Schwerter Wald

Schwerter Wald is a protected forest area between Schwerte and Dortmund that stretches in a northeast to southwest direction. The wooded area offers walking paths through various vegetation zones and natural habitats.

The area saw a rise in visitors after the opening of a tram line in 1899 that drew people from nearby towns. The connection through public transport was discontinued in 1971.

The forest has long served as a retreat for people from nearby industrial cities seeking time in nature. Visitors today use it as a place to walk and escape the rush of daily life.

The forest is best explored on foot, with multiple entrances at various points for flexible route planning. It helps to wear sturdy footwear since the paths have varying conditions depending on the season.

In the Dortmund part of the forest lie ancient burial mounds that represent archaeological monuments showing the region's long settlement history. These buried structures from early periods are barely visible today but are registered as cultural assets.

Location: Schwerte

Location: Dortmund

Location: North Rhine-Westphalia

GPS coordinates: 51.46500,7.55333

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:22