The Black Forest - a name that makes hikers' hearts beat faster! With its dense forests, picturesque valleys and impressive viewpoints, this region is a true paradise for nature lovers. Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply planning a relaxed family outing, the Black Forest has something for everyone. In this article, we take you on a journey of discovery to the most beautiful hiking trails in the Black Forest and give you valuable tips for your next hiking adventure.
Table of contents
What different hiking trails are there to discover in the Black Forest?
What makes the Black Forest one of the most popular hiking regions in Germany
Where can I find the most beautiful gorges and waterfalls in the Black Forest?
What about hiking with children in the Black Forest?
What should I bear in mind for a successful hike in the Black Forest?
Summary
What different hiking trails are there to discover in the Black Forest?
The Black Forest is home to an impressive network of hiking trails that lead through some of Germany's most breathtaking landscapes. Probably the most famous of these is the legendary Westweg, one of Germany's oldest long-distance hiking trails. This 285-kilometre route starts in Pforzheim and takes you through the entire Black Forest all the way to Basel. The Westweg is divided into several stages and offers a perfect mix of challenging climbs and more relaxed passages.
Here is an overview of the main types of hiking trails in the Black Forest:
- Long-distance hiking trails: multi-day routes such as the Westweg, the Mittelweg and the Ostweg
- Circular hiking trails: Ideal for day trips, start and finish in the same place
- Themed trails: focus on history, culture or natural phenomena
- Premium and quality hiking trails: particularly natural and varied certified routes
Hiking trail | Region | Length | Level of difficulty | Special feature |
---|---|---|---|---|
West trail | Entire Black Forest | 285 km | medium-difficult | Oldest long-distance hiking trail, start in Pforzheim |
Schluchtensteig | Southern Black Forest | 119 km | difficult | Leads through six spectacular gorges |
Pleasure trail Himmelsglück | Central Black Forest | 12 km | easy-medium | Panoramic views, suitable for families |
Mill hiking trail | Simonswäldertal | 10 km | easy | Historic mills, cultural experience |
The numerous circular hiking trails in the Black Forest are ideal for day trippers. These tours take you back to the starting point after a few hours of hiking - perfect if you are traveling by car. Depending on your fitness level and preference, you can choose between easy hikes with little elevation gain or more challenging routes.
The themed trails in the Black Forest are particularly exciting. The focus here is not only on hiking, but also on experiencing history, culture or special natural phenomena. The mill hiking trail in Simonswäldertal, for example, takes you to historic mills, while the Himmelsglück gourmet trail rewards you with fantastic panoramic views.
The premium and quality hiking trails in the Black Forest have earned their awards for good reason. These specially certified routes guarantee you varied hikes with particularly natural experiences and well-maintained infrastructure. The "Schluchtensteig" in the southern Black Forest is one such highlight - it takes you through spectacular gorges and along rushing waterfalls.
This makes the Black Forest one of the most popular hiking regions in Germany
What makes the Black Forest so special? It is this unique mixture of dense fir forest, rolling hills and impressive mountain peaks. Here you will find wild and romantic valleys as well as wide, open plateaus with spectacular views. This diversity is what makes hiking in the Black Forest so varied and exciting every time you visit.
Geographically, the Black Forest is divided into three regions:
- Northern Black Forest: extensive forests, Hornisgrinde (1,164 m), many moorland landscapes
- Central Black Forest: picturesque valleys, gentle meadow landscapes, idyllic farms
- Southern Black Forest: Alpine experiences, Feldberg (1,493 m), impressive panoramic views
The excellent infrastructure is another plus point. In the Black Forest, you will find well-marked trails, numerous cozy places to stop for refreshments and excellent public transport connections. This makes planning your hike a breeze - whether you are a beginner or an experienced mountain hiker.
5 reasons why the Black Forest is one of the top hiking regions:
- Varied landscapes - from rolling hills to alpine peaks
- Excellent infrastructure - well-marked trails and plenty of places to stop for refreshments
- Suitable for all levels - from easy family tours to challenging multi-day tours
- Cultural diversity - traditional Black Forest farms, watchmaking and regional cuisine
- Year-round hiking pleasure - every season offers special attractions
The tradition of hiking in the Black Forest dates back to the 19th century. Even back then, nature lovers recognized the special charm of this landscape. With the founding of the Black Forest Association in 1864, the systematic expansion of the hiking trail network began, which is now one of the best in Europe.
Where can I find the most beautiful gorges and waterfalls in the Black Forest?
