Walk through Grunewald forest to the Teufelsberg, an artificial hill made of wartime rubble topped by abandoned NSA spy station. Views over west Berlin.
The Teufelsberg Trail is a short 5 km walk in Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, in western Berlin, leading through Grunewald forest to the artificial Teufelsberg hill. The nearest access point is S-Bahn Grunewald (S7), from which marked forest paths lead uphill, or visitors can drive to the small car park on Teufelsseechaussee near the base of the hill. Elevation gain is about 120 m to the summit, and the terrain is a gentle, sustained climb on packed-dirt and gravel forest tracks with no technical difficulty or scrambling. The lower forest sections are well shaded, while the open summit area around the former NSA listening station is fully exposed. Landmarks along the way include the Teufelssee lake at the base of the hill, the derelict radar domes of the former field station at the summit, and viewpoints over western Berlin and Grunewald forest, all of which make good turn-around points for a shorter walk. There are no refuge huts, but the summit station operates guided tours and a small cafe on weekends; water is not available on the forest sections, so hikers should carry their own.
| Distance | 5km |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1.5h |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Best season | April to October, when the summit ruins and Teufelssee lake are most accessible |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf
Highlights
- Cold War spy station
- 360° views of Berlin
- Fascinating history
- Forest scenery
Tips for visiting
- Buy a ticket in advance online for access to the abandoned spy station buildings at the summit
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the summit interior floors are uneven concrete and debris
- Combine the walk with a swim stop at Teufelssee lake in summer
- Avoid the muddy unpaved sections after heavy rain, particularly on the final approach to the summit
When to visit
Late morning on a clear day offers the best visibility from the summit over Berlin.
Accessibility
The forest approach path is unpaved and includes a sustained uphill grade, making it difficult for wheelchairs or strollers without assistance.
Frequently asked questions
Is entry to the former NSA station free?
No, entry to the abandoned station buildings requires a paid ticket, while the forest trail and hilltop grounds are free to walk.
How long does the walk take?
The full route to the summit and back takes about 1.5 hours at a relaxed pace.
Is the trail suitable for children?
Yes, the climb is gentle and the distance short, making it manageable for most children.
What is at the top of Teufelsberg?
The summit holds the graffiti-covered ruins of a Cold War-era listening station with panoramic views over Berlin.