A hiker in the southwestern German state of Saarland was seriously injured when he was trampled by several cows, local police authorities reported late Friday.

The 67-year-old was out hiking with his dog near the village of Beckingen-Düppenweiler, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) northwest of Saarbrücken on Thursday, when he tried to cross a cattle pasture, Saarland police reports said.

He became caught between a herd of running cattle and was knocked to the ground, where the cows ran over him. 

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The hiker suffered severe injuries to his chest area and was taken by rescue helicopter to a nearby clinic.

The police said his condition has since improved. 

According to the report, the hiking trail on which the 67-year-old was walking cuts across the cattle pasture.

However, a warning sign has been placed there, pointing out the dangers of cows and urging hikers to avoid the pasture if there are animals on it.