A narrow-gauge steam railway climbing from Wernigerode through Drei Annen Hohne and Schierke to the Brocken summit, one of the highest and most scenic steam-hauled rail journeys in Germany, still in daily operation.
The Brockenbahn is part of the wider Harzer Schmalspurbahnen network, a narrow-gauge steam railway system that has operated in the Harz since the late 19th century, and its climb from Wernigerode to the Brocken summit is the highest and steepest section, gaining over 700 metres of elevation on a 1,000mm gauge track through forest and open moorland. No fitness or experience is required to ride; passengers simply board at Wernigerode's Westerntor station (or intermediate stops at Drei Annen Hohne or Schierke) and the steam locomotive handles the climb. The full round trip from Wernigerode takes three to four hours including a stop at the summit, where passengers can explore the Brockenhaus visitor centre and Brockengarten botanical garden before the return journey; many hikers use the train one-way, walking up or down the mountain on foot for the other leg. Steam locomotives run daily year-round, including winter, when the railway is one of relatively few ways to reach the Brocken summit without a demanding snow hike, though winter operations depend on the line remaining clear of drifting snow. Tickets can be bought at the station or online, and reservations are recommended for busy summer weekends and around German public holidays.
| Price | €€ (round trip from €47 adults; one-way tickets available) |
|---|---|
| Duration | Round trip 3-4 hours; one-way about 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Season | May to September for clearer summit views; December for a snow-covered ride |
| Address | Wernigerode Westerntor station, Am Bahnhof, 38855 Wernigerode |
Activity facts
- Where
- Wernigerode to Brocken summit
Equipment
No special equipment required; warm layers recommended for the summit stop even in summer
Weather through the year in Germany
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Germany.
Location
Wernigerode Westerntor station, Am Bahnhof, 38855 Wernigerode
51.8347, 10.7842 View on map
Highlights
- Historic narrow-gauge steam railway in daily operation since the late 19th century
- Climbs over 700m of elevation from Wernigerode to the Brocken summit
- One of relatively few ways to reach the summit in winter without a demanding hike
- Popular one-way option for hikers walking the other direction on foot
Tips for visiting
- Book ahead for summer weekends and German public holidays, when trains sell out
- Bring warm layers for the summit stop, which is often colder and windier than the valley
- Consider a one-way ticket combined with a hike for a mix of walking and rail travel
- Check winter operating status in advance, as heavy snow can occasionally disrupt the schedule
Frequently asked questions
Does the Brockenbahn run year-round?
Yes, steam trains operate daily throughout the year, including winter, though heavy snow can occasionally affect the schedule.
How long does the full round trip take?
About three to four hours including time at the summit, or roughly one hour 45 minutes one-way.
Can hikers combine the train with walking?
Yes, many visitors ride the train one direction and walk the Brocken trail the other way.
Should tickets be booked in advance?
Advance booking is recommended for summer weekends and German public holidays, when trains can sell out.