Het Voetstappenpad

Walk the iconic Voetstappenpad: 26 km through heathland, forest, and estates around Hilversum. One of the oldest walking routes in the Netherlands.

Walk a classic route around Hilversum

The Voetstappenpad is one of the oldest marked hiking trails in the Netherlands. Since 1938, the iconic concrete posts with a white footprint have guided hikers through the beautiful landscape around Hilversum. The route is 26 kilometers long and runs through the Gooi Nature Reserve . In 2025, the Voetstappenpad was renewed and expanded with three alternative sections, recognizable by the yellow footprints on the posts.

The route

You start at Hilversum Mediapark Station and walk clockwise through a varied landscape. You pass vast heathlands, old forests, historic estates, and peaceful meadows. Part of the trail follows unpaved paths through nature. You walk along grazed heathland where you will encounter cattle, and through quiet forests where you will hear birds singing. Along the way, you will pass several terraces where you can rest. Be sure to bring some snacks for the road as well.

The route has no fixed starting point. You can join at various locations. You do not have to walk the 26 kilometers in one go — split the route up or choose one of the alternative, shorter sections. Do you want to know everything about the landscape along the way? Then order the official Voetstappenpad hiking guide .

Highlights along the way

1. Westerheide – A beautiful heathland with grazing cattle and traces from prehistory. Archaeologically valuable area.
2. Hoorneboegse Heide – Approximately 190 hectares of nature reserve south of Hilversum, managed by the Goois Natuurreservaat. Quiet and vast.
3. Corversbos – Young forest on the edge of the Gooi moraine, with old fields. Once part of the Gooilust estate.
4. Spanderswoud – A historic country estate in 's-Graveland with a rich estate history and beautiful old coppice.
5. Hilversum Wasmeer – A picturesque lake along the route, ideal for a short rest and enjoying the view.

Background

The Voetstappenpad has existed since 1938, making it one of the longest-running walking routes in the Netherlands. The route runs through the Gooi Nature Reserve, a unique piece of nature sandwiched between cities such as Hilversum, Bussum, and 's-Graveland. The landscape was shaped by the Gooi glacial ridge: a hilly area with sandy soils, heathland, and forests. The reserve is actively managed, including through grazing by cattle and sheep.

Tips and practical information

1. Distance: 26 km (loop)
2. Duration: approx. 6.5 hours (in one go)
3. Starting point: Hilversum Mediapark Station, Noorderweg 229, 1222 PJ Hilversum
4. Signage: Concrete posts with white footprints (original route) and yellow footprints (alternative routes). Walk clockwise for the best marking.
5. By public transport: Board at Hilversum Mediapark Station, Hilversum Station, Bussum-Zuid Station, or Hollandse Rading Station – all boarding points along the route.
6. Parking: Various parking areas around the nature reserves in the Gooi.
7. Dogs: Welcome, but keep them on a leash in the nature reserve.
8. Please note: Partially unpaved path — wear sturdy walking shoes.
9. Season: Beautiful all year round. In autumn, the landscape turns gold; in August, the heather blooms purple.
10. Walking guide: Order the official Voetstappenpad guide .

The Voetstappenpad leads you through the heart of the Gooi Nature Reserve, past heathland, forest, and historic estates.