German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier hikes in Erzgebirge to promote volunteer trail work

German President Frank‑Walter Steinmeier joined the president of the Sauerländischer Gebirgsverein, Thomas Gemke, and the head of the Deutscher Wanderverband, Dr. Michael Ermrich, for a hike in the Erzgebirge. The roughly ten‑kilometre walk ran from the Auersberg to the Sosa reservoir and served as a symbolic kickoff for the upcoming German Hiking Day, scheduled for 24‑27 September 2026 in Oberwiesenthal.

During the trek Steinmeier praised the volunteer efforts that keep trails marked, maintained and safe, underscoring the social cohesion and regional tourism benefits that organized walking clubs provide. While no new funding commitments were announced, the event highlighted the importance of volunteer organisations in rural areas and their role in preserving natural and cultural landscapes.