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Home , Berschweiler bei Kirn, Bogel, Boofzheim, Fischbach (Taunus), Gemmerich, Katzweiler

TAKE A HIKE -- The U.S. Army Garrison ’s monthly volksmarching feature. By Donald Seltzer

For immediate distribution to all Public Affairs Offices and publication on the Herald Union Website.

Volksmarching Notes

(bullet ) As of this writing, no travel restrictions are in place for neighboring countries. When considering participation at events outside of , volksmarchers are advised to check with their command for any new travel restrictions.

(bullet ) Interested in volksmarching but not sure how things work? Send an email message to [email protected] with the subject “Getting Started HU.”

(bullet ) Many thanks to Spangdahlem volksmarchers Pat & Cheryl Patterson and Wiesbaden’s James Meredith for providing the event brochures that help make this feature possible.

(bullet ) Take a moment to grab a set of brochures from the Werber table and send them via no-cost MPS to Donald Seltzer, PSC 2 Box 10684, APO AE 09012.

(bullet ) Got a comment? Found something you’d like to correct? Want to change ‘unknown’ to a useful trail description? Write me at [email protected] with the subject “Feedback HU.”

(bullet ) Would you like to receive Take a Hike at the same time as the newspaper editor? The complete, unedited version of the monthly volksmarching feature is available in its original Word document format by sending an email message to [email protected] with “Subscribe HU” in the subject line.

(bullet ) Find additional event choices at http://www.herald-union.com/ and look for the Travel and Leisure section .

Weekend of Sept. 17-18

Bertrange, (L-8051) -- This event is west of . It’s a long drive from the KMC (about 1 hour 45 minutes) but should be easily done using ; it’s slightly less than an hour from Bitburg. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 past Saarbrücken, and Merzig to the border at Perl. After crossing into Luxembourg, continue west on Autoroute A13 to connect with the A3/E25 toward Luxembourg City. Connect onto A6 toward , then exit at Bertrange (5) and follow IVV signs on N5 and CR163 to the start at Bertrange. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B51 south to Neuhaus and pick up 64 to Luxembourg. After crossing the border, the autobahn becomes A1/E44. Bypass Luxembourg City

to the south using A1 to connect with A6, then exit at Bertrange (5) and follow IVV signs to the start at Bertrange. Start: Centre Atert on rue Atert Saturday: Noon to 4 p.m. (6 and 12 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Mittelstrimmig (56858) -- If a drive to Hahn airport isn't too far then this event in the scenic Hunsrück region west of Bingen should be considered. From Wiesbaden, use Autobahns 643 over the Schiersteiner bridge, 60 toward Bingen, and 61 toward . Exit at Rheinböllen (45) to use B50 toward and Kirchberg, then take B421 through Kappel to a minor road leading to and . From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward , 63 toward , and 61 toward Koblenz. Take the Rheinböllen exit (45) to use B50 toward Simmern, then at Kirchberg pick up B421 to Panzweiler where a minor road will lead to Mittelstrimmig. Start: Gemeindehaus at Schulstr. 1 Saturday: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km) Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km) Trail: Hilly, fields and woods Award: From previous events.

Wiltz, Luxembourg (L-9536) -- This walk is about a 75-minute scenic drive west of Bitburg. The town of Bastogne, Belgium, is only 20 minutes further and is certainly worth a visit. Also, a visit to a beer museum is included in the event. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B50 west to the border. At the town of Roth an der Our, turn off on N17 (Rue de la Frontière, then Rue de la Gare) to cross into Luxembourg. Continue on N17 to N10, then head north to Bivels. Continue on N10 to pick up CR320 at Stolzembourg. Follow CR320 and CR322 to Kautenbach, then use N25 north to the start at Wiltz. Start: Hall sportif on avenue Nicolas Kreins Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km) Trail: 6 km trail is stroller- friendly Award: None.

Weekend of Sept. 24-25

Gusenburg (54413) -- This event is easily reached from as well as the KMC. Gusenburg is located just off Autobahn 1 (heading toward ) and reached via the exit (133) and a secondary road. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 62 and 1 toward Trier to reach the Hermskeil exit (133) and the minor road to Gusenburg. Start: Mehrzweckhalle on Vogtstraße Saturday: 1-6 p.m. (6 and 10 km) Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 10 km) Trail: Fairly hilly, woods and fields Award: None.

