Mining hiking trail Muttental, mining trail in Witten, Germany

The Bergbauwanderweg Muttental is a nine-kilometre circular route south of the Ruhr in the Muttental valley at Witten, laid out from 1972 and completed in 1977. Along it stand relics of several centuries of Ruhr mining: adits, pits, headframes, spoil heaps and loading facilities, each explained by a designed information board. The route also passes the miners' prayer house, the LWL Industrial Museum Zeche Nachtigall and the Hardenstein nature reserve.

Mining shafts in the Muttental region began operating in the 16th century and brought wealth to Witten for centuries. These operations transformed the landscape and became the foundation of the city's industrial development.

The trail takes its name from Muttental, a valley shaped by generations of mining workers. Along the way, visitors encounter remnants of shaft installations that show how mining was woven into the daily life of the community.

The trail begins at the Margarethe Shaft parking area and suits visitors with medium fitness levels due to its rolling elevation changes. Wear sturdy footwear and allow time to stop at informational stations along the way.

The trail was laid out from 1972 and completed in 1977, and its stations are looked after by the Förderverein Bergbauhistorischer Stätten Ruhrrevier. Near Herbede stands the Zeche Egbert, described as the last small mine of the Ruhr area. The route also passes through the Hardenstein nature reserve.