Path of encounter
Path of Encounter
The newly designed trail in Brunstal encourages visitors to experience the forest "on equal footing": through the senses, emotionally, artistically, and intellectually.
Visitors with and without disabilities are invited to set out on the trail, open themselves up, silence all thoughts of daily life, the past, and the future, and linger at the 21 different stations.
The trail is also designed as an "audio walk." This means that visitors can easily have the text on the information boards read aloud using their own smartphones.
How does it work?
Simply scan the QR code at the trailhead—the Weberstedt hiking parking lot—with your smartphone, or try it right here.
The Path of Encounter is one of a total of four "Thuringian Primeval Forest Trails" in Hainich National Park, a project of WWF Germany. Throughout Thuringia, selected hiking trails are awarded this designation. The goal of the Thuringian Primeval Forest Trails is to promote acceptance and ecological understanding of forests not used for forestry through direct experience. The creation of the Thuringian Primeval Forest Trails is also intended to support environmentally sustainable regional development and generate additional value creation in tourism.
Come join us on the Path of Encounter ...
What does that mean?
Only in encounter, only in the presence of another does a person find themselves, does he or she participate in life. Being human only works as being with others; being a being only works as being with other beings. That is why the philosopher Martin Buber says: “All real life is encounter.” Buber does not mean only the encounter between human and human, but also that between human and animal, human and plant—and even that between human and objects. And by this he means an encounter of equals, an encounter on equal terms.
On the path to this encounter, there are many stumbling blocks; entrenched perspectives hinder progress. The stations along the path aim to draw attention to some of these obstacles while also serving as potential “climbing aids” to help overcome ingrained barriers.
Each station has its own theme, opens up a specific space, and serves as an encouragement to engage with the path through your own experiences.
What you have experienced yourself, what you have reflected on yourself, is what you can best convey. “Do not fear your own depth,” as the Well station might call out to you.
Each station aims to speak to you with its own unique meaning. Here is a brief glimpse:
Entrance area – embracing the new and the unknown.
Hourglass – taking time, allowing oneself to surrender to a different rhythm.
Inhabitants of the forest—pay attention to them, don’t ignore them, acknowledge them and take them seriously.
At eye level with the forest floor—changing your perspective, seeing things from a different angle.
The artistic gaze—adapting to the perspectives and viewpoints entrusted to it.
Palisade – don't let setbacks and turmoil deter you...
... because, on closer inspection ...
... you realize that it is possible to get through.
Tree Roots - Building a fruitful network with the whole. Connecting and being connected, being in relationship.
Look up to the heavens—be humble, not self-satisfied; pride prevents us from seeing eye to eye, and arrogance undermines genuine connection. Accept the limitations of your own perspective.
When you're lost—don't get carried away and be able to turn back.
Three hiking trails follow this path through a former orchard meadow.
At the well—do not shy away from the depths, neither within yourself nor in others.
Farewell—it’s time to say goodbye and get back to everyday life.
Accessibility Information
- The "Fuchsfarm" hiking parking lot has three designated accessible parking spaces.
- For blind and visually impaired visitors, the text on the information signs at each station is not readable but can be heard. Using a smartphone and the QR code at the hiking parking lot, the sign texts can be downloaded as audio files and played aloud on site. The texts can also be downloaded here.
- An accessible restroom (dry-separation toilet) is located at the first fork in the trail.
- An accessible picnic area (wheelchair-accessible) is located at the second fork in the trail.
- The "Am Verhau" station, with its side path, is not suitable for wheelchair users.