Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal
16.7kmLength
581mElevation gain
5–5.5hrEstimated time
Point-to-point
First stage of the long-distance hiking trail "Pfälzer Waldpfad", Rhineland-Palatinate.
This is the first stage of the certified quality trail "Pfälzer Waldpfad", which leads from Kaiserslautern to the German Wine Gate in Schweigen-Rechtenbach through the Palatinate Forest.
The starting point of this stage, which can be reached by bus and train, is in Kaiserslautern. There is a particularly unforgettable view from the Humberg tower on this hike, which is rich in beautiful panoramic views: from a height of 36 metres, you can overlook large parts of the Palatinate Forest and the Palatinate Highlands.
At the finish point, you can stop for refreshments and spend the night at the Naturfreundehaus Finsterbrunnertal (alternatively: campsite or overnight stay in Trippstadt or Stelzenberg).
Highlights of the hike:
- Kaiserslautern
- Humberg tower
- Finsterbrunnertal Friends of Nature Centre
- Roter Hohl
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Großer Humberg
Peak
Humbergturm
Viewpoint
Biertal
Valley
Pfaffenbrunnen
Spring
Rambachbrunnen
Spring
Pfaffenberg
Peak
Finsterbrunner Tal
Campsite
Unnerbrünnchen
Spring
Hungerbrunnen
Spring
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Get to know this 16.7-km point-to-point trail near Kaiserslautern, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 52 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
What is the expected weather this week for Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal?
Expected weather for Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal for the next 5 days is:
- Sat 26 September - 27.1 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 27.9 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 28.1 degrees/clear
- Tue 29 September - 27.6 degrees/clear
- Wed 30 September - 19.9 degrees/showers
Where is Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal located?
Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal?
Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal is considered a hard hike that covers 16.7 km, with an elevation gain of 581 m. It takes about 5–5.5 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 Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal?
Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal is considered a hard hike that covers 16.7 km, with an elevation gain of 581 m. It takes about 5–5.5 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal a point-to-point trail?
Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal is a point to point trail that covers 16.7 km, with an elevation gain of 581 m. It takes about 5–5.5 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 Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal?
Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal is a point to point trail that covers 16.7 km, with an elevation gain of 581 m. It takes about 5–5.5 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 Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal?
Dogs may be allowed on Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
Are there scenic views at Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal?
Yes, Humbergturm is located on Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal.
Is camping allowed at Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal?
Camping is allowed on Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Is backpacking allowed at Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal?
Backpacking is allowed on Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal. 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 Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal?
Yes, Pfälzer Waldpfad Etappe 1: Kaiserslautern - Finsterbrunnertal is a forest trail in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
Last updated on 26 September 2026 at 01:07 GMT+0