The RuhrtalRadweg runs from Winterberg in the Sauerland to Duisburg. Its official length is 240 kilometres, and the regional tourism guide suggests three to five days for the full ride. The river valley brings woodland, reservoirs and traces of the Ruhr region’s industrial past into one journey.
Do not expect a uniformly flat profile. Climbs are concentrated in the first 35 kilometres; the route is largely level thereafter. Most riding is on asphalt, with some compacted aggregate surfaces. Much of the route is free of motor traffic, while smaller sections use agricultural roads and quiet urban streets.
Leave room for stops: Arnsberg’s old town, the Henrichshütte industrial heritage site in Hattingen and Essen’s Baldeneysee lake offer quite different experiences. Choose daily distances around what you want to explore as well as how far you want to ride.
Construction matters in October 2026. Near Winterberg, a diversion uses the busy B480; the route operator recommends starting in Olsberg during the works if you want to avoid it. Duisburg’s temporary finish is at the Buckelbrücke in the inner harbour.
Before departure, compare the downloaded route with current closure notices: temporary diversions may not appear in the GPX file. Check rail services too, and follow the signs on the ground.