Mehholz Gypsum Trail
Saint-Gobain Formula Opens a new hiking trail "Mehholz Gypsum Trail" : a place for citizens and tourists to "Relax – Experience – Discover"
In early September, Saint-Gobain Formula opened the new "Mehholz Gypsum Trail," welcoming nature lovers to explore its scenic beauty. The trail begins directly behind the administration building at the Kutzhütte in Walkenried. Winding through the Mehholz area, it connects to the renowned Karstwanderweg, making it an integral part of the Mehholz quarry’s development concept. The trail offers visitors a chance to experience both the gypsum extraction sites and the extensively recultivated areas.
The motto of the trail
Under the motto “Relax – Experience – Discover,” the "Mehholz Gypsum Trail" is designed to provide a unique connection to nature through information boards and a dedicated app. “Relax” encourages visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. “Experience” invites hikers to actively explore the area and embrace the joy of wandering.
“Discover” inspires exploration of new places and admiration for the remarkable diversity of the natural world. The trail blends education with adventure, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Mehholz area in the southern Harz Zechstein-belt
The Mehholz area lies within the natural region of the "Südharzer Zechstein-Belt," which stretches from Osterode to Sangerhausen in Saxony-Anhalt. This region is defined by its unique geological features: the water-soluble nature of gypsum, combined with the effects of flowing water, rainfall, and leaching processes, has shaped a distinctive landscape of caves, sinkholes, and karst formations over time.
Human activity has also significantly influenced the area over the centuries. Today, the landscape around Walkenried is a blend of meadows, ponds, forests, and traditional quarries, where gypsum has been mined since the Middle Ages.
An historic quarry
Gypsum has been mined in the Mehholz area for over 90 years, and the nearby “Kutzhütte” gypsum plant has existed since 1893. Today's Saint-Gobain Formula GmbH continues this long tradition and produces special gypsum for various applications, from dental technology to the construction industry and art. The raw materials for these products continue to be extracted from the surrounding quarries, including the Mehholz quarry.
Nature-Led Development Amid Change
Traditionally, former quarries were often slated for afforestation. However, Saint-Gobain Formula has increasingly prioritized a more nature-led and sustainable approach. In collaboration with nature conservation authorities, the reclamation plan for the Mehholz quarry was revised to foster the development of valuable semi-dry grasslands and mixed woodlands instead of large-scale afforestation.
This natural approach encourages the formation of diverse habitats, providing refuge for rare animal and plant species while contributing to ecological balance and biodiversity.
A Hiking Trail for the Community
The new "Gipspfad Mehholz" invites both residents of Walkenried and tourists to explore the unique landscape of Mehholz. Seamlessly integrated into the existing network of hiking trails, it provides natural and sustainable access to recultivated quarries and areas rich in biodiversity. The trail's design emphasizes sustainability, utilizing materials sourced from the surrounding area. Plans are in place for its ongoing development in the coming years.
Saint-Gobain Formula encourages visitors to share their feedback and suggestions to help enhance the hiking experience.
You can find more information at www.gipspfad.de or in the specially conceived app.