Lanaken-Gellik, Belgium (B-3620) -- This event, with a variety of trails that includes a marathon, is across the Dutch-Belgian border from Maastricht, , and northeast of that city. Volksmarchers from Bitburg should reach the walk in about 1 hour 45 minutes. An overnight stay to further explore the area, nearby Maastricht, or even Tongeren with its Sunday-morning flea markets, is something to consider. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B51 north to pick up Autobahn 60 to the border. After crossing into Belgium, continue on A27/E42 to Battice, then connect with A3/E42 toward Bruxelles. At the Cheratte interchange, pick up A25/E25 toward Maastricht. Cross into the Netherlands and continue on A2/E25 to

the Knooppunt Europaplein interchange, then follow signs for N278 toward Centrum/Ring-Zuid. Use N278 to cross the Meuse River, then local roads Hertogsignel, Sint Annalaan, and Via Regia to cross the Albert Canal. Connect with N2, N78, Kompveldstraat, and Wijerdijk to reach Gellik. Start: OC ‘t Kloester at Biesweg 18 Sunday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (4, 6, 12, 21 30, and 43 km) Trail: Unknown Award: Unknown Note: Start times for the specific trails were not provided.

Reinheim-Zeilhard (64354) -- This event, about 50 minutes from Wiesbaden, is on the edge of the scenic Odenwald area southeast of and offers a marathon on both days. From Wiesbaden, use Autobahns 671, 60, and 67 toward Darmstadt. Connect with A672 toward Darmstadt Stadtmitte and Griesheim, then follow B26 through the city toward Dieburg. Take the Reinheim exit onto B38, and use IVV signs on minor roads to reach the start in Zeilhard. Start: Turnhalle at Walter-Kolb Straße 8 Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (6 and 12 km), 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km) and 7-9 a.m. (42 km) Trail: New trails expected to be hilly, woods and fields Award: From previous events (shorter trails) or patch and certificate (marathon).

Siersburg-Saar (66780) -- This event is northwest of Saarlouis and just this side of the French border. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 past Saarbrücken and Saarlouis. Exit at Rehlingen (7) to use minor roads a short distance to reach Siersburg and the start. Start: Niedtalhalle on Zur Niedtalhalle Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (15 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Worriken, Belgium (B-4750) -- This Belgian event is east of Malmedy, and is about an hour’s drive from Bitburg. From Bitburg, use B51 north to connect with Autobahn 60 toward . Continue on A27/E42 after crossing into Belgium and exit at Vielsalm (14). Use N670 toward Wallerode, N676 toward Amel, N658 through Morsheck, and N632 toward Bütgenbach and the start at Worriken. Start: Sport- und Freizeitzentrum Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (7, 7, 12 and 20 km) Trail: Unknown Award: Sticker

Weekend of Sept. 30-Oct. 2

Berschweiler bei (55608) -- This event is northeast of Idar- Oberstein. From the KMC, head north on B270 to Idar-Oberstein, then connect with minor roads through leading to the start at Berschweiler. From Baumholder, use secondary roads leading north to Idar- Oberstein, then connect with B41 in the direction of . Turn off to drive through Fischbach and continue on minor roads to Berschweiler and the start. Start: Gasthaus Schmidthöfer at Rathausstr. 26 Saturday: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km) Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7-11 a.m. (20 km) Trail: Hilly, woods and fields Award: None.

Folschviller, (F-57730) -- This event is south of St. Avold and offers a variety of trails, to include a 42-km marathon. Volksmarchers will find the event easily reached via Autobahn 6. From the KMC, use

Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken toward the border, continuing toward as it becomes A320 in France, then the A4 toll road. Use the Carling (39) exit, drive through St. Avold toward Altviller, and connect with D20 to bring you to Folschviller. Consider a visit to the American Military Cemetery at St. Avold before returning home. Start: Centre Socio-Culturel et Sportif Marcel Martin on Rue Usson du Poitou Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km), 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (15 km), 7 a.m. to noon (20 km), 7-10 a.m. (30 km) and 7-9 a.m. (42 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None (shorter trails) or patch and certificate (marathon).

