The Harzquerbahn is a narrow gauge railway which links the small towns and villages around Wernigerode and the Harz Mountains. It is a popular tourist attraction, allowing people to explore the region in a scenic manner. Stations on the route include Gernrode, Nordhausen Nord and Quedlinburg. The railway is historic, having existed since 1898 and formerly operating mainline services. Today the trains are timed to be most useful to visitors, and meander through hills and forests.