Schmankerlweg Etzelwang
11.1kmLength
338mElevation gain
3–3.5hrEstimated time
Circular
Popular premium hiking trail in the Franconian Switzerland Nature Park, Bavaria.
A special feature of the Etzelwanger Schmankerlweg is the cosy inns, tasty delicacies and good beer in harmony with the beautiful, hilly Upper Palatinate landscape. The circular route is well marked throughout.
From the centre of Etzelwang, the route leads via Penzenhof to Lehendorf and up to the DAV hut. With beautiful views, the route leads through gently undulating countryside to Neutras. The viewpoint on the Neutrasfelsen rock is a nice detour.
The route continues across meadows and a country road to Kirchenreinbach, from where the path climbs steeply to the ruins of the Rupprechtstein hilltop castle. From the castle hill there is a marvellous view of the Sulzbacher Bergland. Back downhill towards the starting point, you can see Neidstein Castle, which stands in the middle of an impressive yew forest.
forest.
Highlights:
- Rupprechtstein Castle
- Great views
- Cosy places to stop for refreshments
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Neutrasfelsen
Peak
Burg Rupprechtstein
Castle
Lehendorf-Blick
Viewpoint
Röthenbacher Hütte
Alpine hut
Starenfels
Peak
Gemeindeberg
Peak
Etzelbachtal-Blick
Viewpoint
Gemeindefels
Cliff
Pumperberg
Peak
Rohrberg
Peak
Spitzenberg
Peak
Lehental
Valley
Wurzwollberg
Peak
Riedberg
Peak
Pfaffenberg
Peak
Schloss Kirchenreinbach
Castle
Top sights
Neutrasfelsen
Peak
Burg Rupprechtstein
Castle
Lehendorf-Blick
Viewpoint
Röthenbacher Hütte
Alpine hut
Starenfels
Peak
Gemeindeberg
Peak
Etzelbachtal-Blick
Viewpoint
Gemeindefels
Cliff
Pumperberg
Peak
Rohrberg
Peak
Spitzenberg
Peak
Lehental
Valley
Wurzwollberg
Peak
Riedberg
Peak
Pfaffenberg
Peak
Schloss Kirchenreinbach
Castle
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
Beat the crowds with weekly and monthly trail activity data from our communityTop trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Enjoy this 11.1-km circular trail near Etzelwang, Bavaria. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 8 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
What is the expected weather this week for Schmankerlweg Etzelwang?
Expected weather for Schmankerlweg Etzelwang for the next 5 days is:
- Mon 21 September - 14.2 degrees/clear
- Tue 22 September - 16.1 degrees/clear
- Wed 23 September - 15.5 degrees/showers
- Thu 24 September - 15.5 degrees/drizzle
- Fri 25 September - 20.7 degrees/clear
Where is Schmankerlweg Etzelwang located?
Schmankerlweg Etzelwang is a trail located in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park.
How hard is Schmankerlweg Etzelwang?
Schmankerlweg Etzelwang is considered a moderate hike that covers 11.1 km, with an elevation gain of 338 m. It takes about 3–3.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Schmankerlweg Etzelwang?
Schmankerlweg Etzelwang is considered a moderate hike that covers 11.1 km, with an elevation gain of 338 m. It takes about 3–3.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Schmankerlweg Etzelwang a circular?
Schmankerlweg Etzelwang is a circular trail that covers 11.1 km, with an elevation gain of 338 m. It takes about 3–3.5 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 Schmankerlweg Etzelwang?
Schmankerlweg Etzelwang is a circular trail that covers 11.1 km, with an elevation gain of 338 m. It takes about 3–3.5 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 Schmankerlweg Etzelwang?
Dogs may be allowed on Schmankerlweg Etzelwang. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Schmankerlweg Etzelwang?
Schmankerlweg Etzelwang is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Schmankerlweg Etzelwang?
According to trailgoers, Schmankerlweg Etzelwang is usually not too busy. Schmankerlweg Etzelwang is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there scenic views at Schmankerlweg Etzelwang?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Schmankerlweg Etzelwang features multiple scenic viewpoints. Some of the viewpoints include Lehendorf-Blick and Etzelbachtal-Blick.
Is Schmankerlweg Etzelwang paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Schmankerlweg Etzelwang is partially paved.
Are there forests at Schmankerlweg Etzelwang?
Yes, Schmankerlweg Etzelwang is a forest trail in Franconian Switzerland-Franconian Jura Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Schmankerlweg Etzelwang?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Schmankerlweg Etzelwang, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on 17 September 2026 at 05:13 GMT+0