If you are looking for dramatic natural scenery, you can't miss the impressive gorges and waterfalls of the Black Forest. Probably the most famous is the Wutach Gorge, also affectionately known as the "Grand Canyon of the Black Forest". Over a length of around 13 kilometers, the river Wutach has carved its way up to 170 meters deep into the rock. The hike through this spectacular gorge is moderately difficult and leads you over narrow paths, small bridges and through almost primeval forest-like vegetation with rare plants and animals.
Top gorges in the Black Forest:
- Wutach Gorge: The "Grand Canyon of the Black Forest" with gorges up to 170 meters deep
- Ravenna Gorge: Picturesque combination of nature and historic railroad bridge
- Glaswaldsee Gorge: Wild and romantic path with a small mountain lake
- Menzenschwander Tal: insider tip with impressive rock faces and clear mountain stream
Waterfall | Altitude | Region | Difficulty level | Special feature |
---|---|---|---|---|
Triberg waterfalls | 163 m | Middle Black Forest | easy | Highest waterfalls in Germany, well developed |
Todtnau Waterfall | 97 m | Southern Black Forest | easy-medium | Spectacular free fall, short ascent |
All Saints Waterfalls | 83 m | Northern Black Forest | medium | Several cascades, monastery ruins nearby |
Menzenschwander waterfall | 30 m | Southern Black Forest | easy | Insider tip, fewer visitors |
Another gem is the picturesque Ravenna Gorge in the southern Black Forest. The combination of wild nature and cultural history is particularly impressive here. The historic railroad bridge that spans the gorge is a popular photo motif - especially during the annual Christmas market, when it is festively illuminated. The hiking trail along the Ravenna stream is relatively easy and is also suitable for families.
The water spectacles in the Black Forest naturally include the Triberg waterfalls - the highest in Germany with a drop of 163 meters. The water of the Gutach plunges over seven steps into the depths. A well-maintained path leads along the falls, allowing you to experience this impressive natural spectacle from different perspectives.
The Todtnau waterfall in the southern Black Forest is no less impressive. With a drop height of 97 meters, it offers a majestic natural spectacle. Access is easy and leads along a short but steep path - but the spectacular view makes up for any effort!
What about hiking with children in the Black Forest?
The Black Forest is a true paradise for families with children! Here you will find numerous specially designed hiking trails that will delight even the youngest explorers. These routes are characterized by manageable distances, moderate differences in altitude and exciting adventure elements.
Family-friendly hiking trails in the Black Forest:
- Wichtelpfad Baiersbronn: 2.5 km, fairytale stations with play opportunities
- Northern Black Forest deer trail: 3 km, information stations on native wild animals
- Murgleiter Kids: 6 km, varied trail with many play stations
- Freudenstadt forest culture trail: 4 km, combines culture and nature in a playful way
Hiking trail | length | Duration | Age | Highlights |
---|---|---|---|---|
Gnome trail | 2.5 km | 1-2 hours | 3-10 years | Gnome figures, forest games, easy to walk on |
Feldberg nature adventure trail | 3 km | 2 hrs. | 6-14 years | Get to know animals and plants, interactive |
Lynx trail Ruhestein | 3.5 km | 2 hrs. | 7-14 years | Lynx information, viewing platform, play elements |
Witches' Hole Trail Triberg | 5 km | 2-3 hrs. | 8-14 years | Waterfalls, small cave, moderate inclines |
The themed hiking trails for children in the Black Forest are particularly popular. The "Gnome Trail" near Baiersbronn, for example, takes young hikers on a fairytale journey through the forest, where they can discover numerous gnome stations with puzzles and games. The "Deer Trail" in the northern Black Forest provides information about native wild animals and offers interactive stations to try out and learn.
Checklist for family hikes in the Black Forest:
- [ ] Choose a route with plenty of play areas and rest stops
- [ ] Mark emergency exit points on the map
- [ ] Pack enough snacks and drinks
- [ ] Take weatherproof clothing for everyone
- [ ] Plan small surprises for motivation lows
- [ ] Don't forget a first aid kit
- [ ] Sun protection (also in winter)
- [ ] Cell phone with saved emergency number (112)
When planning a family-friendly hike in the Black Forest, make sure there are plenty of places to stop and rest. Many routes also offer "emergency exit points" in case little legs get tired. A tip: always pack enough provisions, drinks and little surprises that you can unpack if your motivation wanes!
