Okertal Gorge & Okertalsperre Dam
The Oker River has carved one of the Harz's most dramatic valleys just south of Altenau, where forested cliffs plunge into an emerald reservoir held back by the grand Okertalsperre dam. Walking the gorge path feels like stepping into a fairy-tale wilderness, with waterfalls threading through granite boulders at every bend.
The Dam & Reservoir
Built between 1952 and 1956, the Okertalsperre is one of Lower Saxony's largest drinking-water reservoirs, stretching nearly 3 km through the valley. Standing on the 57-metre-high dam wall you get a sweeping panorama of dark spruce ridges reflected in perfectly still water — bring a camera at golden hour.
Boat hire is available at the southern shore in summer, letting you paddle silently beneath the overhanging cliffs and spot grey herons fishing in the shallows.
Gorge Trail to Romkerhalle
The marked footpath along the eastern bank of the Oker leads 5 km downstream to the Romkerhalle waterfall, one of the tallest artificially enhanced falls in the Harz at around 20 metres. The route is well-signed from Altenau's town centre and gains very little elevation, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
In autumn the beeches and rowans turn the gorge walls copper and gold, and the path is far less crowded than the popular Bode Gorge near Thale — you may have entire stretches entirely to yourself.
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