Westweg trail with dog – North

You will travel to Pforzheim today, either by train, bus, or your own vehicle.

Pforzheim, also known as the "Gateway to the Black Forest," is a diverse city. Its history is experienced in museums and historic sites like the Jewelry Museum and the Gasometer. Furthermore, Pforzheim entices with its picturesque surroundings on the edge of the Black Forest.

From Pforzheim to Dobel. Distance: approx. 27 km | 760 m ascent | 320 m descent | short cut option*.

The Westweg trail starts off gently, taking you through the river valleys of the Enz and Nagold. A small highlight is crossing the Grösselbach stream using stepping stones. After reaching Neuenbürg Castle, high above the mining town of the same name, you'll start ascending through deep forests with the characteristic tall fir trees typical of the Black Forest.

*short cut option: train ride Pforzheim - Neuenbürg (-12 km)

Dobel, a charming village in the Northern Black Forest, is characterized by its tranquil and natural surroundings, making it ideal for hiking and relaxation. Particularly impressive are the numerous well-marked hiking trails that wind through dense forests and green hills. Dobel also offers a relaxed atmosphere and is a perfect place to escape the daily grind and experience the beauty of the Black Forest.

From Dobel to Forbach. Distance: approx. 26 km | 530 m ascent | 930 m descent | short cut option*.

From the sunny plateau of Dobel, you'll immerse yourself in the densely wooded Northern Black Forest, leaving it from time to time to enjoy magnificent views. Kaltenbronn offers a wild and romantic experience as you walk on a boardwalk through the high moor. The highlight of today, quite literally, is the Hohlohturm tower, which offers panoramic views from the Vosges to the Swabian Alps, Odenwald, and even the Swiss Alps.

*short cut option: bus/train ride from Kaltenbronn (-9 km)

Forbach, nestled in the enchanting nature of the Black Forest, is a tranquil and idyllic village that captivates nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The historic "Alte Forbacher Holzbrücke" (Old Forbach Wooden Bridge) over the Murg River is one of the most impressive sights in the village. The bridge spans almost 38 meters across the Murg River without the need for central supports. With a weight of 129 tons, this massive wooden bridge can carry a payload of 64 tons.

From Forbach to Unterstmatt. Distance: approx. 19 km | 1,010 m ascent | 390 m descent | short cut option*.

Today's route is challenging, with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain. You'll cross the first two of a total of ten peaks above 1,000 meters along the Westweg. Steep ascents, beautiful views, and deep blue waters in the Schwarzenbach Reservoir and the idyllic Herrenwieser Karsee lake await you. Hochkopf is particularly beautiful, with cotton grass blooming in spring and vibrant heather in late summer.

*short cut option: bus ride from Sand or Hundseck (-5 km / -3 km)

Unterstmatt is a remote and idyllic village in the Black Forest. It's a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, making it a perfect destination for hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of the Black Forest.

From Unterstmatt to Alexanderschanze. Distance: approx. 28 km | 740 m ascent | 710 m descent | short cut option*.

This stage features the highlights of the Northern Black Forest: the Hornisgrinde as the highest mountain, the legendary Mummelsee, and the protected Schliffkopf with its high moor-like summit. The flora and fauna in the Grindenschwarzwald are also impressive: with a bit of luck, you might encounter a European adder or catch a glimpse of a sand lizard.

*short cut option: bus ride from Schliffkopf or Zuflucht (-10 km / -3 km)

The mountain pass of Alexanderschanze is located along the Schwarzwaldhochstraße (Black Forest High Road) and serves as a crossing point for several hiking trails in the Black Forest, such as the Westweg. It is a somewhat unspectacular place with a dilapidated, old hotel that has been waiting for revival for many years.

From Alexanderschanze to Harkhof Distance: approx. 17 km | 280 m ascent | 570 m descent

After the challenging stages of the past few days, today is a bit more relaxed. “Forest bathing” could be the theme of the day. Right from the start, you’ll immerse yourself deep in the forest, only emerging shortly before reaching your destination at the very idyllic Harkhof. Throughout the stage, you’ll be surrounded by dense woods, tall trees, deep shadows, and lush greenery.

With its idyllic location in the Black Forest and its traditional charm, Hark and the homonymous farm offer a welcoming place to rest and the opportunity to savor regional specialties and homemade delicacies. The peaceful atmosphere and the chance to relax amidst nature make Harkhof a popular stopover for hikers exploring this picturesque region.

From Harkhof to Hausach Distance: approx. 16 km | 360 m ascent | 790 m descent

One of the shortest stages on the Westweg gives you the opportunity for a small detour today: a climb up to the Brandenkopf Tower, which, unsurprisingly, rewards you with a fantastic view over the Kinzig Valley. A stop at the Käppelehof is also highly recommended. The stage ends with a final challenge as the trail descends steeply in switchbacks from the scenic Spitzfelsen down into the Kinzig Valley.

Hausach in the Kinzigtal valley is fortunate when it comes to climate and weather. Despite being in the midst of the Black Forest, Hausach is known for its mild, fog-free climate in spring and autumn. Located centrally in the Kinzigtal, the town is an important educational center and a significant hub for industry and commerce.