The nature trails in the Black Forest are true open-air classrooms. Here, children learn about the local flora and fauna in a playful way. The "Lynx Trail" at Ruhestein, for example, teaches exciting facts about the shy forest dwellers, while the "Forest Culture Trail" near Freudenstadt combines forest knowledge with cultural aspects.
Hiking with children in the Black Forest is a real adventure - and it also sharpens the little ones' awareness of the wonders of nature.

What should I bear in mind for a successful hike in the Black Forest?
The right preparation is essential for an all-round successful hiking experience in the Black Forest. First and foremost, of course, is the right equipment. Good footwear is essential - depending on the difficulty of your chosen tour, sturdy hiking boots with treaded soles are recommended. The weather can change quickly in the Black Forest, so you should always have rainproof clothing and sun protection with you. To avoid unsightly blisters, well-worn shoes and suitable socks are important. For longer tours, functional outdoor clothing that wicks away sweat well and dries quickly is also worthwhile.
Packing list for your Black Forest hike:
- [ ] Sturdy hiking boots with a good tread
- [ ] Functional clothing (breathable, quick-drying)
- [ ] Rain jacket and possibly rain trousers
- [ ] Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sun cream)
- [ ] Sufficient water (at least 1-2 liters per person)
- [ ] High-energy snacks and provisions
- [ ] Current hiking map of the region
- [ ] Smartphone with charged power bank
- [ ] First aid kit
- [ ] Blister plasters
- [ ] Pocket knife
Planning your route is the next important step. Despite smartphone apps, up-to-date hiking maps are still recommended - they work even without reception and battery. Nevertheless, digital helpers such as the Black Forest Association app or komoot can be very useful, especially for GPS tracks. Find out about the current condition of the trails before setting off, as routes may be closed after storms.
Time of year | Special features | Recommendation | Please note |
---|---|---|---|
Spring | Spring flowers, possible snow residue | Medium altitudes | Slushy paths after the snow melts |
Summer | Ideal hiking conditions, possible thunderstorms | Start early, high altitudes | Take enough water with you |
Autumn | Splendid colors, fog in the valleys | Panoramic trails, sunny slopes | Be aware of early dusk |
Winter | Snowy landscapes, clear views | Cleared winter hiking trails | Special equipment required |
Orientation in the Black Forest is facilitated by a well-developed marking system. The various symbols and colors all have their own specific meaning. A brief introduction to this signposting system for hiking trails will help you to reach your destination safely.
The most important signs in the Black Forest:
- Red diamond: Main hiking trails of the Black Forest Association
- Yellow diamond: Local and regional hiking trails
- Blue diamond: Connecting paths between main hiking trails
- Black triangle: Access and feeder trails
- Special symbols: Indicate themed or quality trails
Last but not least, responsible hiking is an important issue. The Black Forest is a sensitive ecosystem that we must protect together. Stay on the marked trails, take your garbage back with you and keep an appropriate distance from wild animals. You should be particularly considerate in areas with grazing livestock - keep dogs on a lead and close pasture gates after you have passed them.
The Black Forest offers special hiking experiences at any time of year: from the fresh green of spring to the abundance of summer to the colorful atmosphere of autumn and the silence of winter. With the right preparation, your hike in the Black Forest is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience! Pasture gates again after you have passed them.
The Black Forest offers special hiking experiences at any time of year: from the fresh green of spring to the abundance of summer to the colorful atmosphere of autumn and the silence of winter. With the right preparation, your hike in the Black Forest is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience!
Summary
With its diverse landscape, the Black Forest is a true hiking paradise for every taste - whether you prefer challenging mountain tours or leisurely family hikes, you are guaranteed to find the right route here.
The three regions of the Northern Black Forest, Upper Black Forest and Southern Black Forest each offer their own character and special highlights for hikers, from dense forests to picturesque valleys and alpine heights.
With a network of well-marked hiking trails, exciting gorges and impressive waterfalls, there is something for every level of hiker and every interest in the Black Forest - the Westweg from Pforzheim is an absolute classic.
Good planning, appropriate equipment and up-to-date information on the trails are crucial for a successful hike in the Black Forest - sturdy footwear and weatherproof clothing are particularly important.
Families with children will find numerous child-friendly hiking opportunities in the Black Forest with exciting adventure elements that will get even the little ones excited about nature.
The varied landscape of the Black Forest can be experienced while hiking at any time of year, with each season having its own special charm.
If you have now caught the hiking bug, discover our articles on hiking in the Teutoburg Forest, hiking in the Weserbergland and hiking trails in the Vogtland.