Hiking along bodies of water is a particularly enjoyable experience. In this project, the Naturefriends association North Rhine-Westphalia creates different experiences all related to water. They develop and signpost hiking and cycling trails that run along bodies of water, and they generate enthusiasm about water-related issues by means of brochures, info boards, an interactive app, geocaches, guided walks and other activities.

In August 2018, the first Water:Trail was inaugurated along the two lakes Elbsee and Unterbacher See in Düsseldorf. Several other Water:Trails have since ensued, among them the trails along Blausteinsee lake near Aachen, Wurm/Worm river and Lippe river, which was awarded Riverscape of the Years 2018/2019 by Naturefriends.

The aim of the project is to raise awareness for our water ecosystems as well as to contribute to the implementation of the European Water Framework Directive.