Fulda (36043) -- Three days of walking are offered this weekend near the former American base which now houses refugees. A wide variety of routes are being offered as well as International Marching League credit (requiring two days of walking) and EVG-D credit (a similar organization to the DVV-German Volkssport Association). Buffets will be offered Friday and Saturday nights. Bus transfers will incur a small fee. Participants will find the start off of B254 in the direction of Haimbach using IVV signs. Start: Deutsch-Amerikanisches-Sportzentrum at the intersection of Washingtonallee and Black-Horse-Straße Friday: 2-5 p.m. (6 and 11 km) Saturday: 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6 and 11 km), 7:45-8:30 a.m. (21 km), and 6:15-7 a.m. (bus transfer for 42 km) Sunday: 7:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6 and 11 km), 7:15-10 a.m. (21 km) and 7:15-8 a.m. (42 km) Trail: Fairly hilly, woods and fields Award: None, patch and certificate (42 km) or medal (two- day participation).

Longvilly, Belgium (B-6600) -- This Saturday event is east of Bastogne and close to the Belgian-Luxembourg border, and about a 75-minute drive from Bitburg. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B51 north to Autobahn 60 toward the border and St. Vith. After crossing into Belgium, continue on Autoroute A27/E42 to the St. Vith exit (15), then connect with N62 south to Wemperhaardt. Cross into Luxembourg and continue southward on N12 to Féitsch, pick up N20 west to the Belgian border, and use N874 after crossing the border to reach Longvilly. Start: Local Les Hirondelles on rue de Clervaux Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (4, 7, 13, and 20 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Wiesbaden-Delkenheim (65205) -- This third event of the Wiesbaden International Wandering Club (WIWC) continues cementing its reputation for being one of the few remaining active American clubs. The start at Delkenheim is directly east of Clay Kaserne. From , use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 63 toward Mainz, 60 toward , and 671 toward Wiesbaden. Exit at Hochheim-Nord (4) to pick up B40 toward Flörsheim, then take the exit for Delkenheim and follow IVV signs to the start. From Wiesbaden, use the Wiesbaden-Nordenstadt exit (7) from Autobahn 66. Turn toward Delkenheim and follow IVV signs. Start: Bürgerhaus at Münchner Straße 2 Saturday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 12 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km) Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5 and 12 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km) Trail: Mostly flat, stroller-friendly trails through fields Award: None.

Monday, Oct. 3

Dudweiler (66125) -- This German Unification Day event, with its annual support of Cystic Fibrosis research through the “Germany Wanders – Germany Helps” program, is northeast of Saarbrücken and easily reachable from the KMC. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6, 8 and 623 toward Saarbrücken and exit at St. Ingbert-West (5). Follow IVV signs to the start. Start: Bürgerhaus at Am Markt 115 Monday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 and 15 km) Trails: Unknown Award: None, but €1 of your start fee goes to the research.

Limburg an der (65549) -- This Monday event, held annually on the German Reunification holiday, brings wanderers to the Limburg area for the “Germany Wanders – Germany Helps” campaign to benefit Cystic Fibrosis Research. From Wiesbaden, use Autobahn 3 toward Köln and exit at Limburg- Nord (42). Cross the Lahnbrücke bridge and turn right at the second street. IVV signs will be posted. Start: Markthalle on Ste.-Foy-Straße Monday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6 and 12 km) Trail: Hilly, woods Award: The satisfaction of knowing €1 of your start fee goes to the research.

Weiler bei (55627) -- Another German Reunification holiday event, this time in Rheinland-Pfalz between Idar-Oberstein and Bad Kreuznach, continues the “Germany Wanders – Germany Helps” program to benefit Cystic Fibrosis Research. From Wiesbaden, use Autobahns 643 toward Mainz, 60 toward Bingen, and 61 toward . Exit at Bad Kreuzach (51) to continue on B41 toward Kirn. After Monzingen, watch for IVV signs to direct you onto a minor road to the start at Weiler. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 63 toward Mainz, and 61 toward Koblenz. Use exit 51 at Bad Kreuznach to connect with B41 toward Kirn. Watch for IVV signs after Monzingen to lead you to Weiler and the start. From Baumholder, head east alongside the training area boundary to connect with B420 to , then B270 to Fischbach, and B41 toward Bad Kreuznach. Once past , look for IVV signs to direct you to Weiler. Start: Gemeindehalle at Idarstr. 13 on Ste.-Foy-Straße Monday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6 and 12 km) Trail: Hilly, woods Award: None, but proceeds from the event are donated to the research project.

