10 amazing hiking trails in the Black Forest

10 amazing hiking trails in the Black Forest

April 11, 2025

The Black Forest, also known as the Black Forest, is a picturesque region in southwestern Germany that has been enchanting tourists with its beauty and mystery for centuries. It's a place where nature has created breathtaking landscapes and man has incorporated charming hiking trails. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through 10 of the most unusual trails that will make your family trip an unforgettable experience. From wild paths through dense forests to scenic trails overlooking alpine peaks, each of these trails has something unique about it. Get ready for an adventure that combines active recreation with discovering the secrets of nature and history of this fascinating region. Whether you are an experienced hiker or just beginning your adventure with mountain hiking, you will find a trail in the Black Forest that is perfectly suited to your abilities and expectations. We invite you to discover the magic of the Black Forest!

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Wild trails and natural wonders of the Black Forest

Start our hike with the 'Wildnispfad', or Wilderness Path, which is located in the heart of the Black Forest. This trail of about 3 km is a real gem for nature lovers. The trail leads through a natural forest, where you can admire old trees and rich flora. Although the trail is not particularly demanding, it offers an unforgettable experience, especially in the morning hours, when the forest awakens to life. Families with children will appreciate the opportunity to explore the natural environment, climbing fallen trees and discovering a variety of mushroom species. Note, however, that the trail is not suitable for baby strollers, and sturdy shoes are a must.

Another fascinating trail is 'Lotharpfad,' named after Hurricane Lothar, which ravaged the area in 1999. This nature trail, about 800 meters long, shows how nature recovers after a cataclysmic event. Wooden footbridges lead you through the area, where you can observe the process of the forest's rebirth. This is an excellent lesson in ecology for the whole family. The trail is easy to walk, and at the end, an observation tower awaits, offering panoramic views of the area.

Not to be missed is the Black Forest National Park, which offers many trails of varying difficulty. This is a place where you can experience true peace and quiet, listening to the sound of trees and forest streams. The park is famous for its beautiful views, especially along the Schwarzwaldhochstraße. It is an ideal place for family picnics and longer hikes.

The 'Zweitaelersteig', on the other hand, is for more persistent hikers. This 108-kilometer trail offers stunning views of the Rhine Valley and the Black Forest. The trail is divided into stages, allowing you to adjust the length of the hike to your own ability. Although the trail is challenging, the reward is amazing scenery and the opportunity to see the diverse ecosystems of the Black Forest.

For those looking for a shorter, but equally fascinating route, we recommend the 'Teufelskanzelsteig'. This trail, also known as the Devil's Pulpit Path, leads through picturesque rock formations and offers panoramic views of the valley. The trail is quite steep and rocky, so it requires good footwear and some stamina, but the views from the vantage point at the top fully reward the effort.

Picturesque valleys and water attractions

Another remarkable spot on the Black Forest map is the 'Rötelbachtal'. This charming valley impresses with its natural beauty and variety of landscapes. The trail through Rötelbachtal is a true feast for the senses - all around you can admire mossy rock formations and old, majestic trees. The sound of the flowing Rötelbach stream has a soothing effect on the nerves, creating the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and contemplation of nature. The trail is quite challenging, especially in some sections where the path becomes narrow and rocky. Therefore, sturdy footwear and good physical fitness are recommended. This is an ideal place for those who appreciate peace and quiet - the valley is relatively un-traveled, allowing a real break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Not to be missed is one of the Black Forest's most spectacular attractions - the 'Allerheiligen-Wasserfälle', or All Saints' Waterfalls. This cascading waterfall, consisting of seven steps, falls from a height of 83 meters, creating a breathtaking view. The trail along the waterfall is well groomed, with numerous viewing platforms and stairs, making it accessible to families with children. It's worth planning your visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of this magical place. There are also the ruins of a monastery nearby, which add historical context to the route.

For those who wish to combine hiking with admiring the beauty of the lakes, the 'Eingang Schluchseer Jägersteig' is an ideal choice. This route, starting at Schluchsee Lake, offers a variety of landscapes - from dense forests to open spaces with panoramic views. Particularly recommended is the Bildstein viewpoint, which offers a magnificent panorama of the lake and, in good weather, even the distant Alps. The trail is well marked and offers various route length options, allowing you to tailor the hike to your own abilities and preferences.

Families with children may find the 'Naturerlebnispfad' particularly attractive. This nature trail is a true educational adventure, where the youngest can learn the secrets of the forest in an interactive way. The route is full of interesting information stations that present knowledge about local flora and fauna in an entertaining way. Here children can explore, touch and experience nature with all their senses. The trail is relatively short and easy, making it ideal for families with young children.

Mühlenweg', or Mill Trail, is for those who are interested not only in nature, but also in the history of the region. The route leads through picturesque valleys where you can admire preserved water mills and learn about their history. A special attraction are the numerous schnapps fountains, which are an interesting reminder of the local tradition of alcohol distillation. The trail offers moderate hills and is accessible to most hikers, although sturdy footwear is recommended.

Comparison and practical tips

When comparing the trails presented, there are several aspects worth noting that will help you choose the perfect route for you and your family. 'Wildnispfad' and 'Lotharpfad' are short trails, ideal for trips of a few hours, and are especially recommended for families with children due to their educational nature. They are relatively easy, but require sturdy footwear. The 'Zweitaelersteig', on the other hand, is for more experienced hikers, offering a multi-day adventure and requiring good fitness.

In terms of views, the 'Teufelskanzelsteig' and the viewpoint at Schluchsee offer the most spectacular panoramas. However, they are more physically demanding than, for example, the 'Naturerlebnispfad', which is easy and accessible to all. 'Allerheiligen-Wasserfälle' is a must-see for nature lovers, offering unique views of the water cascades, but the route can be crowded in high season.

In terms of accessibility, 'Black Forest National Park' offers the most options for different age groups and skill levels. In contrast, 'Rötelbachtal' is for those who appreciate quiet and wilderness, but the route is more challenging.

Mühlenweg' stands out from other trails for its cultural aspect, combining nature with the region's history. It is a good choice for those interested not only in landscapes, but also in the heritage of the Black Forest.

Practical tips:

  1. the best time to hike is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is most favorable.
  1. Always check the weather forecast before setting out on a trail - conditions in the mountains can change quickly.
  2. Take enough water and snacks with you, especially for longer trails.
  3. Dress in layers and always have something rainproof with you.
  4. There is no phone coverage on most trails, so it's a good idea to have a paper map with you.
  5. Observe the rules of nature conservation - do not stray from the trails and do not leave trash behind. 7.For families with small children, we recommend choosing shorter trails, such as 'Lotharpfad' or 'Naturerlebnispfad'. 8.For more challenging trails, like 'Zweitaelersteig', it's a good idea to bring trekking poles.
  1. Remember sunscreen and headgear, even on cloudy days.
  2. Check the opening hours of attractions and food outlets along the route - some may be closed in the off-season.

Regardless of the chosen route, hiking in the Black Forest is a guarantee of unforgettable experiences and close contact with nature. Each of the described routes has its own unique character and offers something special. When choosing a trail, be guided by your own abilities and interests, and you will surely discover the magic of the Black Forest, which will remain in your memory for a long time.

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