Between 1942 and 1945, Allied Forces led 53 bombing raids on Stuttgart, which was one of the industrial centers in Germany. Following the end of World War II, the Allied Forces took control of Stuttgart and began the rebuilding of the city, of which almost 68% had been destroyed. Much of the rubble from the destroyed building was brought to this location and an artificial mountain was created. Ultimately, this location has become a great hiking and biking location, a wonderful overlook of the rebuilt city of Stuttgart, and a place of reflection on the consequences of war.

Located a short 10 minute drive from the city center, there is a reasonably large parking lot just off the start of the trail (at the intersection of Rotenwaldstrasse and Geisseichstrasse). Once parked, cross Geisseichstrasse at the light and climb the small stone staircase and begin your hike. A nearby wooden sign (posted to a tree) directs visitors to "Birkenkopf" and takes you along a 1/2mile paved walkway. Gradually ascending, eventually you will see the top of the pile of rubble that caps the mountain. Large stone and concrete pieces, many with relief carving testify to their age. A large cross looks down upon the bowl city of Stuttgart and offers hope for the future. Views from other vantage points look out upon the wooded countryside surrounding Stuttgart.

A visit to Birkenkopf or Rubble Hill will take only a short time, but it offers memorable views, a little exercise, and a point of perspective and reflection.