Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen
100% of reviewers say this trail is hard
17.2miLength
2,611ftElevation gain
8–8.5hrEstimated time
Point to point
This route is stage 4 of the Albsteig (HW1), a long-distance trail along the northern edge of the Swabian Jura. This specific segment starts in Bopfingen and ends in Aalen-Unterkochen. The hike features two significant hydrological highlights: the source of the Eger and the source of the Kocher. The path passes the Schenkenstein ruins to Aufhausen and continues over the Wöllerstein—complete with a summit cross and logbook—towards Kapfenburg Castle. Before reaching Unterkochen, hikers can explore the historical remains of the Kocherburg. Overnight stays are available at guesthouses and hotels in Bopfingen or Unterkochen; wild camping is prohibited in the nature park. Potable water is accessible in the towns and at the springs, but a supply should be carried for the forested sections. Both locations are excellently connected to the railway network (towards Aalen, Donauwörth, Ulm); schedules are found at https://www.bahn.de.
For the full route and all stages, see https://www.alltrails.com/lists/albsteig-donauworth-tuttlingen - Official AllTrails List.
This text has been translated.
Part of a multi-day route
Albsteig (HW1)
Top sights
Weißer Kocher
Spring
1. Die Kocherburg bei Aalen-Unterkochen
Ruins
Burg Schenkenstein
Castle
Wöllerstein
Peak
Egerursprung
Spring
Frauenberg
Peak
Hettelsberg
Peak
Sandberg
Peak
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Check out this 17.2-mile point-to-point trail near Aalen, Baden-Wuerttemberg. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 7 h 37 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are April through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen?
Expected weather for Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen for the next 5 days is:
- Fri, September 25 - 74 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 76 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 81 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 28 - 78 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 29 - 77 degrees/clear
Where is Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen located?
Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen is a trail located in Aalen, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany.
How hard is Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen?
Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen is considered a hard hike that covers 17.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,611 ft. It takes about 8–8.5 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 Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen?
Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen is considered a hard hike that covers 17.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,611 ft. It takes about 8–8.5 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen a point to point trail?
Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen is a point to point trail that covers 17.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,611 ft. It takes about 8–8.5 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 Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen?
Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen is a point to point trail that covers 17.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,611 ft. It takes about 8–8.5 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 Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen?
Dogs may be allowed on Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen.
How busy is Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen?
According to trailgoers, Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen is usually somewhat busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen.
Is backpacking allowed at Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen?
Backpacking is allowed on Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen. Backpacking trails are typically longer and are often point-to-point trails. 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 Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen?
Yes, Albsteig (HW1) Stage 4: Bopfingen - Aalen-Unterkochen is a forest trail.
Last updated on September 24, 2026 at 10:52 pm GMT+0