Weekend of Oct. 8-9

Dachsenhausen (56340) -- Participants will be rewarded for the long drive with trails winding along the edge of the Naturpark southeast of Koblenz. From Wiesbaden, a scenic drive uses B42 and B260 toward Koblenz, then connects with B274 to reach . Follow secondary roads to Ruppertshofen, and the start at . Start: Bürgerhaus at Emser Straße 2a Saturday and Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km) Trail: Mostly hilly, woods Award: None.

Illingen-Hirzweiler (66557) -- This event is west-northwest of Neunkirchen in the area. From the KMC area, use Autobahns 6, 8 and 1 toward Trier and exit at Illingen (142). Follow secondary roads east through Uchtelfangen, Illingen and Hüttigweiler to reach the start. From Baumholder, use Autobahns 62 toward Trier and 1 toward Saarbrücken. Exit

at Eppelborn (141). Take secondary roads through Dirmingen, Wustweiler, Illingen and Hüttigweiler to reach Hirzweiler. Start: Dorfwaldhalle on Leiwieser Straße Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6, 10 and 15 km) Trails: Unknown Award: None.

Morbach-Bischofsdhron (54497) -- This event is close to Idar-Oberstein. From Baumholder, take minor roads west to and connect with B269. Drive north to Morbach and Bischofsdhron to reach the start. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken and 62 toward Trier. Exit at Birkenfeld (4), use B41 north toward Birkenfeld, then B269 to Morbach and Bischofsdhron’s start. Start: Gemeindehaus at Zur Rau 2 Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 km), 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km) Trail: Hilly, woods Award: None.

Wiesviller, France (F-57200) -- This walk is south of Saarbrücken and just on the other side of the border. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken and toward Zweibrücken. Exit at Einöd (30) to use B423 toward Sarreguemines. After crossing the border, connect with N62 toward Bitche to find a minor road to Wiesviller and the start. Start: Salle polyvalente on rue des Jandins Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Wednesday, Oct. 12

Eguelshardt, France (F-57230) -- This midweek event is southeast of Bitche and offers a long, but fairly pleasant drive to France that avoids autobahns. From the KMC, take B270 south through Pirmasens, Niedersimten, Obesimten, Trulben and Schweix. Continue into France on D86B to Bitche, then pickup D662 through Stockbronn to reach Eguelshardt. Start: Salle socioculturelle Wednesday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Weekend of Oct. 15-16

Aarbergen-Daisbach (65326) -- This event is in the Naturpark Rhein- south of Limburg. Wanderers will enjoy the fall colors while completing one of a variety of trails, to include a 42-km marathon for challenge- seekers. Additionally, four Geocaching trails are available. From Wiesbaden, use Autobahn 3 toward Limburg and exit at (44). Follow secondary roads through the towns of Beuerbach, Ketternschwalbach and Panrod to reach the start in Daisbach. Start: Haus der Vereine at Schulstraße 8 (parking at Am Volpertsberg 2) Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 km), 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (11 km), 7 a.m. to noon (20 km), 7-11 a.m. (25 km), 7-10 a.m. (31 km) and 7-9 a.m. (42 km); 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Geocaching 5 km), 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Geocaching 12 km), 8 a.m. to noon (Geocaching 20 km) and 8-10 a.m. (Geocaching 30 km) Trail: Very hilly, woods Award: None or patch and certificate (marathon).

Bous, Luxembourg (L-5407) -- This event is southeast of Luxembourg City with a drive of about 50 minutes from Bitburg and 90 minutes from the KMC. From Bitburg, take B51 south toward Trier, then connect with A64 toward

