The Kanonenbahn was originally built in the late 19th century as a strategic railway line to facilitate rapid military troop movements.
The route includes the 244-meter-long Lengenfeld viaduct, one of the most prominent stone arch bridges in the region.
The trackbed runs through a series of tunnels that were carved through the karst landscape, offering cooler temperatures even during summer months.
Draisines used on the track are primarily four-person rail cycles that operate on manual pedal power.
The line connects the state of Thuringia with the border region of Hesse, showcasing distinct regional geological features.
The railway infrastructure was officially decommissioned for regular train traffic before being repurposed for tourism in the early 2000s.
Erlebnis Draisine offers a rail-cycling experience along the decommissioned Kanonenbahn railway line in the Eichsfeld region of Thuringia. Visitors pedal custom-built handcars across a 19-kilometer stretch of track spanning the border between Thuringia and Hesse. The route features the notable Lengenfelder Viaduct, a 244-meter-long arched masonry bridge. The tracks pass through several tunnels and historic railway cuttings characteristic of the former strategic military rail line. Operation is strictly seasonal, utilizing pedal-powered draisines that require physical effort from participants. The base station is located at the heritage-listed Lengenfeld unterm Stein railway station. The route integrates industrial history with the rural landscape of the Naturpark Eichsfeld-Hainich-Werratal.
The center of the Lengenfeld viaduct provides an unobstructed view of the valley below.
Bring a windproof jacket as the tunnels can be significantly cooler than the ambient outdoor temperature.
Check the track status for potential construction or maintenance closures before traveling to the station.
Reserve your draisine well in advance, especially for weekends and public holidays, as capacity is limited.
Do not attempt to pedal without checking the specific track direction rules, as some sections are one-way only during peak times.
Operates seasonally from spring through late autumn; closed during winter months.
Closed-toe shoes are recommended for pedaling safety; participants must be capable of physical activity.
