Esper Cave and the Felsensteig
100% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
12.2kmLength
455mElevation gain
4–4.5hrEstimated time
Circular
Popular and scenic circular trail in Franconian Switzerland, near Gößweinstein, Bavaria, Germany.
The route starts in the village of Gößweinstein and leads across fields and meadows via Ludwigshöhe to Leutzdorf. The Esper cave is located in the middle of the forest. The route continues to Burggaillenreuth and from there begins the descent into the Wiesental valley. Now you walk along the river (Wiesent). The leisurely descent is now followed by a final ascent via the Felsensteig trail back to Gößweinstein.
Highlights:
- Esper cave
- Gaillenreuth Castle
- Rocky path in the Eibenwald nature reserve
- Gößweinstein Castle (www.burg-goessweinstein.de)
- Refreshment stops
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Burg Gößweinstein
Castle
Heinrichshöhle
Cave
Ölberggrotte
Cave
Kapuzinerhöhle
Cave
Basilika zur Heiligsten Dreifaltigkeit
Attraction
Gaillenreuth
Castle
Burg Gaillenreuth
Castle
Die Zinken oder Napoleonsfels
Cliff
Burggaillenreuther Quelle
Spring
Wickenstein
Cliff
Widderpumpe
Attraction
Bärenstein
Viewpoint
Emporwand
Cliff
Untere Gößweinsteiner Wände
Cliff
Schloßberg
Peak
Elisabethengrotte
Cave
Ludwigshöhe
Peak
Bärensteinwände - Small Dervils
Cliff
Höhle Wassergrotte
Cave
Top sights
Burg Gößweinstein
Castle
Heinrichshöhle
Cave
Ölberggrotte
Cave
Kapuzinerhöhle
Cave
Basilika zur Heiligsten Dreifaltigkeit
Attraction
Gaillenreuth
Castle
Burg Gaillenreuth
Castle
Die Zinken oder Napoleonsfels
Cliff
Burggaillenreuther Quelle
Spring
Wickenstein
Cliff
Widderpumpe
Attraction
Bärenstein
Viewpoint
Emporwand
Cliff
Untere Gößweinsteiner Wände
Cliff
Schloßberg
Peak
Elisabethengrotte
Cave
Ludwigshöhe
Peak
Bärensteinwände - Small Dervils
Cliff
Höhle Wassergrotte
Cave
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Check out this 12.2-km circular trail near Gößweinstein, Bavaria. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 45 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. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
What is the expected weather this week for Esper Cave and the Felsensteig?
Expected weather for Esper Cave and the Felsensteig for the next 5 days is:
- Wed 23 September - 14.7 degrees/showers
- Thu 24 September - 15 degrees/clear
- Fri 25 September - 18.9 degrees/clear
- Sat 26 September - 20.9 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 22.5 degrees/clear
Where is Esper Cave and the Felsensteig located?
Esper Cave and the Felsensteig is a trail located in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park.
How hard is Esper Cave and the Felsensteig?
Esper Cave and the Felsensteig is considered a moderate hike that covers 12.2 km, with an elevation gain of 455 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Esper Cave and the Felsensteig?
Esper Cave and the Felsensteig is considered a moderate hike that covers 12.2 km, with an elevation gain of 455 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Esper Cave and the Felsensteig a circular?
Esper Cave and the Felsensteig is a circular trail that covers 12.2 km, with an elevation gain of 455 m. It takes about 4–4.5 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 Esper Cave and the Felsensteig?
Esper Cave and the Felsensteig is a circular trail that covers 12.2 km, with an elevation gain of 455 m. It takes about 4–4.5 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 Esper Cave and the Felsensteig?
Dogs may be allowed on Esper Cave and the Felsensteig. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Esper Cave and the Felsensteig?
Esper Cave and the Felsensteig is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Esper Cave and the Felsensteig?
According to trailgoers, Esper Cave and the Felsensteig is usually somewhat busy. Esper Cave and the Felsensteig is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there scenic views at Esper Cave and the Felsensteig?
Yes, Bärenstein is located on Esper Cave and the Felsensteig.
Is there running at Esper Cave and the Felsensteig?
Yes, trailgoers have said that Esper Cave and the Felsensteig is good for running. This trail covers 12.2 km, with an elevation gain of 455 m.
Are there forests at Esper Cave and the Felsensteig?
Yes, Esper Cave and the Felsensteig is a forest trail in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Esper Cave and the Felsensteig?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Esper Cave and the Felsensteig, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Esper Cave and the Felsensteig?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Esper Cave and the Felsensteig in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 23 September 2026 at 01:41 GMT+0