GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau
18kmLength
676mElevation gain
6–6.5hrEstimated time
Point-to-point
Fascinating hike in the Thuringian Forest.
The hike offers interesting insights into the geology here on the edge of the slate mountains. You can learn a lot about the caves here in the Schalkau shell limestone plateau - the Bleßberg Cave was only discovered in 2008! The Zinsel Cave can even be visited between May and September by prior arrangement. You can stop off at the Triniushütte near the route.
The start is right at Schalkau railway station, making it easy to travel there by train. There is also a railway station at the end of the hike for onward travel (Seltendorf station).
Highlights:
- Zinsel cave
- Bleßberg Cave
- Rauenstein Castle
- Porcelain museum
- Herrenteiche ponds
- Gold Museum
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Burg Rauenstein
Castle
Schloss Rauenstein
Castle
Fuchsloch
Spring
Zinselhöhle Ausgang
Cave
Zinselhöhle Eingang
Cave
Katerbrunnen
Spring
Ferienpark Thüringer Wald
Campsite
Herrenteiche
Picnic site
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Get to know this 18.0-km point-to-point trail near Schalkau, Thuringia. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 32 min to complete. This trail is great for camping and hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through September. Dogs are welcome and may be off-lead in some areas.
What is the expected weather this week for GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau?
Expected weather for GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau for the next 5 days is:
- Sun 20 September - 15.8 degrees/clear
- Mon 21 September - 17.2 degrees/clear
- Tue 22 September - 16.7 degrees/drizzle
- Wed 23 September - 14.8 degrees/clear
- Thu 24 September - 16.4 degrees/clear
Where is GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau located?
GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau is a trail located in Biosphärenreservat Thüringer Wald.
How hard is GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau?
GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau is considered a hard hike that covers 18 km, with an elevation gain of 676 m. It takes about 6–6.5 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 GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau?
GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau is considered a hard hike that covers 18 km, with an elevation gain of 676 m. It takes about 6–6.5 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau a point-to-point trail?
GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau is a point to point trail that covers 18 km, with an elevation gain of 676 m. It takes about 6–6.5 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 GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau?
GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau is a point to point trail that covers 18 km, with an elevation gain of 676 m. It takes about 6–6.5 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 GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau?
Yes, dogs are allowed on GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau. Double check regulations about letting off the lead.
When is the best time of year to hike GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau?
May to September is the most popular time of year to visit GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau.
How busy is GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau?
According to trailgoers, GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau is usually not too busy. May to September is the most popular time of year to visit GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau.
Is camping allowed at GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau?
Camping is allowed on GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau in Biosphärenreservat Thüringer Wald. 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 GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau?
Yes, GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau is a forest trail in Biosphärenreservat Thüringer Wald.
Are there wildflowers at GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on GeoPfad Bleßberghöhle - Schalkau, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on 18 September 2026 at 23:31 GMT+0