Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins
100% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
8.9miLength
2,224ftElevation gain
5–5.5hrEstimated time
Loop
Popular loop in the Central/North Black Forest Nature Park, Baden-Württemberg.
Hikers can look forward to beautiful forest paths, the ruins of a castle built around 1100, impressive rock formations and a mountain peak. The ascent to the summit of the Merkur can be completed using the mountain railroad, so the tour does not include any uphill sections. On foot, the route begins with a fairly steep ascent, which is rewarded with fantastic views. The Merkurstüble restaurant invites to take a break.
Highlights of the hike:
- Alt-Eberstein castle ruins
- Summit of the Merkur
- Detour to Battertfelsen near Hohenbaden Castle (optional)
- Angel's Pulpit and Devil's Pulpit
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Verbrannte Felsen
Cliff
Engelskanzel
Viewpoint
Lukas-Hütte
Viewpoint
Alt-Eberstein
Castle
Antriebsscheibe mit Antriebsritzel
Attraction
Merkur
Peak
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Get to know this 8.9-mile loop trail near Gernsbach, Baden-Wuerttemberg. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 54 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and trail running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are March through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins?
Expected weather for Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins for the next 5 days is:
- Tue, September 22 - 70 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 68 degrees/drizzle
- Thu, September 24 - 68 degrees/foggy
- Fri, September 25 - 74 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 80 degrees/clear
Where is Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins located?
Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins is a trail located in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park.
How hard is Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins?
Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,224 ft. It takes about 5–5.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins?
Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,224 ft. It takes about 5–5.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins a loop?
Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins is a loop trail that covers 8.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,224 ft. It takes about 5–5.5 hr to complete. Loop trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
How long is Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins?
Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins is a loop trail that covers 8.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,224 ft. It takes about 5–5.5 hr to complete. Loop trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
Are dogs allowed on Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins?
Dogs may be allowed on Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins?
March to October is the most popular time of year to visit Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins.
How busy is Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins?
According to trailgoers, Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins is usually somewhat busy. March to October is the most popular time of year to visit Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins.
Are there scenic views at Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins features multiple scenic viewpoints. Some of the viewpoints include Engelskanzel and Lukas-Hütte.
Is there running at Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins?
Yes, trailgoers have said that Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins is good for running. This trail covers 8.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,224 ft.
Are there forests at Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins?
Yes, Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins is a forest trail in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Baden-Baden - Merkur - Alt-Eberstein Castle Ruins, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on September 16, 2026 at 10:49 pm GMT+0