From Neidenfels to Drachenfels
100% of reviewers say this trail is strenuous
18.5kmLength
850mElevation gain
6.5–7hrEstimated time
Circular
Popular circular hiking trail in the Palatinate Forest, Rhineland-Palatinate.
This beautiful loop leads from Neidenfels railway station to the Drachenfels rock plateau. In addition to the natural beauty of the Palatinate Forest, you can enjoy cultural and historical monuments, including the relics of Lichtenstein Castle. Covered resting places such as the Pottasche Hütte invite you to linger and enjoy. On the way back, you are accompanied for a while by the gentle babbling of the Stütertalbach stream.
The hike begins with a steep ascent. There are also frequent ups and downs along the way. Sturdy footwear is therefore recommended.
Highlights of the hike:
- Neidenfels Castle
- Drachenfels viewing platform
- View and dragon cave
- Lichtenstein castle ruins
- Residues of the charcoal distillery
- Inns Lichtensteinhütte, Zum Saupferch and Waldhaus Lambertskreuz (oldest hut of the Palatinate Forest Association)
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Süd-Fels
Viewpoint
Westfelshütte
Weather shelter
Drachenfels
Peak
West-Fels
Viewpoint
Burg Neidenfels
Castle
Drachenhöhle
Cave
Durchblickkammer
Attraction
Nadenbrunnen
Spring
Haseltal
Valley
Steinberg
Peak
Zwerlebachtal
Valley
Vordertal
Valley
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
Beat the crowds with weekly and monthly trail activity data from our community
Adventure starts in the app
Offline maps, navigation, and conditions — all in one place
Top trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Get to know this 18.5-km circular trail near Neidenfels, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 14 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding and 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. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a lead.
How to get to From Neidenfels to Drachenfels?
Public transport: Neidenfels train station
What is the expected weather this week for From Neidenfels to Drachenfels?
Expected weather for From Neidenfels to Drachenfels for the next 5 days is:
- Sat 26 September - 26.6 degrees/onbewolkt
- Sun 27 September - 27.6 degrees/onbewolkt
- Mon 28 September - 27.5 degrees/onbewolkt
- Tue 29 September - 27.5 degrees/onbewolkt
- Wed 30 September - 26.8 degrees/onbewolkt
Where is From Neidenfels to Drachenfels located?
From Neidenfels to Drachenfels is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is From Neidenfels to Drachenfels?
From Neidenfels to Drachenfels is considered a hard hike that covers 18.5 km, with an elevation gain of 850 m. It takes about 6.5–7 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 From Neidenfels to Drachenfels?
From Neidenfels to Drachenfels is considered a hard hike that covers 18.5 km, with an elevation gain of 850 m. It takes about 6.5–7 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is From Neidenfels to Drachenfels a circular?
From Neidenfels to Drachenfels is a circular trail that covers 18.5 km, with an elevation gain of 850 m. It takes about 6.5–7 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 From Neidenfels to Drachenfels?
From Neidenfels to Drachenfels is a circular trail that covers 18.5 km, with an elevation gain of 850 m. It takes about 6.5–7 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 From Neidenfels to Drachenfels?
Yes, dogs are allowed on From Neidenfels to Drachenfels, but must remain on a lead.
When is the best time of year to hike From Neidenfels to Drachenfels?
From Neidenfels to Drachenfels is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is From Neidenfels to Drachenfels?
According to trailgoers, From Neidenfels to Drachenfels is usually somewhat busy. From Neidenfels to Drachenfels is open all year round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Is there bird watching at From Neidenfels to Drachenfels?
Yes, trailgoers have said that From Neidenfels to Drachenfels is good for bird watching. Various bird species have been spotted on the trail and in the surrounding area.
Are there forests at From Neidenfels to Drachenfels?
Yes, From Neidenfels to Drachenfels is a forest trail in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
Are there wildflowers at From Neidenfels to Drachenfels?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on From Neidenfels to Drachenfels, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at From Neidenfels to Drachenfels?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at From Neidenfels to Drachenfels in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 23 September 2026 at 23:12 GMT+0