Luxembourg. Cross the border to continue on A1/E44 to the Munsbach exit (11). Take CR132 through Munsbach and N28 to Bous. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken and 8 toward Saarlouis and Perl. Take the Perl exit (2) to connect with B419 to Nennig, then pick up B406/E29 to cross the and reach the border. After crossing into Luxembourg, continue on E29 to the start at Bous. Start: omnisports on rue de Stadtbredimus Saturday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 8 a.m. to noon (20 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Valmont, France (F-57730) -- This Sunday event is south of St. Avold. Volksmarchers will find the event easily reached via Autobahn 6. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 past Saarbrücken toward the border. Once in France, continue toward Metz on A320 and A4 (toll road with automated toll collection). Use the Carling (39) exit, take D633 to St. Avold, then connect with D603 toward Trois Maisons, and pick up D910A south to Folschviller. From here, head back north on a minor road to the start at Valmont. Consider a visit to the American Military Cemetery in St. Avold - - you drive past it on D633 -- before returning home. Start: Salle polyvalente Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 km) and 7:30 a.m. to noon (20 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Weekend of Oct. 22-23

Hohenöllen/Pfalz (67744) -- This midweek event is closest to wanderers from Baumholder and the KMC (both about 40 minutes). From Baumholder, head east toward Lauterecken using the minor road bordering the training area to reach B420 at Rathsweiler. Take B420 to Lauterecken, then B270 south to Heinzenhausen to pick up another secondary road a short distance to Hohenöllen. From Kaiserslautern, use B270 north through Katzweiler and Wolfstein, then use a minor road through Oberweiler-Tiefenbach and Einöllen to the start. Start: Radsporthalle at Am Heidchen 6 Saturday and Sunday: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km) Trail: Hilly walking trails, woods and fields Award: None.

Montenau, Belgium (B-4770) -- This Belgian event is roughly midway between St. Vith and Malmedy, and is slightly less than an hour’s drive from Bitburg. From Bitburg, use B51 north to connect with Autobahn 60 toward Aachen. Continue on A27 after crossing into Belgium and exit at Recht (13). Use N62 north toward Recht, then connect with N659 to Born, and pick up minor roads to the start at Montenau. Start: Schützenhalle Saturday and Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (3, 6, 10 and 20 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Morbach (54497) -- This event is northwest of Idar-Oberstein and within a reasonable distance from Baumholder. Morbach is on B327 just north of the junction with B269. Use B422 from Idar-Oberstein to reach B269. From Baumholder, connect with B41/269 to head north on B269 to reach Morbach. From the KMC, take Autobahns 6 toward Saarbrücken and 62 toward Trier. Exit at Birkenfeld (4) and use B41 and B269 north through Birkenfeld to Morbach and the start.

Start: Baldenauhalle at Jahnstraße 5 Saturday and Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 10 km) and 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km) Trail: Hilly, woods Award: None.

Weekend of Oct. 29-30

Bascharage, Luxembourg (L-4920) -- This event is west-southwest of Luxembourg City with a drive of an hour and three-quarters from the KMC and an hour from Bitburg. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 and 8 toward Saarbrücken, Saarlouis, Merzig and Perl. Continue across the border onto Autoroute A13 west toward Luxembourg City, Esch-sur-Alzette and Pétange. At the autoroute’s end at Foetz, merge onto A4 toward Differdange. Exit at Differdange to pick up the A13 toward Pétange. Take exit 1 for N5 to Bascharage and the start. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B51 south to Neuhaus. Take Autobahn 64 to cross the Luxembourg border, continue on Autoroutes A1/E44 toward Luxembourg City, A4 and A6 to skirt the southern side of Luxembourg City, A4 toward Esch-sur-Alzette, and exit at Differdange to pick up the A13 toward Pétange. Take exit 1 for N5 to Bascharage and the start. Start: Hall 75 on rue de l’eau Sunday: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (6 and 12 km) and 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Kindsbach (66862) -- This walk, on the road between Einsiedlerhof and , is certainly convenient to the KMC's wanderers, many of whom live in the town. is just a kilometer south of Autobahn 6's Landstuhl exit (13) making it just as easy, but longer, to reach from other communities. Start: Mehrzweckhalle at Marktstraße 27 Saturday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (20 km) Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to noon (20 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Reichstett, France (F-67116) -- This event is between and , making a side visit to either of these places relatively easy. The walk celebrates the upcoming Halloween day so expect costumes and decorations. It’s about an hour-and-three-quarters drive from the KMC but most of it is on the autobahn. From the KMC, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 61 toward and 65 toward Landau. Exit at Kandel-Süd (22) to use B9 south to the border, and continue on French Autoroute A35. Exit at Hoerdt (49) to use the secondary roadD37 to the start at . Start: Complexe sportif on Rue de Picardie Saturday: 3-8 p.m. (10 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Siersthal, France (F-57410) -- This French event, southeast of Saarbrücken, is the second for the host club and includes views of many Maginot Line fortifications. A three-hour tour of the underground complex is available -- check the Simserhof’s website ( www.simserhof.fr ) for more information in French. Use the contacts link to reserve a tour in English. From the KMC area, use Autobahn 6 to Neunkirchen and Autobahn 8 toward Zweibrücken. Exit at Zweibrücken-Ixheim (33) and use B24 south toward the border where it becomes D35A in France. Just before reaching Bitche, take the secondary roads D35/D662 to the start at Siersthal.

