Beyond Brücktorpark, the city begins to breathe – through allotments, nature trails, and the gentle slopes of the Knappehalde. Those who climb to the top are rewarded with a deluxe Ruhr panorama: views of CentrO, the Gasometer, and, in the distance, the Haniel spoil heap. The path then continues along old railway tracks – a section of the HOAG railway line, now a wild and romantic green space full of contrasts. You'll reach Haus Ripshorst on the Rhine-Herne Canal, where industrial nature meets the waterway.
Further south, the Ripshorst Bridge spans the canal – with a view of the "Sorcerer's Apprentice," the dancing electricity pylon. Shortly after, the panorama opens up at the Oberhausen Marina, where the "Centipede Bridge" crosses the canal, the Emscher River, and the A42 motorway – a place that feels like urban poetry made of steel. The Gasometer stands majestically opposite – a landmark, gallery, and rooftop terrace. Those with time to spare can experience art exhibitions with panoramic views.
The final leg of the trail leads across the old settling basin of the Osterfeld coal mine into OLGA Park: spacious, green, with an observation tower – a place to unwind and breathe deeply. The trail ends in the Eisenheim settlement, the birthplace of the Ruhr workers' spirit. Here, history meets the future, and the city meets structural change.
The starting point is directly at Oberhausen Central Station (Willy-Brandt-Platz 1, 46045 Oberhausen). It can be reached by car via several highways.
The starting point is the square in front of Oberhausen Central Station. From there, head straight into Grillopark, past the town hall, and after a few minutes you'll reach Theaterplatz with the listed Ebertbad public baths. Right next to it, ZAZA's Espressobar or Oli's kiosk invite you to take a short break. Afterwards, the path leads you through Brücktorpark and on through an allotment garden area until the route reaches Knappehalde. The alternative climb to the observation tower is worthwhile – on a clear day you can see CentrO, the Gasometer, and even the Haniel slag heap in the distance.
On the eastern side of the spoil heap, follow the path past Hostel Veritas, where you can take a break if needed. The trail then continues along a section of the historic HOAG railway line, a disused freight line now used as a green cycle and hiking path. After a short distance, you'll reach the Frintrop Railway Park and shortly afterwards the Ripshorst Arboretum with Haus Ripshorst, a visitor center run by the Ruhr Regional Association – perfect for a short break or to view a small exhibition.
Then follow the Rhine-Herne Canal, cross the Ripshorst Bridge and enjoy an unobstructed view of the iconic Sorcerer's Apprentice statue. Continue to the Oberhausen Marina, where you'll cross the Ruhr region's waterways and transport network via the striking Tausendfüßlerbrücke (Centipede Bridge) with a view of the Gasometer.
Those who wish can make a detour to CentrO – where industrial architecture meets urban lifestyle. Afterwards, the trail leads you across the old settling basin of the Osterfeld coal mine to OLGA Park, a sprawling former state garden show site with an observation tower. Passing through an allotment garden area, you finally reach the Eisenheim housing estate, where your tour ends. Thanks to excellent public transport connections, you can return directly to the main train station without long waits.
