Best backpacking trails in Donauwörth
3.9(13 reviews)
Explore the most popular backpacking trails near Donauwörth with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you.
Top trails
- 4.0 (4)·Moderate·61.5 km·Est. 14–15 hrStage 9 of the German Danube Cycle Route. This section of the Danube Cycle Path starts in Donauwörth. Cyclists can marvel at castles and monasteries as well as the edge of the Altmühltal Nature Park on the almost 60 kilometres along the Danube to the day's destination of Ingolstadt. Highlights: - Historic Donauwörth - Stepperg Castle - Benedictine monastery in Bergen
- 4.0 (6)·Hard·17.4 km·Est. 4.5–5 hrThis route is stage 1 of the Albsteig (HW1), a long-distance hiking trail along the northern edge of the Swabian Jura. This specific section begins in the historic old town of Donauwörth and ends in Harburg. The path leads from the Zeughaus along the Wörnitz River to Wörnitzstein and then continues via quiet forest paths. A scenic highlight is the moment when the view opens up to the imposing Harburg Castle, which towers majestically over the stage destination. Overnight stays are possible...
- 5.0 (1)·Moderate·50.4 km·Est. 11.5–12.5 hrStage 17 of the D-Route 9 (Weser - Romantic Road). The 17th day tour of D-Route 9 leads from Donauwörth, where the Wörnitz, Danube and Kessel rivers meet, along the Augsburg - Western Forests Nature Park via Biberach to Augsburg. The cycle tour is characterised by the picturesque river valleys of the Schmutter and Lech as well as the idyllic western forests. Highlights: - Donauwörth - Langweid am Lech: ensemble of Eggelhof estate and vicarage
- Hard·359.4 km·Est. 24 hr+The Albsteig, also known as HW1, is a classic long-distance trail spanning 350 km (217.5 miles) across the dramatic northern edge of the Swabian Jura from Donauwörth to Tuttlingen, typically hiked in 15 to 25 stages. The route traverses dense beech forests, limestone plateaus, and mystical caves, closely following the steep Albtrauf ridgeline. Hikers will encounter cultural landmarks like Lichtenstein Castle, Castle Teck, and Hohenzollern Castle while enjoying panoramic views toward the Black...
- 2.7 (2)·Moderate·29 km·Est. 7–7.5 hrCultural section of the Romantic Road long-distance hiking trail Across meadows, open fields and wildflower meadows, this hike takes you along picturesque waterways and through idyllic villages and towns steeped in history. The numerous historical and cultural sights make for an interesting and varied experience. Highlights: -Mertingen Museum -Holzen Monastery -Church of St James -Chapel of the Sorrowful Mother of God -Church of the Holy Cross
- Moderate·19 km·Est. 5–5.5 hrCultural and panoramic section of the long-distance hiking trail Schwäbische Alb Südrand-Weg HW 2 A varied hike with numerous cultural and famous historical sights. The route passes through forests and valleys, along idyllic rivers and with excellent views. This stage has refreshment stops and is accessible by train and bus. Highlights: -Town hall from 1235 -Gothic brick hall church -Ender reading room -Parish church of St Leonhard
- Hard·265.4 km·Est. 24 hr+Cultural and panoramic section of the long-distance hiking trail Schwäbische Alb Südrand-Weg HW 2 A varied hike with numerous cultural and famous historical sights. The trail leads through forests and valleys, past outstanding views and along idyllic rivers. This stage has refreshment stops and is accessible by train and bus. Highlights: -Idyllic villages -Famous monasteries and castles -Stunning natural phenomena -Valleys of the Danube -Ballmertshofen Castle -Charlotten Cave -Ulm...
Frequently asked questions
What is the longest backpacking trail in Donauwörth?
According to AllTrails.com, the longest backpacking trail in Donauwörth is Albsteig (HW1). This trail is estimated to be 359.4 km long.
Which backpacking trail has the most elevation gain in Donauwörth?
Donauwörth: With an ascent of 13,976 m, Albsteig (HW1) has the most elevation gain of all of the backpacking trails in the area. The next highest ascent for backpacking trails is Schwäbische Alb Südrandweg HW2 (Fernwanderweg) with 8,449 m of elevation gain.
What is the most popular and difficult backpacking trail in Donauwörth?
The most popular and difficult backpacking trail in Donauwörth is Albsteig (HWI) Stage 1: Donauwörth - Harburg with a 4.0-star rating from 6 reviews.