Winding canyons in the middle of the Black Forest — the Schluchtensteig

Winding paths, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls await you on the Gorge Trail in the south of Germany’s Black Forest. Over six stages, you will explore rocky canyons and hike to scenic heights that will whisk you away from the stresses of everyday life. After a long day of hiking, you can rest in scenic villages and peaceful towns or in one of the adventurous trekking camps and bases. Experience the Black Forest at its most idyllic.


The 74-mile (119-km) Gorge Trail runs through the southern Black Forest from the town of Stühlingen to Wehr. Along with the beautiful nature in this protected forest, you will also visit many cultural highlights. On the first stage, you follow the well-known tracks of the Sauschwaenzlebahn steam engine training. Stage 2 takes you between steep rock faces and through the jungle-like Wutach Gorge before stopping for the night in a traditional mill. On stage 3, you hike along a wonderful river valley, following the water through the Haslach Gorge. Your fourth day takes you up to 3,720 feet (1,134 m) as you climb the Bildstein, enjoying spectacular views from the top. You follow the River Wehra on stage 5 and finally, stage 6 takes you to the glistening Wehra Reservoir before arriving at the finish line in the town of Wehr.

You can reach the starting point in Stühlingen with bus 7338 from Waldesruh train station. There is also a large bus station in Wehr. Sure-footedness and a head for heights are required, especially on the first three stages through the Wutach Gorge. Each stage destination has a good range of accommodation, but it is a good idea to book in advance. If you don’t want to hike the entire trail in one go, you can just hike a part of it. The towns are well-connected by buses. For bus timetables, visit: wtv-online.de/fahrplaene/nach-linie.

Do you want to hike completely carefree? Then use the luggage service and have your suitcase (20 kilograms per person, additional luggage can be booked) brought to your respective stage destinations. While you are enjoying the beauty of the southern Black Forest, your suitcase will be brought to your accommodation by 6 p.m. at the latest. Would you like it to be even more comfortable? Then you can book the comfort trip: You can expect seven nights including breakfast in hiking-friendly upscale accommodations, luggage service and, if you wish, a packed lunch for your hiking days. So you really don't have to worry about anything anymore. Would you like to complete the Schluchtensteig with your dog? That is also no problem. There is a special offer that is tailored to the needs of hikers and their four-legged friends.



Hiking trails of more than 3,700 kilometers! The Top Trails are characteristic, unique and fascinating. And with all their similarities, yet all different. Each of the 12 trails has its own exciting story, each has its own special character. No one is like the other. No matter which path you choose, you will find your adventure! Take a look at our Collections: komoot.de/user/toptrailsofgermany/collections