Hike in the footsteps of the wire traders: Experience history in the Märkisches Kreis!
On July 13, 2025, experience the historical hike on the Wire Trade Route in the Märkischer Kreis - a cultural and historical highlight!

Hike in the footsteps of the wire traders: Experience history in the Märkisches Kreis!
An exciting adventure awaits hiking enthusiasts on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Then the second stage of the wire trade route begins, which has established itself as a historically valuable trade and transport route between Lüdenscheid and Altena. This route, which was used by wire traders between the 17th and 19th centuries, leads through the picturesque landscape of the Märkisches Sauerland, known for its forests and valleys.
The event starts at 10 a.m. at the train station in Lüdenscheid. First you take the bus to Altroggenrahmede, from where the eight-kilometer hike begins. Participants can look forward to a four-hour hike along the Fuelbecke dam, past Rosmart and Horst to Altena. The hiking route is known for its varied nature - unpaved forest paths and narrow paths are inevitable here, as [Outdooractive](https://www.outdooractive.com/de/route/themenweg/sauerland/ Drahthandelsweg-reidemeister-karren-ketten-und-kaufmannsgilden/1504976/) reports.
Experience history up close
The wire trade route not only contributes to physical fitness, but also offers a culturally and historically relevant connection from A to B. This is where history comes to life: The transport of Osemund, an iron containing heavy metals, from Lüdenscheid to Altena was essential at the time in order to produce the wire for further processing in Iserlohn. The wire was used to make needles, eyelets and other products. With a total of 31 kilometers and 23 interesting stations, the themed hiking trail makes it possible to trace the traces of the masterminds (Zöger) and dealers, which the [city of Lüdenscheid](https://www.luedenscheid.de/freizeit-und-kultur/freizeit/wandern-in-luedenscheid/wanderrouten/ Drahthandelsweg) emphasizes.
Hiking the Wire Trading Trail is suitable for the whole family. Access is free for children and young people, while adults have to pay 8 euros to participate (plus bus travel costs). Registration is required and can be done via the nature park's website, where further information about the route and possible places to stop for refreshments can be found.
Explore nature
The route is of medium difficulty, meaning both fitness and technical skills are required. However, the hike also offers wonderful views of the surrounding nature, while guests can enjoy the fresh air and tranquil surroundings. This makes the tour an ideal destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
The return journey is easy by bus from Altena back to the starting point in Lüdenscheid. If you want to explore the charming surroundings of the Märkisches Sauerland, this event is the right place for you. Take the opportunity to join our nature park guide Alexander Neumann and experience a journey through the history of the wire industry!