Start: Simserhof on Rue André Maginot, Le Légeret Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6 and 10 km) Trail: Not stroller- or handicapped-friendly Award: None.

Winningen an der Mosel (56333) -- This event is listed for its challenges in the Koblenz area along the picturesque Mosel river. Participants will find, in addition to the usual distances, trails of 42 and 50 kilometers, plus a 25-km cycling route. From Wiesbaden, use Autobahns 60 toward Bingen and 61 north toward Koblenz, then exit at Koblenz-Metternich (38). Follow IVV signs on secondary roads to the start in Winningen. From the Bitburg/Spangdahlem area, head north on B51 to Autobahn 60, then continue east toward Wittlich. Connect with A1 and A48 toward Koblenz. Pick up A61 toward Mainz and exit at Koblenz-Metternich (38). Follow minor roads and IVV signs to Winningen. Start: August-Horch-Halle at intersection of Uhlenweg and Marktstraße (Uhlenweg 2) Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km, plus cycling), 7-9 a.m. (42 km) and 7-8 a.m. (50 km) Trail: Very hilly, woods Award: From previous events (shorter trails) or patch and certificate (marathon trails).

Tuesday, Nov. 1

Hof/Westerwald (56472) -- This German-holiday event is north of Limburg and west of , and features the scenery of the Hoher Westerwald area. From Wiesbaden, use Autobahns 66 toward Frankfurt and 3 toward Limburg. Take the exit onto B49/B54 and use B54 north through to connect with B414 to Hof. Start: Mehrzweckhalle on Tierparkstraße Tuesday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5, 10 and 20 km) Trail: Very hilly, wooded areas Award: None.

Wednesday, Nov. 9

Lanaken-Gellik, Belgium (B-3620) -- This event is across from Maastricht, Netherlands, and near the Dutch-Belgian border. Volksmarchers from Bitburg should reach the walk in about 1 hour 45 minutes. An overnight stay to further explore the area or nearby Maastricht is something to consider. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B51 north to pick up Autobahn 60 to the border. After crossing into Belgium, continue on A27/E42 to Battice, then connect with A3/E42 toward Bruxelles. At the Vottem interchange, pick up A13/E313 toward Anvers, then exit at Tongeren (32). Use N79 toward Maastricht and N78 to Gellik. Start: OC ‘t Kloester at Biesweg 18 Sunday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (4, 8, 12 and 20 km) Trail: Unknown Award: Unknown.

Friday, Nov. 11

Kanne-Riemst, Belgium (B-3770) -- This Friday event is south of Maastricht, Netherlands, and about a 90-minute drive from Bitburg. An overnight stay in nearby Maastricht is something to consider with this event. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B51 north to pick up Autobahn 60 to the border. After crossing into Belgium, continue on A27/E42 to Herve, then connect with A3/E42/E40 toward Bruxelles. At the Cheratte

interchange, take the exit onto A25/E25 toward Maastricht/Visé. Exit at Lixhe (1) to use N602, N671 and N619 to Kanne. Start: Zaal C.O.C. Onder de kerk on Brugstraat Friday: 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (4, 8, 12, 16 and 21 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Weekend of Nov. 12-13

Boofzheim, France (F-67860) -- This event is south of Strasbourg and due west of the former Canadian airbase at , Germany. It’s way too far (easily 2.5 hours from Ramstein) but some of KMC’s volksmarchers will make a day out of it with visits to Strasbourg, Lahr, Baden-Baden, Bad Dürkheim, etc. From the KMC, use A6 toward Mannheim, A61 south toward Karlsruhe, and A65 toward Landau. Exit at Kandel-Süd (22) to follow B9 to the border and connect French Autoroute A35 toward Strasbourg. You’ll merge onto A4 briefly but continue southbound on A35 to use exit 6 toward Offenburg/Illkirch-Graffenstaden. Follow secondary roads past , , , and to reach the start at Boofzheim. Start: Salle des fêtes Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (10 and 20 km) Trail: Fields and woods Award: None.

Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 24

Ramstein-Miesenbach (66877) -- The Ramstein Roadrunners club plays host to their annual Thanksgiving Day volksmarch. Wanderers will find the event to be a friendly and relaxing family activity. Ask about becoming a club member -- information is available at the start hall. Consider making reservations at 06371-472824 to enjoy the amazing Thanksgiving buffet at the Officers' Club on Ramstein Air Base. Spend a night or two in guest lodging -- contact Central Reservations at 06371-454920 to find out if Space-A rooms are available. From Wiesbaden, use Autobahns 643, 60, 63 and 6 and the Landstuhl/Air Base exit (13), then follow IVV signs to reach the town of Ramstein-Miesenbach. From Bitburg, use B51 south to Neuhaus to connect with Autobahn 64 toward Trier, then continue using Autobahns 1 and 62 south toward Kaiserslautern and Pirmasens. Exit at Hütchenhausen (9) to follow signs to the start at Ramstein-Miesenbach. From the KMC, well, drive over to Miesenbach and look for parking. Start: Mehrzweckhalle at Am Kiefernkopf 22 Thursday: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (5 and 10 km) Trail: Slightly hilly, fields and forests Award: Beer glass.

Weekend of Nov. 26-27

Brouennes, France (F-55700) -- This Sunday event is west of Montmédy and west-southwest of Arlon. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Bitburg. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B51 south to Neuhaus and Autobahn 64 to the border. After crossing into Luxembourg, continue on Autoroutes A1 and A6 to drive around Luxembourg City to the south and west. Continue on A6 to the Belgian border, and then on the A4/E25 to the Habay exit (29). Take N87 through Etalle and Rouvrov, then continue to the French border. Once across the border, continue on D981 to Montmédy, then D947 and D209 to the start at Brouennes.

Start: Salle des Fêtes Sunday: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (7 and 10 km) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (15 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None Note: Actual start times are not confirmed.

Ketsch (68775) -- This Sunday event is roughly midway between Speyer and -- both cities worth a visit themselves -- and about an hour’s drive from Wiesbaden as well as the KMC. From Kaiserslautern, use Autobahns 6 toward Mannheim, 61 towards Karlsruhe, and exit at Hockenheim (64) toward Ketsch. Take minor roads to the start at Ketsch. From Wiesbaden, take Mainzer Straße to Autobahn 671, 60, and 67 toward Darmstadt. Continue on A6 south toward , then exit at Mannheim/Schwetzingen (28) in the direction of Mannheim-Rheinau. Connect with B-36 and exit toward Ketsch to use secondary roads to the start. Start: Rheinhalle on Im Bruch Sunday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (6 and 10 km) Trail: Unknown Award: None.

Weekend of Dec. 10-11

Metz, France (F-57050) -- Although cancelled last year in the wake of the attacks, this hugely-popular Saturday-only evening walk is back and once again offers a tour of this historic city with many of its monuments and buildings illuminated. Wanderers will find the trail passes through a Christmas market. Go early to avoid crowds or later to enjoy the lights; dress warmly regardless. This event is well worth the time to reach it. West of Saarbrücken, this walk is easily reached via autobahn. From Wiesbaden, use Autobahns 643, 60, and 63 to Kaiserslautern, then connect with A6 toward Saarbrücken. Cross into France and continue on A4/E50 toward Metz. Once near Metz, follow signs toward Stade Saint-Symphorien and watch carefully for Metz Illuminée directional signs. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 toward Saarbrücken; cross the border into France and continue toward Metz using A4/E50. As you approach Metz, follow signs toward Stade Saint-Symphorien and the Metz Illuminée directional signs. Start: Complexe Sportif on Boulevard Saint Symphorien Saturday: 2-7 p.m. (10 km) Trail: Flat, city streets Award: None Notes: The highway between Germany's border and Metz is a toll road with automated collection stations. A German Esso station is located at a rest stop on the eastbound side (direction Kaiserslautern/Mannheim) of A6 near Homburg/Saar (just past exit 9).

