Napoleon-Steig
67% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
11.6kmLength
405mElevation gain
3.5–4hrEstimated time
Circular
Certified premium hiking trail in the Palatinate Forest Nature Park near Bruchweiler-Bärenbach, Rhineland-Palatinate.
This Felsenland tour is a certified premium hiking trail - recognised by the German Hiking Institute e.V. The impressive route leads along unspoilt paths through an impressive rocky landscape with fantastic views.
The first stop is the 500 metre long Retschelfelsen rock formation. From there, a path leads to the newly developed railway rocks with their unusual-looking formations and erosions in the red sandstone. Other special features of this route are the Rauhberg rocks and the Reinigshof spring with its wonderfully fresh and drinkable spring water. The Napoleon Rock can be found above the floodplain. After a refreshment stop at the Pfälzerwald-Vereinshütte "Am Schmalstein" (please note opening times), there is one last ascent to tackle before descending through the Wöllmersbach valley back down to Bruchweiler-Bärenbach.
Highlights of the hike:
- Admire the unusual shape of the Napoleon Rock
- Enjoying the spring water from the Reinigshof spring
- Hiking through the beautiful Wöllmersbach valley
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Saarturm
Cliff
Reinighofquelle
Spring
Rauhberg
Peak
Kaiserslauterer Hütte DAV
Hut
Westlicher Dretschfels
Cliff
Eisenbahn
Peak
Am Knopf
Peak
Eisenbahnfelsen
Viewpoint
WH 14a
Ruins
WH 13
Ruins
WH21
Ruins
WH 16
Ruins
WH 18
Ruins
WH 19
Ruins
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Experience this 11.6-km circular trail near Bruchweiler-Bärenbach, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 29 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
What is the expected weather this week for Napoleon-Steig?
Expected weather for Napoleon-Steig for the next 5 days is:
- Fri 25 September - 25.9 degrees/claro
- Sat 26 September - 27.6 degrees/claro
- Sun 27 September - 28.8 degrees/claro
- Mon 28 September - 27.6 degrees/claro
- Tue 29 September - 27.2 degrees/claro
Where is Napoleon-Steig located?
Napoleon-Steig is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Napoleon-Steig?
Napoleon-Steig is considered a moderate hike that covers 11.6 km, with an elevation gain of 405 m. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Napoleon-Steig?
Napoleon-Steig is considered a moderate hike that covers 11.6 km, with an elevation gain of 405 m. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Napoleon-Steig a circular?
Napoleon-Steig is a circular trail that covers 11.6 km, with an elevation gain of 405 m. It takes about 3.5–4 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 Napoleon-Steig?
Napoleon-Steig is a circular trail that covers 11.6 km, with an elevation gain of 405 m. It takes about 3.5–4 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 Napoleon-Steig?
Dogs may be allowed on Napoleon-Steig. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Napoleon-Steig?
Napoleon-Steig is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Napoleon-Steig?
According to trailgoers, Napoleon-Steig is usually busy. Napoleon-Steig is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there scenic views at Napoleon-Steig?
Yes, Eisenbahnfelsen is located on Napoleon-Steig.
Are there wildflowers at Napoleon-Steig?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Napoleon-Steig, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Napoleon-Steig?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Napoleon-Steig in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 25 September 2026 at 01:51 GMT+0