Gernsbacher Loop
100% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
27miLength
5,692ftElevation gain
14–15.5hrEstimated time
Point to point
Scenic, certified premium hiking trail in the northern Black Forest, Baden-Württemberg.
This long but beautiful loop, awarded the German hiking seal, is a real forest tour. It leads through spruce, fir, oak and beech forests and past majestic chestnut, Douglas fir and sequoia trees. Since three different vegetation levels are passed through on the way, it goes up and down again and again. The climbs are rewarded with magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. But the route also has a lot to offer in terms of cultural history: Built in 1272 by order of the Counts of Eberstein, Eberstein Castle towers high above Gernsbach.
On the way there are always opportunities to stop and connect to public transport.
Highlights of the hike:
- Tyrolean hay huts
- Eberstein Castle
- Saulachkopf Hut
- Anthony Chapel
- Laufbach waterfall
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Merkur
Peak
Heuplattenfelsen
Peak
Großer Lautenfelsen
Peak
Lautenfelsen
Viewpoint
Lautenfelsenhütte
Hut
Ahornhütte
Weather shelter
Wohnmobilstellplatz Obertsrot
Caravan site
Dachsstein
Peak
Stauweiher
Reservoir
Erzgrube
Cave
Kleiner Staufenberg
Peak
Rockertfelsen
Peak
Rockertkopf
Peak
Pfarrberg
Viewpoint
Sägmühlteich
Reservoir
Laufbach-Wasserfall
Waterfall
Lochfelsen
Peak
Kleiner Lautenfelsen
Peak
Aussichtspunkt Galgenbusch
Viewpoint
Haselgrund Hütte
Hut
Top sights
Merkur
Peak
Heuplattenfelsen
Peak
Großer Lautenfelsen
Peak
Lautenfelsen
Viewpoint
Lautenfelsenhütte
Hut
Ahornhütte
Weather shelter
Wohnmobilstellplatz Obertsrot
Caravan site
Dachsstein
Peak
Stauweiher
Reservoir
Erzgrube
Cave
Kleiner Staufenberg
Peak
Rockertfelsen
Peak
Rockertkopf
Peak
Pfarrberg
Viewpoint
Sägmühlteich
Reservoir
Laufbach-Wasserfall
Waterfall
Lochfelsen
Peak
Kleiner Lautenfelsen
Peak
Aussichtspunkt Galgenbusch
Viewpoint
Haselgrund Hütte
Hut
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Explore this 27.0-mile point-to-point trail near Gernsbach, Baden-Wuerttemberg. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 13 h 41 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking and hiking, 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 Gernsbacher Loop?
Expected weather for Gernsbacher Loop for the next 5 days is:
- Mon, September 21 - 58 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 22 - 63 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 54 degrees/drizzle
- Thu, September 24 - 62 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 70 degrees/clear
Where is Gernsbacher Loop located?
Gernsbacher Loop is a trail located in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park.
How hard is Gernsbacher Loop?
Gernsbacher Loop is considered a hard hike that covers 27 mi, with an elevation gain of 5,692 ft. It takes about 14–15.5 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 Gernsbacher Loop?
Gernsbacher Loop is considered a hard hike that covers 27 mi, with an elevation gain of 5,692 ft. It takes about 14–15.5 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Gernsbacher Loop a point to point trail?
Gernsbacher Loop is a point to point trail that covers 27 mi, with an elevation gain of 5,692 ft. It takes about 14–15.5 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 Gernsbacher Loop?
Gernsbacher Loop is a point to point trail that covers 27 mi, with an elevation gain of 5,692 ft. It takes about 14–15.5 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 Gernsbacher Loop?
Dogs may be allowed on Gernsbacher Loop. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Gernsbacher Loop?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Gernsbacher Loop.
How busy is Gernsbacher Loop?
According to trailgoers, Gernsbacher Loop is usually busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Gernsbacher Loop.
Are there scenic views at Gernsbacher Loop?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Gernsbacher Loop features multiple scenic viewpoints. Some of the viewpoints include Lautenfelsen, Pfarrberg, and Aussichtspunkt Galgenbusch.
Are there waterfalls at Gernsbacher Loop?
Yes, Gernsbacher Loop has a scenic view of Laufbach-Wasserfall.
Is backpacking allowed at Gernsbacher Loop?
Backpacking is allowed on Gernsbacher Loop. 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 Gernsbacher Loop?
Yes, Gernsbacher Loop is a forest trail in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Gernsbacher Loop?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Gernsbacher Loop, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Gernsbacher Loop?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Gernsbacher Loop in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Is Gernsbacher Loop rocky?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Gernsbacher Loop includes rocky terrain. Watch your footing and wear footwear with good traction.
Last updated on September 20, 2026 at 2:15 am GMT+0