Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg
16.4miLength
3,339ftElevation gain
9–10hrEstimated time
Point to point
Stage 9 of the “Donau-Zollernalb-Weg” long-distance hiking trail, Baden-Württemberg.
This is the ninth stage of the Donau-Zollernalb-Weg quality trail, which runs for almost 160 km from Beuron in the Danube Valley to the Lemberg and crosses the highest part of the Swabian Alb. The ninth and longest stage of the long-distance hiking trail starts in the Meßstetten. The hike ends in Schömberg. You climb several mountain ranges from which you have great views of Tübingen and the region's landmark, Hohenzollern Castle. Sturdy shoes and a good basic level of fitness are recommended.
There are places to stay overnight and stop for refreshments at the stage destination, but not along the way.
Highlights of the hike:
- the Hörnle (views!)
- View of Hohenzollern Castle
- Plettenberg with Plettenberg quarry
- Lochenstein
- Schömberger Reservoir
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Befestigungswall
Ruins
Befestigungswall mit Graben
Archaeological site
Felsenmeer
Attraction
Plettenberg
Peak
Lochenhütte
Hut
Plettenberghütte
Alpine hut
Gespaltener Fels
Peak
Wenzelstein
Peak
Hoher Fels
Viewpoint
Hörnle
Peak
Schlichemtalsperre
Reservoir
Lochenstein
Peak
Schinderlucke
Viewpoint
Heimberg
Peak
Bühlenbröller
Cave
Schafberg Nordgipfel
Peak
Gespaltener Fels
Viewpoint
Grillplatz
Picnic site
Eisenzeitlicher Äußerer Wall auf dem Gräbelesberg
Archaeological site
Top sights
Befestigungswall
Ruins
Befestigungswall mit Graben
Archaeological site
Felsenmeer
Attraction
Plettenberg
Peak
Lochenhütte
Hut
Plettenberghütte
Alpine hut
Gespaltener Fels
Peak
Wenzelstein
Peak
Hoher Fels
Viewpoint
Hörnle
Peak
Schlichemtalsperre
Reservoir
Lochenstein
Peak
Schinderlucke
Viewpoint
Heimberg
Peak
Bühlenbröller
Cave
Schafberg Nordgipfel
Peak
Gespaltener Fels
Viewpoint
Grillplatz
Picnic site
Eisenzeitlicher Äußerer Wall auf dem Gräbelesberg
Archaeological site
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Explore this 16.4-mile point-to-point trail near Meßstetten, Baden-Wuerttemberg. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 8 h 41 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
What is the expected weather this week for Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg?
Expected weather for Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg for the next 5 days is:
- Fri, September 25 - 70 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 73 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 74 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 28 - 74 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 29 - 75 degrees/clear
Where is Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg located?
Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg is a trail located in Upper Danube Nature Park.
How hard is Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg?
Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg is considered a hard hike that covers 16.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,339 ft. It takes about 9–10 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 Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg?
Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg is considered a hard hike that covers 16.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,339 ft. It takes about 9–10 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg a point to point trail?
Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg is a point to point trail that covers 16.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,339 ft. It takes about 9–10 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 Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg?
Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg is a point to point trail that covers 16.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,339 ft. It takes about 9–10 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 Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg?
Dogs may be allowed on Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
Are there scenic views at Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg features multiple scenic viewpoints. Some of the viewpoints include Hoher Fels, Schinderlucke, and Gespaltener Fels.
Is backpacking allowed at Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg?
Backpacking is allowed on Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg. 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 Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg?
Yes, Donau-Zollernalb-Weg Etappe 9: Meßstetten - Schömberg is a forest trail in Upper Danube Nature Park.
Last updated on September 23, 2026 at 10:55 pm GMT+0