Großvaterfelsen, Rock formation in Blankenburg, Germany.
Großvaterfelsen rises 317 meters above sea level at the western end of Teufelsmauer, featuring sandstone rock faces with metal safety railings at its summit. The formation includes natural stone steps and narrow rock passages that provide access through varying degrees of difficulty.
The sandstone layers of Großvaterfelsen formed roughly 85 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period and were later uplifted by geological forces along the Harz edge. These uplift processes created the dramatic rock formations that define the landscape today.
The summit features a weather vane from 1998 and serves as checkpoint number 76 in the Harzer Wandernadel stamp collection system for hikers. This marking system allows visitors to track their journeys across the region and collect achievement badges.
Visitors can begin their hike from the Gasthof Großvater parking area and follow a marked trail for approximately 15 minutes to reach the top. The terrain provides natural handholds and steps, allowing guests to adjust their route based on their comfort level.
The formation contains narrow crevices and passages between rock blocks that visitors must squeeze through to reach the viewpoint. These hidden routes add a sense of adventure to the climb and make the experience more engaging for those seeking a challenge.
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