On this hiking trip, you’ll cover the classic 119 km of the Schluchtensteig trail over six stages. The journey begins in Stühlingen, on the Swiss border, and ends in Wehr, not far from the High Rhine River. On the stages—around 20 km each—you’ll hike from hotel to hotel through the Southern Black Forest Nature Park. Water is a constant companion along the way: a total of seven gorges, stunning waterfalls, and countless beautiful viewpoints await you.
You will arrive in Stühlingen by train, bus, or your own vehicle during the day.
In Stühlingen, there are public parking lots for hikers close to the city hall. You can park your vehicle for the duration of your hiking trip for free.The nearest train station is Lauchringen. From there, you continue to Stühlingen by public bus.
It is primarily known as the starting point for the hike along the Schluchtensteig trail. Additionally, the Southern Black Forest Cycle Path also passes through Stühlingen.
From Stühlingen to Blumberg. Distance: approx. 19 km | 510 m ascent | 270 m descent
You'll be ascending from the river Rhine to the Baar region. The uphill sections should not be underestimated but are rewarded with impressive views. With a bit of luck, you might encounter the historic Sauschwänzle Railway on the first part of the stage. Later, you'll continue on narrow, root-covered paths through the primeval-like "Wutachflühen" towards Blumberg.
The cityscape of Blumberg is unusual due to its history. It exhibits characteristics of a mining town, reminiscent of places in the Ruhr area. Blumberg is a state-recognized recreational destination and serves as the starting point for numerous hikes. It is located directly on the Schluchtensteig, Querweg, and WasserWeltenSteig hiking trails.
From Blumberg to Schattenmühle. Distance: approx. 20 km | 340 m ascent | 370 m descent
Today, you'll immerse yourself deep into the world of the Black Forest canyons. Between steep, rugged rock walls, the wild Wutach River carves its way through one of the oldest nature reserves in Baden-Württemberg. The trail takes you along the rushing river, waterfalls cascade, and lush greenery surrounds you everywhere. At the end of the stage, a short bus ride will take you from Schattenmühle to Löffingen or Bonndorf. To get to your accommodation in Bonndorf, hike through the beautiful Lotenbachklamm gorge to the bus stop (approx. 1.5 km; 30 min); from there, the hiking bus will take you on a short ride to Bonndorf.
The name is derived from its deep, "shady" location within the gorge. The first documented evidence of the mill dates back to the year 1596 when a "miller from Göschweiler" is mentioned. Many long-distance hiking trails pass through this area, including the Schluchtensteig, WasserWeltensteig, and Querweg.
From Schattenmühle to Fischbach. Distance: approx. 18 km | 600 m ascent | 240 m descent
From Schattenmühle, you'll pass by Räuberschlössle and Stallegger Holzbrücke (wooden bridge), constantly ascending and descending, exiting the canyon towards Lenzkirch. Especially idyllic spots can be found at the confluences of Rötenbach and Haslach. Taking a little break in Lenzkirch is worth the time because from there, you'll have another steep ascent to Fischbach.
Fischbach is situated between Lenzkirch and Schluchsee. Numerous hiking trails run through the valley, with the most famous one being the Schluchtensteig.
From Fischbach to St. Blasien. Distance: approx. 21 km | 410 m ascent | 670 m descent
Just as you start your hike in the morning, one of the most beautiful views of the tour awaits you: the view from Bildstein down to Schluchsee. On a clear day, you might even see the Alpine peaks. During a break at Unterkrummenhof, you can observe the sparkling waters of the enormous Lake Schluchsee. The route continues along varied forest paths to St. Blasien. Be sure to take a look inside the cathedral with its imposing dome.
Sankt Blasien is famous for its cathedral. Additionally, it is located right along the Schluchtensteig and Albsteig hiking trails.
From St. Blasien to Todtmoos. Distance: approx. 19 km | 540 m ascent | 500 m descent
Today, instead of looking into deep canyons, you'll have numerous viewpoints to gaze into the distance. From the observation tower on Lehenkopf, your view stretches far across the Black Forest. On clear days you can even see the Swiss Jura from Horbacher Heide. A panoramic sign will explain the visible peaks of the Alpine range. Towards the end of the stage, the trail lives up to its name again: you descend into the Hohwehraschlucht and arrive in the town of Todtmoos.
Todtmoos is known for its large pilgrimage church and the regular pilgrimages that take place from all directions.
From Todtmoos to Wehr. Distance: approx. 23 km | 410 m ascent | 870 m descent
This stage leads you to Wehr along beautiful forest trails. Along the way, you'll hike on narrow paths with steep slopes. A short additional climb to the Mettlerhütte is worthwhile. The small hut is not staffed, but there is a fountain in front of it where you can refill your water supplies and enjoy the beautiful view. After the Wehratalsperre (Wehra Reservoir), you can almost continue strolling until you arrive in Wehr.
Wehr is a small town situated along the Wehra River, between the Dinkelberg to the west and the High Black Forest to the east. It is characterized by its industrial activities.
overnight stays in hiking-friendly mid-range accommodations according to the program
other meals and beverages
+++ The listed accommodations are subject to availability. If an accommodation is fully booked during your travel period, we will book an alternative, if possible, in the same standard. This may result in price changes. +++
Please provide any non-binding booking requests, such as allergy bedding, separate beds, vegetarian meals, etc., at the time of booking.
For subsequent booking of additional services or the subsequent notification of booking requests:
a one-time service fee of € 25.00 will apply.
Best Travel Time
This trip can be booked from April to October.
Dogs
You’re welcome to bring your four-legged friend. To do so, please book the corresponding trip under our Dog-Friendly Tours.
Special Features of the Trail
The Schluchtensteig is characterized by narrow paths and wild trails through the gorges, as well as quiet forest paths along the Black Forest heights. Especially in the Wutach Gorge, paths run through deep gorges and along steep slopes—surefootedness and a head for heights are required. This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Parking
In Stühlingen, public parking is available where you can leave your vehicle free of charge for the duration of your hiking trip.
Return to the Starting Point
From all stage locations, you can use the KONUS guest card to return to your starting point via public transport free of charge. The journey takes between 1.5 and 3 hours depending on the route and usually involves several changes. Please note: Stühlingen is not part of the KONUS system. If you wish to leave your car at the destination on arrival day and travel to Stühlingen first, you will need to purchase a ticket. Alternatively, a private taxi transfer can be booked through us (€226 for 1–3 persons; €235 for 4–8 persons).
KONUS
With the KONUS guest card, you can use public transport in the Black Forest free of charge. Please check the details here.
Individual Adjustments
Do you have any special requests? For example, taking a rest day or carrying your luggage yourself? Contact us—we’ll be happy to prepare a customized offer wherever possible!
Group Discount
Traveling with friends? The more, the merrier—and cheaper: for groups of 5 or more, the total price is reduced by 4%; for 10 or more, by 10%. Get in touch, and we’ll create a tailored offer for you.
Other Hiking Trips
All self-guided hiking tours with luggage transfer can be found here: Hiking without luggage!
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