Action at the Rappbode Dam

DAM • HIKING • SUSPENSION BRIDGE • ZIP LINE • VIEW

The 106-meter-high and 415-meter-long Rappbode Dam is located at the entrance to the Bode Valley and has protected it from flooding for over 50 years. It is the largest dam in Germany, holding almost 110 million cubic meters of water. It is part of a complex dam system dating from the 1950s, which, in addition to flood control, also serves for drinking water storage and power generation. For this purpose, the Rappbode and Hassel rivers, as well as numerous smaller tributaries, are dammed.

Although there isn't a circular trail around the entire reservoir, the surrounding area offers an extremely attractive and diverse hiking experience. A paid parking lot is located behind the Nickelsberg tunnel, right next to the dam.

Side view into the valley at the Rappbode Dam in the Harz Mountains

Reservoir at the Rappbode Dam in the Harz Mountains

Direct view of the dam of the Rappbode Dam in the Harz Mountains

A special highlight at the Rappbode Dam are the suspension bridge and the action adventures of Harzdrenalin :

“Titan-RT” – cross Germany’s longest suspension bridge!

Right next to the Rappbode Dam, you can cross the 458,5-meter-long "Titan-RT" bridge by Harzdrenalin, 100 meters above the Bode reservoir, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Harz mountain peaks. Crossing the bridge requires a little courage, but is completely safe.

For those who prefer something a bit more daring, the "GigaSwing" offers a thrilling plunge directly below the Titan-RT, Europe's most spectacular pendulum jump with a 70-meter free fall. Tandem jumps for two people are also available.

Tickets can be obtained either at the visitor center in the "Rappbodetalsperre" parking lot or at the ticket machine — directly at the bridge portals on both sides.

Megazipline – a flying experience spanning 1.000 meters

120 meters above the abyss of the Rappbode Dam, Europe's largest double zip line awaits you!

Another superlative at the Rappbode Dam in the Harz Mountains is Europe's largest double zip line, operated by Harzdrenalin . Here, after prior arrangement, you can zip upside down along a 1.000-meter-long steel cable to the other side of the dam. A helmet camera can record the experience upon request, so that even the most reluctant participants in your travel group can share in the adventure afterward.

Suspension bridge at the Rappbode Dam in the Harz Mountains

Woman on the suspension bridge at the Rappbode Dam in the Harz Mountains

Person hanging from the negazipline at the Rappbode Dam in the Harz Mountains

Two people on the zipline down into the valley at the Rappbode Dam in the Harz Mountains

"Solitaire" observation tower

Above the Rappbode Dam, the "Solitair" tower rises 39 meters above the surrounding landscape. Completed in spring 2022, this steel lattice structure offers panoramic views across the eastern Harz Mountains and the Harz foothills. Secured by 16-meter-deep pile foundations, the slender structure is encased on all sides in architectural textile fabric. The tower can be reached via 160 steps or a panoramic glass elevator. The viewing platform, constructed of grating, features two glass windows providing a premium view of the Rappbode Valley, including the dam and suspension bridge.

Wallrunning – vertically down the wall

Secured in a special harness, you can "walk" down the "Solitair" observation tower, face down, at your own pace – either alone or with a partner. It takes a bit of courage, but it gives you an adrenaline rush you won't soon forget! Once you reach the bottom, you can look back up to the starting point and be justifiably proud of yourself. As proof, you can have yourself filmed here or capture the incredible perspectives of your descent with an action camera mounted on your helmet.

Ultrashot – a catapult unique worldwide

In the middle of the "Solitair" observation tower is the 38-meter-high catapult, a globally unique leisure experience for the truly daring!

Wearing special equipment, you will be clipped onto a backplate in the machine, then the starting signal will sound and you will be shot several meters into the air, experiencing an acceleration of 15 meters per second and 3 seconds of weightlessness.

Tandem shooting is also possible. With a GoPro action camera available for rent, you can even record your experience.

Observation tower at the Rappbode Dam in the Harz Mountains

Person at the start of the wallrunning event at the Rappbode Dam in the Harz Mountains

Two people wallrunning at the Rappbode Dam in the Harz Mountains

Person in a catapult at the Rappbode Dam in the Harz Mountains

5D cinema – the ultimate fun for the whole family!

In the 5D cinema, you'll embark on a breathtaking adventure with the eccentric Professor Fallwasser. Shrunk to the size of a water droplet, you unexpectedly find yourself on an expedition unlike any other. Along the way, you'll discover exciting and informative facts about the Rappbode Valley. The 5D cinema is wheelchair accessible.

Playground and picnic areas

At the playground, young visitors can experience the events in miniature. Designated relaxation areas with picnic spots offer time to unwind. Coffee specialties and waffles are available on site, so refreshments are also provided.

Further information is available here