Frankenstein - Rabenfels
50% of reviewers say this trail is hard
21.7kmLength
808mElevation gain
7–7.5hrEstimated time
Circular
Beautiful circular route around Franconia in the Palatinate Forest in Rhineland-Palatinate.
In the Palatinate Forest Nature Park, this route leads along winding paths around Frankenstein. In the local community, hikers ca nmarvel at the ruins of Frankenstein Castle, among other things. It is possible to travel comfortably by train to Frankstein, where the hike begins at the railway station. From there, the route heads in the direction of Frankenstein Castle and continues up and down to Rabenfels, finally reaching Weidenthal and then heading north through the forest past the Pfälzerwald resting forest. The route leads back via Thörigtal, Erlenbach and Diemerstein.
There are frequent ups and downs and the route is also quite long, which is why a certain basic fitness level is an advantage.
Highlights:
- Hilly forest paths
- Frankenstein castle ruins
- Beautiful views over the Palatinate Forest Nature Park
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Top sights
Burgruine Frankenstein
Castle
Ruine Diemerstein
Castle
Rabenfels
Attraction
Wolfsberg
Peak
Hansentaler Höhe
Peak
Turm Burgruine Frankenstein
Viewpoint
Dreispitz
Peak
Mitteleck
Peak
Spitzkopf
Peak
Kleines Kirschtal
Valley
Ritterstein 276 "Heene's Monopoly"
Attraction
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Try this 21.7-km circular trail near Frankenstein, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 38 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, 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 Frankenstein - Rabenfels?
Expected weather for Frankenstein - Rabenfels for the next 5 days is:
- Thu 24 September - 20.2 degrees/clear
- Fri 25 September - 25.2 degrees/clear
- Sat 26 September - 25.4 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 28.3 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 27.3 degrees/clear
Where is Frankenstein - Rabenfels located?
Frankenstein - Rabenfels is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Frankenstein - Rabenfels?
Frankenstein - Rabenfels is considered a hard hike that covers 21.7 km, with an elevation gain of 808 m. It takes about 7–7.5 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
What is the elevation gain for Frankenstein - Rabenfels?
Frankenstein - Rabenfels is considered a hard hike that covers 21.7 km, with an elevation gain of 808 m. It takes about 7–7.5 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Frankenstein - Rabenfels a circular?
Frankenstein - Rabenfels is a circular trail that covers 21.7 km, with an elevation gain of 808 m. It takes about 7–7.5 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 Frankenstein - Rabenfels?
Frankenstein - Rabenfels is a circular trail that covers 21.7 km, with an elevation gain of 808 m. It takes about 7–7.5 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 Frankenstein - Rabenfels?
Dogs may be allowed on Frankenstein - Rabenfels. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Frankenstein - Rabenfels?
Frankenstein - Rabenfels is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Frankenstein - Rabenfels?
According to trailgoers, Frankenstein - Rabenfels is usually somewhat busy. Frankenstein - Rabenfels is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there scenic views at Frankenstein - Rabenfels?
Yes, Turm Burgruine Frankenstein is located on Frankenstein - Rabenfels.
Are there forests at Frankenstein - Rabenfels?
Yes, Frankenstein - Rabenfels is a forest trail in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
Are there wildflowers at Frankenstein - Rabenfels?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Frankenstein - Rabenfels, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Frankenstein - Rabenfels?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Frankenstein - Rabenfels in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 23 September 2026 at 23:29 GMT+0