The Battle of Hürtgen Forest (German: Hürtgenwald) was a crucial battle during World War II. The battle was fought from September 1944 to February 1945 between American and German forces in the Hürtgen Forest near the German-Belgian border. It became the longest single battle the U.S. Army has ever fought. Despite the challenging dense wooded terrain and poor weather conditions, American troops attempted to breach the German defences to ultimately reach the Rhine. The battle was characterized by heavy casualties, with little strategic gain. Harsh conditions and strong German resistance resulted in over 33,000 American casualties.

The Kall Trail (German: Kallweg) played a critical role during the battle as a vital supply route for American forces. This trail runs from Vossenack, over de river Kall, to Schmidt. The narrow path, situated within the rugged and densely forested terrain of the Hürtgen Forest, was essential for transporting troops, ammunition, and essential supplies to the front lines. The trail was not suited to tanks. Nevertheless, the Americans advanced with tanks along the narrow path, with several vehicles falling into the ravine or lost to German fire. The hazardous conditions of the trail, combined with the constant threat of enemy attacks, led to heavy American casualties. The logistical challenges and high losses incurred along the Kall Trail exemplified the overall difficulties of the battle.