Annweiler Castle Trail
80% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
7.9kmLength
423mElevation gain
3–3.5hrEstimated time
Circular
Popular premium hiking trail in the Palatinate Forest, Rhineland-Palatinate.
This route is a certified premium hiking trail, parts of which follow the long-distance Pfälzer Weinsteig trail. The relatively short but very varied route is also suitable for families. The starting point of the hike is the P1 car park at the Kurpark in Annweiler am Trifels. From here, the route follows mostly natural, narrow paths past spectacular rock formations, castles and castle ruins. A short detour to the Trifels Imperial Fortress, where the English King Richard the Lionheart was once held prisoner, is highly recommended. However, the rather steep climb up to the castle requires a certain level of fitness. There is an entrance fee to visit the castle. If you are travelling with a dog, dogs are not allowed in the castle.
The hike can be reached by bus and train (access from Annweiler am Trifels railway station). There are places to stop for refreshments.
Attention! The Scharfenberg/Münz castle ruins on the trail are closed until probably the end of 2023 due to renovation work.
Highlights of the hike:
- Trifels Imperial Castle
- Scharfenberg Castle / Münz
- Family-friendly
- Neukastell ruins
- Very high proportion of nature trails
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Top sights
Jungturm
Peak
Sonnenberg (Wasgau)
Peak
Reichsburg Trifels
Castle
Naturfreunde Annweiler
Campsite
Konzertmuschel
Hut
Ritterstein 221 "Windhof"
Attraction
Anebos
Castle
Bindersbacher Turm
Peak
Fensterfels
Peak
Scharfenberg
Peak
Waldgalerie Annweiler
Attraction
Burg Scharfenberg
Castle
Münzfels
Peak
Reisemobilstellplätze Markwardanlage (am Kurpark)
Caravan site
Pfalz-Lamas
Attraction
Top sights
Jungturm
Peak
Sonnenberg (Wasgau)
Peak
Reichsburg Trifels
Castle
Naturfreunde Annweiler
Campsite
Konzertmuschel
Hut
Ritterstein 221 "Windhof"
Attraction
Anebos
Castle
Bindersbacher Turm
Peak
Fensterfels
Peak
Scharfenberg
Peak
Waldgalerie Annweiler
Attraction
Burg Scharfenberg
Castle
Münzfels
Peak
Reisemobilstellplätze Markwardanlage (am Kurpark)
Caravan site
Pfalz-Lamas
Attraction
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Enjoy this 7.9-km circular trail near Annweiler am Trifels, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 51 min to complete. This is a very popular area for camping and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a lead.
What is the expected weather this week for Annweiler Castle Trail?
Expected weather for Annweiler Castle Trail for the next 5 days is:
- Sat 26 September - 27.8 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 27.6 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 27.4 degrees/clear
- Tue 29 September - 27.6 degrees/clear
- Wed 30 September - 27 degrees/drizzle
Where is Annweiler Castle Trail located?
Annweiler Castle Trail is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Annweiler Castle Trail?
Annweiler Castle Trail is considered a moderate hike that covers 7.9 km, with an elevation gain of 423 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 Annweiler Castle Trail?
Annweiler Castle Trail is considered a moderate hike that covers 7.9 km, with an elevation gain of 423 m. It takes about 3–3.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Annweiler Castle Trail a circular?
Annweiler Castle Trail is a circular trail that covers 7.9 km, with an elevation gain of 423 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 Annweiler Castle Trail?
Annweiler Castle Trail is a circular trail that covers 7.9 km, with an elevation gain of 423 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 Annweiler Castle Trail?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Annweiler Castle Trail, but must remain on a lead.
When is the best time of year to hike Annweiler Castle Trail?
Annweiler Castle Trail is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Annweiler Castle Trail?
According to trailgoers, Annweiler Castle Trail is usually busy. Annweiler Castle Trail is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Is camping allowed at Annweiler Castle Trail?
Camping is allowed on Annweiler Castle Trail 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 Annweiler Castle Trail child-friendly?
Yes, many trailgoers have described Annweiler Castle Trail as good for children and families. Child-friendly trails are typically short, with clearly marked paths and fairly level terrain.
Are there forests at Annweiler Castle Trail?
Yes, Annweiler Castle Trail is a forest trail in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
Are there wildflowers at Annweiler Castle Trail?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Annweiler Castle Trail, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there a fee required at Annweiler Castle Trail?
Yes, a fee is required at Annweiler Castle Trail. Check local park resources for more information.
Last updated on 26 September 2026 at 02:49 GMT+0