Since 1992 trains have been once again been running
along the Mount Brocken; at 1142 metres, this mountain which is steeped in
legend is the highest peak in northern Germany. This is hard work for the 700
h.p. steam locomotives, which have to travel purely by adhesion, without the
benefit of gears or any similar equipment.
Mount Brocken Railway Station, which stands at 1125
m above sea level, is the highest train station on any narrow-gauge railway
network in Germany, which makes it an absolute must for all visitors to the
Harz mountains and railway enthusiasts alike. Trains travel there regularly
from Nordhausen and Wernigerode. However, you can also get on at all of the
other stations and stops along the way.
The Mount
Brocken Railway takes about 50 minutes to climb the steepest part of the line
from the Drei-Annen-Hohne Railway Station, offering visitors an overwhelming
panoramic view of the Upper Harz National Park. Upper Harz is heavily blanketed
in snow in the winter months and makes for an exciting trip by rail then as
well. Visitors can sit back and enjoy the sight of the heavily snow-covered
forests of fir trees and snowbound highlands; on a clear day, Mount Brocken
provides a fantastic view over the white countryside below.
