Stapenberg

Stapenberg is a hill spur in the Harz Mountains, rising 443 metres above sea level. It lies on the northern edge of the Harz within the Harz/Saxony-Anhalt Nature Park. The hill stands southwest of the village of Benzingerode in the borough of Wernigerode. To the north the land falls away into the northern Harz Foreland. In 1470 the hill came into the ownership of a local knight, Hans Knauth. The Stapenberg is known for its views of the Brocken, the highest peak in the Harz. Logging on the summit has opened sightlines over the northern Harz Foreland between Wernigerode and Heimburg. A steeply climbing footpath runs over the hill from Benzingerode towards the Hermannsweg and Wernigerode Castle or towards Elbingerode. On the summit is check point no. 33 in the Harzer Wandernadel walking trail network. Visitors find a clear path that leads to the summit viewpoint. From there the Brocken can be seen on the horizon. Below, the foreland stretches out between Wernigerode and Heimburg. The steep climb rewards walkers with wide views of the surrounding countryside. The Harzer Wandernadel marker at the top marks the spot for hikers to sign their names.