Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall
100% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
5.8kmLength
174mElevation gain
1.5–2hrEstimated time
Circular
Relaxed circular hiking trail in the UNESCO Swabian Alb Biosphere Reserve, Baden-Württemberg.
Geological attractions, a pretty waterfall, a castle ruin worth seeing - this short circular hike in the Lauter Valley promises plenty of variety. Overall, the route is rated as easy, but there is a very steep, short climb up to the Wartstein ruins.
Highlights of the hike:
- High Gießel waterfall
- Ruins of Wartstein Castle
- Valley of the Große Lauter
- Gemsfels
- Four Bavarian arches
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Karstquelle Blaubrunnen
Spring
Ruine Wartstein
Castle
Hoher Gießel
Waterfall
Heuscheuerle
Cave
Vier Bayerbögen
Cave
Gemsfels
Cliff
Ochsenlöcher
Cave
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Discover this 5.8-km circular trail near Hayingen, Baden-Wuerttemberg. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 38 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and trail running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a lead.
What is the expected weather this week for Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall?
Expected weather for Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall for the next 5 days is:
- Sat 26 September - 23.3 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 24.8 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 23.7 degrees/clear
- Tue 29 September - 25 degrees/clear
- Wed 30 September - 24.5 degrees/showers
Where is Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall located?
Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall is a trail located in Biosphärengebiet Schwäbische Alb.
How hard is Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall?
Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall is considered an easy hike that covers 5.8 km, with an elevation gain of 174 m. It takes about 1.5–2 hr to complete. Easy trails are typically short, with clearly marked paths and fairly level terrain.
What is the elevation gain for Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall?
Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall is considered an easy hike that covers 5.8 km, with an elevation gain of 174 m. It takes about 1.5–2 hr to complete. Easy trails are typically short, with clearly marked paths and fairly level terrain.
Is Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall a circular?
Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall is a circular trail that covers 5.8 km, with an elevation gain of 174 m. It takes about 1.5–2 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 Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall?
Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall is a circular trail that covers 5.8 km, with an elevation gain of 174 m. It takes about 1.5–2 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 Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall, but must remain on a lead.
Are there waterfalls at Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall?
Yes, Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall has a scenic view of Hoher Gießel.
Is there running at Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall?
Yes, trailgoers have said that Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall is good for running. This trail covers 5.8 km, with an elevation gain of 174 m.
Are there forests at Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall?
Yes, Wartstein Ruins and Hohe Giessel Waterfall is a forest trail in Biosphärengebiet Schwäbische Alb.
Last updated on 24 September 2026 at 02:24 GMT+0