European Day of Parks – Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park

The European Day of Parks is an international day of action with which the approximately four hundred national parks and over five thousand other protected areas in Europe jointly draw attention to their mission. In the Rhineland-Palatinate/Saarland region, the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park and the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park form a special constellation: both protected areas border each other, complement each other in their goals, and cooperate on many projects. The European Day of Parks 2026 is an opportunity to make this connection tangible.

The central event is a joint hike that starts simultaneously at two starting points: In Katzenloch (Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park) and in Allenbach in the Birkenfeld district (Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park), two hiking groups will set off at 11 a.m. Both groups will meet at Ringskopf, a distinctive ridge with a viewpoint located precisely on the border between the two protected areas. There will be a brief welcome, information about the joint work of the Nature Park and the National Park, and usually a small refreshment.

The hiking route covers about eight kilometers of medium difficulty. Sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are required; a small backpack with water and snacks is recommended. Participation is free of charge, but registration is requested via the Nature Park's administrative office – by email to [email protected] or by phone at 06503 92140. Those interested in the natural and cultural background information should not miss the accompanying tours led by Nature Park and National Park rangers, who will provide explanations at interesting points along the way.