Schluchtensteig trail – Seven canyons in one week

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.