Karlsruher Grat
60% of reviewers say this trail is hard
7.7miLength
2,437ftElevation gain
Loop
Natural Black Forest gourmet trail in the Middle Black Forest, Baden-Württemberg
This route is a certified premium hiking trail starting at the train station in Ottenhöfen in the Black Forest (accessible by bus and train). Hikers can expect a very varied circular route, which has a lot of special features in store, from the Edelfrauengrab waterfalls to the Getränkebrunnen in the Göttschlägertal. Hikers who are sure-footed and have a head for heights can climb a section of the Karlsruher Grat. If you are looking for a less adrenaline-packed tour, you can use an alternative path on the north side of the ridge. This is signposted separately.
There are places to stop along the way. Easily accessible by bus and train.
Highlights of the hike:
- Edelfrauengrab Waterfalls
- Getränkebrunnen in the Gottschlagal valley
- Karlsruher Grat (the only via ferrata in the northern Black Forest)
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Edelfrauengrab-Wasserfälle
Waterfall
Edelfrauengrab
Attraction
Campingplatz Murhof
Campsite
Brennte Schrofen
Viewpoint
Aussicht Köningerhof
Viewpoint
Karlsruher Grat
Cliff
Herrenschrofen
Viewpoint
Karlsruher Grat
Peak
Eichkopf
Peak
Schnapsbrunnen
Attraction
Eichhaldenfirst
Viewpoint
Falkenschrofen
Peak
Wasserfall am Holderbrünnle
Waterfall
Top sights
Edelfrauengrab-Wasserfälle
Waterfall
Edelfrauengrab
Attraction
Campingplatz Murhof
Campsite
Brennte Schrofen
Viewpoint
Aussicht Köningerhof
Viewpoint
Karlsruher Grat
Cliff
Herrenschrofen
Viewpoint
Karlsruher Grat
Peak
Eichkopf
Peak
Schnapsbrunnen
Attraction
Eichhaldenfirst
Viewpoint
Falkenschrofen
Peak
Wasserfall am Holderbrünnle
Waterfall
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 7.7-mile loop trail near Ottenhöfen im Schwarzwald, Baden-Wuerttemberg. Generally considered a challenging route. This is a very popular area for camping, hiking, and rock climbing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are April through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Karlsruher Grat?
Expected weather for Karlsruher Grat for the next 5 days is:
- Sat, September 19 - 72 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 20 - 67 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 21 - 69 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 22 - 74 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 75 degrees/clear
Where is Karlsruher Grat located?
Karlsruher Grat is a trail located in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park.
Are dogs allowed on Karlsruher Grat?
Dogs may be allowed on Karlsruher Grat. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Karlsruher Grat?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Karlsruher Grat.
How busy is Karlsruher Grat?
According to trailgoers, Karlsruher Grat is usually very busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Karlsruher Grat.
Are there waterfalls at Karlsruher Grat?
Yes, Karlsruher Grat has scenic views of Edelfrauengrab-Wasserfälle, Viewpoint, and Wasserfall am Holderbrünnle.
Are there scenic views at Karlsruher Grat?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Karlsruher Grat features multiple scenic viewpoints. Some of the viewpoints include Brennte Schrofen, Aussicht Köningerhof, Herrenschrofen, and Eichhaldenfirst.
Is camping allowed at Karlsruher Grat?
Camping is allowed on Karlsruher Grat in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Is rock climbing allowed at Karlsruher Grat?
Rock climbing is allowed on Karlsruher Grat in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Is Karlsruher Grat a via ferrata route?
Yes, Karlsruher Grat is a via ferrata route in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park that requires special equipment and extra planning.
Are there forests at Karlsruher Grat?
Yes, Karlsruher Grat is a forest trail in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park.
Is there wildlife at Karlsruher Grat?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Karlsruher Grat in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Does Karlsruher Grat include a scramble?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Karlsruher Grat includes scrambling. The trail may include boulders or other large obstacles to climb over. Watch your footing and wear footwear with good traction.
Is Karlsruher Grat rocky?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Karlsruher Grat includes rocky terrain. Watch your footing and wear footwear with good traction.
Last updated on September 18, 2026 at 4:05 pm GMT+0