Kahler Asten

The Kahler Asten reaches 841 metres in the Rothaargebirge and is among the highest points in North Rhine-Westphalia. Its name means bare Asten: the top is heath and bog rather than forest, kept open historically by grazing and burning and now maintained as a nature reserve for its upland plants. A weather station has operated here since 1918 and the summit is regularly the coldest and snowiest place named in German forecasts, which has made the name familiar nationally. An observation tower opened in 1895 stands beside it, and the weather station is housed in it. Winterberg below is one of Germany's main winter sports centres with a bobsleigh track.

What's there

• The bare summit - heath and bog kept open by grazing and burning below the natural tree line.
• The weather station - operating since 1918 and quoted in national forecasts.
• The Astenturm - an observation tower of 1895 with views over the Sauerland.
• The upland reserve - protected moorland plants on the plateau.

When to go

May to October for walking and the moorland flora; December to March for snow, when Winterberg's lifts operate. The summit is exposed and often in cloud.

Good to know

The summit is developed with a road, car park and buildings. Cloud and wind are frequent. The reserve restricts walking to marked paths.

Nearby

Winterberg lies below; the Atta cave is west.

Key facts