Kamelfichte, Remarkable spruce tree at Achtermannshöhe, Harz, Germany

The Kamelfichte was a spruce that germinated in the 18th century on the hiking trail to the Achtermannshöhe in the Harz. After its tip was damaged twice, it grew 1.65 metres parallel to the ground, forming two humps, before the trunk rose vertically and produced a crown. It reached a height of twelve metres.

The tree began growing in the 18th century and survived two significant crown damages in its early years. It received official protection as a natural monument in April 1937, recognizing its value to the region.

The spruce's two-humped silhouette appeared on postcards, making it a known figure of the Harz. A sign near its original spot on the Achtermannshöhe trail explains the tree today, and since 2016 a replica of its trunk stands at the Kurteich pond in Braunlage.

An information sign marks the original location of the tree right beside the hiking path, making it easy to find during your walk. The site sits conveniently along the route to the summit and works well as a rest stop during a mountain hike.

In 2016, a replica of the tree's distinctive trunk was created and placed in Kurteich pond in the nearby town of Braunlage. This copy lets visitors experience the tree's unusual shape even when exploring that area.