Sankenbachsteig
Caution
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77% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
12.4kmLength
564mElevation gain
4.5–5hrEstimated time
Circular
• Partial Closure Sankenbach Waterfall: Since 18 July 2026, parts of the bridges at the Sankenbach Waterfall have been damaged due to a landslide. The path leading up from the Sankenbach Waterfall to the Wasserfallhütte is therefore impassable and closed until further notice. A diversion is signposted. Further information: https://www.schwarzwald-tourismus.info/attraktionen/baiersbronn-sankenbachwasserfall-ebfdf7ddf0
Multifaceted, certified premium hiking trail in the Central Black Forest, Baden-Württemberg.
This route is a gourmet trail in the Black Forest. The circular hike begins in the Sankenbach valley and then leads along the Kienbächle to the romantic Sankenbachsee. It is one of five cirque lakes that formed in the last and penultimate ice age. It continues with a moderately difficult ascent along the steep Karwand to the two-stage waterfalls up to the Kniebis, on to the Stöckerkopf. You now go downhill along the Grubersteig, a former trade route - the transport of wood and charcoal can still be seen today on the deeply cut ravine. The path leads to Friedrichstal. Here are the former "Königliche Hüttenwerke" - contemporary witnesses of local mining and ore processing.
There are places to stop for refreshments and you can travel by bus or train.
Highlights of the hike:
- Sankenbach waterfalls
- "Wood and customs station" at the Kniebis monastery
- Schwäbische Hüttenwerke
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Raiblesbrunnen
Spring
Sankenbachsee
Lake
Sankenbachwasserfall
Waterfall
Misse-Hütte
Weather shelter
Ev. Michaelskirche
Church
Wasserfallhütte
Weather shelter
Rossköpfle
Peak
Stöckerkopf
Peak
Schnapsbrunnen
Attraction
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Explore this 12.4-km circular trail near Baiersbronn, Baden-Wuerttemberg. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 9 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are March through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Sankenbachsteig?
Expected weather for Sankenbachsteig for the next 5 days is:
- Wed 23 September - 14.7 degrees/clear
- Thu 24 September - 15.3 degrees/clear
- Fri 25 September - 19.1 degrees/clear
- Sat 26 September - 22.5 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 22.4 degrees/clear
Where is Sankenbachsteig located?
Sankenbachsteig is a trail located in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park.
How hard is Sankenbachsteig?
Sankenbachsteig is considered a moderate hike that covers 12.4 km, with an elevation gain of 564 m. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Sankenbachsteig?
Sankenbachsteig is considered a moderate hike that covers 12.4 km, with an elevation gain of 564 m. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Sankenbachsteig a circular?
Sankenbachsteig is a circular trail that covers 12.4 km, with an elevation gain of 564 m. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Circular trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
How long is Sankenbachsteig?
Sankenbachsteig is a circular trail that covers 12.4 km, with an elevation gain of 564 m. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Circular trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
Are dogs allowed on Sankenbachsteig?
Dogs may be allowed on Sankenbachsteig. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Sankenbachsteig?
March to October is the most popular time of year to visit Sankenbachsteig.
How busy is Sankenbachsteig?
According to trailgoers, Sankenbachsteig is usually busy. March to October is the most popular time of year to visit Sankenbachsteig.
Are there lakes at Sankenbachsteig?
Yes, Sankenbachsteig is near Sankenbachsee.
Are there waterfalls at Sankenbachsteig?
Yes, Sankenbachsteig has scenic views of Sankenbachwasserfall and Viewpoint.
Are there forests at Sankenbachsteig?
Yes, Sankenbachsteig is a forest trail in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Sankenbachsteig?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Sankenbachsteig, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Sankenbachsteig?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Sankenbachsteig in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 22 September 2026 at 19:57 GMT+0