Forest areas: Üfter Mark and Dämmerwald

In the Üfter Mark and Dämmerwald forests, north of Schermbeck, these shy animals can still find something that has become rare – space. Space to live, to roam, to retreat.

Red deer in open countryside are now a rare sight in the lowlands. Human activity has encroached too much on their habitat. This makes these two large forest areas all the more special, where the forest remains contiguous, dense, and vibrant. With luck – and patience – you might even spot a stag. More likely, however, is hearing one: In autumn, during the rut, the deep bellowing of the dominant stags echoes through the forest as they fight for their herds. A truly awe-inspiring experience. After the rut, a dominant female takes over leadership of the family – until the cycle repeats itself the following autumn.

The Üfter Mark and the Dämmerwald form the green heart of a large area Waldbandit, which runs right through the Naturpark It stretches from the Haard in the east to the Diersfordt Forest near Wesel in the west. A vast, diverse woodland landscape that invites exploration, relaxation, and wonder – and is by no means only home to red and wild boar.

The ant trail in the Üfter Mark is a special experience for explorers of all ages. Along the path, you'll playfully learn fascinating facts about the lives of various forest inhabitants – and see or feel the forest from a completely new perspective, perhaps even barefoot.

The best way to experience this unique forest world is on foot. Several attractive hiking trails lead right through it: On the Stages 2 and 3 of the Hohe Mark Steigs You immerse yourself deep in the silent forests. Even the Landstreifer "Üfter Mark" It shows you the most beautiful corners of this area – with dense forests, wide clearings, and always the faint hope of encountering the "king of the forest." If you cycle on the Stage 7 of the Hohe Mark Cycle Route or on the detour of the "Finding Favorite Places Tour" If you're on the go, it's worth getting off the bus for a while.