HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East
100% of reviewers say this trail is hard
680.3kmLength
26,386mElevation gain
24hr+Estimated time
Point-to-point
Popular long-distance hiking trail between the Vosges mountains and Lake Geneva, France/Switzerland.
The HexaTrak long-distance hiking trail explores the varied landscapes of France over a distance of 3000 km. The first stage is a good 670 km long and runs through the low mountain region, which is characterised by one of the highest densities of castles per square kilometre in the world.
Firstly, you hike through the Northern Vosges Regional Park, where the castles of Fleckenstein, Windstein and Lichtenberg and some fantastic viewpoints await you. The route continues through the Ballons des Vosges Regional Park, which includes the striking peaks and pretty Alsatian villages of the High Vosges. Towards the end of the first HexaTrek stage, you reach the Doubs Regional Park, which is characterised by the wild gorges of the Doubs. From here, you continue into Switzerland, where the hike ends at Lake Geneva.
Highlights of the hike:
- numerous castles
- Krappenfels and Böhmerfelsen viewpoints
- Peaks and villages in the High Vosges
- Valley of the Doubs
- Saut du Doubs waterfall
- Lake Geneva
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Check out this 680.3-km point-to-point trail near Schweigen-Rechtenbach, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 211 h 36 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are April through October.
What is the expected weather this week for HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
Expected weather for HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East for the next 5 days is:
- Fri 25 September - 25.9 degrees/clear
- Sat 26 September - 27.7 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 29.1 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 27.7 degrees/clear
- Tue 29 September - 27.6 degrees/clear
Where is HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East located?
HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is a trail located in Schweigen-Rechtenbach, Rhineland-Palatine, Germany.
How hard is HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is considered a hard hike that covers 680.3 km, with an elevation gain of 26,386 m. It takes about 24 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 HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is considered a hard hike that covers 680.3 km, with an elevation gain of 26,386 m. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East a point-to-point trail?
HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is a point to point trail that covers 680.3 km, with an elevation gain of 26,386 m. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Point-to-point routes have a different starting point and endpoint. The length of the trail refers to one-way travel on this route. Don't forget to plan for transportation when exploring point-to-point routes!
How long is HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is a point to point trail that covers 680.3 km, with an elevation gain of 26,386 m. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Point-to-point routes have a different starting point and endpoint. The length of the trail refers to one-way travel on this route. Don't forget to plan for transportation when exploring point-to-point routes!
Are dogs allowed on HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
Dogs may be allowed on HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East.
How busy is HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
According to trailgoers, HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is usually somewhat busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East.
Is backpacking allowed at HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
Backpacking is allowed on HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East. Backpacking trails are typically longer and are often point-to-point trails. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Are there forests at HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
Yes, HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is a forest trail.
Last updated on 23 September 2026 at 22:47 GMT+0