Westweg trail – Across the Black Forest from North to South

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 days, you can take it a bit easier today. "Forest bathing" could be the motto of this day. Right from the start, you'll immerse yourself deep into the forest and won't emerge until shortly before your destination, the very idyllic Harkhof. Dense forests, tall trees, deep shadows, and lush greenery will accompany you throughout the entire stage.

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. 15 kms | 360 meters uphill | 790 meters downhill.

One of the shortest stages on the Westweg gives you the opportunity for a little detour today: up to the Brandenkopf Tower, which, as you might guess, rewards you with a great view over the Kinzigtal. But a visit to the Käppelehof is also a tempting option. The challenge comes towards the end of the stage when the trail descends steeply in switchbacks from the viewpoint of Spitzfelsen down into the Kinzigtal.

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.

From Hausach to Schonach. Distance: approx. 21 km | 1,110 m ascent | 370 m descent

Some refer to it as the devil's stage of the Westweg: almost 1,300 meters of elevation await you today. However, after the first steep climb up to Farrenkopf, you will have completed half of the altitude gain. Two more ascents later, you can relax at Karlstein and take in the view of seemingly endless fir forests. From here, you will gently ascend and descend to Wilhelmshöhe.

In Schonach, hiking trails invite you to explore the landscape and nature reserves on foot, with a mountain bike, or an e-bike. Popular destinations include the legendary Blindensee and the Rohrhardsberg nature reserve. Numerous cross-country skiing trails and ski slopes are also available. Additionally, thanks to the world's largest cuckoo clock, Schonach has made it into the Guinness Book of World Records.

From Schonach to Kalte Herberge. Distance: approx. 22 km | 440 m ascent | 390 m descent | short cut option*.

Right at the beginning, you'll encounter the Hochmoor-Blindensee, an especially idyllic spot. It's so beautiful here that you might feel like whispering. Next, you'll reach the Martinskapelle, where you can find the source of the Danube nearby. While it may not look particularly spectacular, it's still impressive when you consider how this small stream eventually becomes a mighty river.

*short cut option: bus ride from Neukirch (-5 km)

The Kalte Herberge is a stage destination on the long-distance hiking trail Westweg. This traditional mountain inn is located between the vacation regions of Furtwangen, Triberg, and Titisee in an idyllic setting. In the summer, nature enthusiasts and active vacationers can enjoy the area, and in the winter, ski lifts and cross-country ski tracks delight skiers' hearts.

From Kalte Herberge to Hinterzarten. Distance: approx. 27 km | 520 m ascent | 650 m descent | short cut option*.

The Feldberg is calling. Although the highest peak of the Black Forest is not on your itinerary today, it will gradually come into view as you progress, building your anticipation. The highlight of this stage is undoubtedly Lake Titisee, the largest and most famous natural lake in the Black Forest. It's worth taking in the local atmosphere while enjoying a slice of Black Forest cake.

*short cut option: bus ride from Breitnau (- 9 km) | train ride from Titisee (-6 km)

Originally a pure farming village, Hinterzarten is now heavily influenced by tourism. The town is characterized by numerous hotels, tourist leisure facilities, and a diverse gastronomy scene. It is also home to the Black Forest Ski Museum. In general, the town is associated with winter sports, and the ski jump hills on the outskirts of the town are a prominent feature of its landscape, visible from afar.

From Hinterzarten to Notschrei. Distance: approx. 21 km | 720 m ascent | 490 m descent.

The queen stage awaits you, with the ascent of the Feldberg. Needless to say, the view from up here is absolutely breathtaking. But continuing your journey is also worthwhile. At Stübenwasen, a beautiful pass below the Feldberg, things are a bit more peaceful. On Germany's largest tree trunk lounger, you can enjoy the view in complete tranquility and let the sun pamper you.

With its vast forests, clear mountain lakes, and numerous hiking and cross-country skiing trails, this place offers an ideal environment for outdoor activities in every season. The Notschrei is also an excellent starting point for outdoor adventures such as skiing and mountain biking, allowing visitors to experience the untouched beauty of the Black Forest in all its glory.

The endpoint of the Westweg trail is located directly at the mountain pass. Accommodation can be found in either Todtnauberg or Muggenbrunn. Information about the altered hiking route can be found in the travel documents.

From Notschrei to Haldenhof. Distance: approx. 19 km | 530 m ascent | 730 m descent.

After the highest peak, today you ascend to arguably the most beautiful summit in the Black Forest, the Belchen at 1,414 meters. An alpine path winds its way beautifully up the steep north side from Wiedener Eck. When you arrive at the barren mountain top, you'll enjoy an indescribable panoramic view over the entire Southern Black Forest to the Alps. But be careful not to be carried away by the wind.

The Haldenhof is also the endpoint of the stage. From here, travelers can continue to Badenweiler, the Kleine Wiesental, or Staufen. Notable attractions in the municipality include the Nonnenmattweiher, the Belchen, the Sternenschanze, the Schwedenschanze, and the Dekan-Strohmeyer-Kapelle.

From Haldenhof to Kandern. Distance: approx. 20 km | 440 m ascent | 1,010 m descent.

Slowly, the end of the Westweg is approaching. With the Blauen, you have the last of the ten 1,000-meter peaks in front of you today. One last steep ascent, one last panoramic view with a glimpse of your final destination, Weil am Rhein. Descend along small forest paths, passing through Hexenplatz (Witches' Square) and Sausenburg, leaving the Black Forest behind and entering the historic town of Kandern. It almost feels a bit Mediterranean here.

Kandern's tradition as a pottery town is evident in the local Heimat- und Keramikmuseum (local history and ceramics museum), in the ceramic workshops, and during a visit to the ceramic market held in September. The Blumenplatz (Flower Square) in the town center is one of the most beautiful classical market squares in southern Germany.

From Kandern to Weil am Rhein. Distance: approx. 21 km | 490 m ascent | 560 m descent.

On the last stage, you finally leave the Black Forest behind. Green meadows, charming vineyards, and open deciduous forests in the Markgräflerland region contrast with the deep Black Forest of the past few days. Weil am Rhein marks the end of your journey on the Westweg. From there, the Swiss city of Basel is just a stone's throw away and definitely worth a visit.

The cityscape is characterized by 21 Maxi-Chairs, whose prototypes are housed in the internationally renowned Vitra Design Museum. The museum, along with its attached architecture park, attracts over 70,000 visitors annually. The Dreiländerbrücke (Three-Country Bridge) is also well-known worldwide.