Wednesday, Dec. 14

Neerharen-Lanaken, Belgium (B-3620) -- This event is just north of Maastricht, Netherlands, and near the Dutch-Belgian border. Volksmarchers from Bitburg should reach the walk in about 1 hour 45 minutes. Consider an overnight stay to further explore the area or nearby Maastricht. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B51 north to pick up Autobahn 60 to the border. After crossing into Belgium, continue on A27/E42 to Battice, then connect with A3/E42 toward Bruxelles. At the Cheratte interchange, pick up A25/E25 toward Maastricht and cross into the Netherlands, continuing on A2/E25 then N2 at Wyck. At Wyckerpoort, turn onto Viadectweg and Noorderbrug to cross the Meuse River, then exit onto Bosscherweg to travel north to the Belgian border. Continue on N766 and N78 to Neerharen.

Start: OC Neerharen on Kasteelstraat Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (5, 8, 12 and 18 km) Trail: Unknown Award: Unknown.

Weekend of Dec. 17-18

Luxembourg-Limpertsberg, Luxembourg (L-1750) -- A few years ago, this event was recommended by volksmarching enthusiast Kay Garsnett who especially enjoyed “…December volksmarches that combine St. Nick or Christmas celebrations.” This writer has also participated in the event and can second Kay’s thoughts. This Saturday-only walk has its trails passing by the town’s Christmas market. It’s a long drive from the KMC (about 90 minutes) but, if you’ve got the time and the weather is , it should be a worthwhile trip. From the KMC, use Autobahn 6 toward Saarbrücken. At Kreuz Neunkirchen connect with A8 toward Luxembourg and continue across the border where it becomes A13. At the Croix de Bettembourg interchange, take A3 toward Luxembourg. Just past the Croix de Gasperich, the autobahn ends at a roundabout; take the second exit onto B3. Use N3, N50, N57, Boulevard Royal, N52, Avenue Victor Hugo, Square Edouard Andre and Rue Jean-Baptiste Fresez. Watch for IVV signs leading to the start at Limpertsberg. From Bitburg, expect slightly less than an hour’s drive. Take B257 south to Echternacherbrück and the border. Cross the Sûre River into Luxembourg and continue toward Luxembourg City using E29 and E421. Once in Luxembourg City, follow IVV signs to Limpertsberg. Start: Hall Victor Hugo at 60, Avenue Victor Hugo Saturday: Noon to 5 p.m. (6 and 12 km) Trail: Hilly in places, passing by the Christmas Market Award: None.

Wednesday, Dec. 28

Allendorf (56370) -- Expect a pretty walk in the Naturpark Rhein-Taunus northwest of Wiesbaden on this end-of-2016 midweek walk. From Wiesbaden, use Autobahns 66 toward Frankfurt and 3 toward Limburg, exit at Bad Camberg (44) and follow a secondary road to Beuerbach, Ketternschwalbach and Panrod. Change roads to head toward and Zollhaus and connect with B274 to reach the start. Start: Dorfgemeinschaftshaus at Hauptstraße 67 Wednesday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (5 and 10 km) and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (15 km) Trail: Fairly hilly, fields and woods Award: From previous events.

Weekend of Dec. 31-Jan. 1

Tongeren, Belgium (B-3700) -- This event is north of Liège and about a 95- minute drive from Bitburg. Give some thought to visiting Tongeren on a weekend other than New Years to explore the widely-known Sunday antique and flea markets (http://www.tongeren.be/toerisme/tourism_tongeren/antiques_market) as well as to explore the area. From Bitburg and Spangdahlem, use B51 north to pick up Autobahn 60 to the border. After crossing into Belgium, continue on A27/E42 to Battice, then connect with A3/E42/E40 toward Bruxelles. Continue on A3/E42 to the Vottem exit (6), then north on A13/E313 to Tongeren.

Start: VIIO Humaniora College at Sint-Truidersteenweg 17 Saturday: 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (4, 8, 12, 16 and 21 km) Trail: Unknown Award: Unknown.

Questions? Send email to [email protected].