Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto
55% of reviewers say this trail is easy
3.5kmLength
114mElevation gain
1–1.5hrEstimated time
Circular
Great circular route in the Thuringian Forest, Thuringia.
A beautiful and not too long circular route in wild and romantic nature. The "Elfengrotte" - a steep wall here in the layered landscape, idyllic ponds and a detour to a small waterfall await.
Start at the signpost for the Mariental hiking trails. A little further up the main road, there is a pay and display car park.
Highlights:
- wild and romantic Dragon Gorge
- Knöpfel ponds
- "Elf Grotto" natural monument
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Königstein
Peak
Knöpfelsteiche
Pond
Mariental
Valley
Elfengrotte
Cave
Landgrafenschlucht
Gorge
Drachenschlucht
Gorge
Annatal
Valley
Güldene Pforte
Attraction
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Top trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Check out this 3.5-km circular trail near Eisenach, Thuringia. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 1 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are February through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto?
Expected weather for Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto for the next 5 days is:
- Sun 20 September - 17.2 degrees/clear
- Mon 21 September - 17.8 degrees/clear
- Tue 22 September - 19.3 degrees/clear
- Wed 23 September - 14.9 degrees/drizzle
- Thu 24 September - 17.6 degrees/clear
Where is Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto located?
Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto is a trail located in Thuringian Forest Nature Park.
How hard is Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto?
Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto is considered an easy hike that covers 3.5 km, with an elevation gain of 114 m. It takes about 1–1.5 hr to complete. Easy trails are typically short, with clearly marked paths and fairly level terrain.
What is the elevation gain for Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto?
Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto is considered an easy hike that covers 3.5 km, with an elevation gain of 114 m. It takes about 1–1.5 hr to complete. Easy trails are typically short, with clearly marked paths and fairly level terrain.
Is Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto a circular?
Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto is a circular trail that covers 3.5 km, with an elevation gain of 114 m. It takes about 1–1.5 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 Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto?
Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto is a circular trail that covers 3.5 km, with an elevation gain of 114 m. It takes about 1–1.5 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 Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto?
Dogs may be allowed on Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto?
February to October is the most popular time of year to visit Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto.
How busy is Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto?
According to trailgoers, Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto is usually busy. February to October is the most popular time of year to visit Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto.
Are there forests at Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto?
Yes, Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto is a forest trail in Thuringian Forest Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Circular Route 3: Mariental - Dragon Gorge - Elven Grotto, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on 20 September 2026 at 01:16 GMT+0