Rennsteig Stage 1: Hörschel - Ruhla

This route follows stage 1 of the Rennsteig, connecting Hörschel on the Werra River with Ruhla on a historic first section. The hike leads from the banks of the Werra up into the Thuringian Forest, offering vast views and passing historical markers such as the "Wilde Sau" stone cross and the Vachaer Stein. A special highlight is the Hohe Sonne rest area, which provides an impressive view of Wartburg Castle. Traditionally, hikers collect a pebble from the Werra at the start in Hörschel to throw it into the Selbitz River in Blankenstein at the end of their journey. Overnight stays are available in inns in Ruhla or at the Hubertushaus near Ascherbrück; wild camping is prohibited along the ridge. Potable water and refreshments can be found at Hohe Sonne or the Auerhahn Hut, though supplies should be refilled in Hörschel. The starting point in Hörschel has its own train station, while Ruhla is connected by bus to Eisenach; schedules at https://www.vgw-wartburgkreis.de or https://www.bahn.de. For the full route and all stages, see https://www.alltrails.com/lists/rennsteig - Official AllTrails List.