 1 hour 45 minute drive from the KMC. Besides the fun of a Halloween volksmarch in France, a visit to the pottery town of Soufflenheim, a look around the historic city of Strasbourg, or even a visit to the Cora supermarket in neighboring Mundolsheim should be added incentive to make the drive. From Kaiserslautern, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 61 towards Karlsruhe, and 65 toward Landau. Exit at Kandel-Süd (22), then use B-9 to cross the border and onto French Autoroute A35. Continue south to exit at Hoerdt (49) and use D37 to Reichstett.
Start: Salle des Fêtes
Saturday: 3-8 p.m. (10 km)
Trail: Unknown
Award: None.

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