Water, Forest and Meadow Trail
71% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
8.7miLength
1,505ftElevation gain
4–4.5hrEstimated time
Loop
Popular Black Forest gourmet trail in the Northern Black Forest, Baden-Württemberg
This route is a certified premium hiking trail ideal for nature lovers and those interested in culture. The circular route starts in the Herman-Hesse town of Calw, leads past Zavelstein and to the castle ruins back to Calw. On partly narrow paths, partly steep, almost alpine climbs, it goes through ancient spruce and beech stands. On a particularly idyllic section, it passes the Rötelbachtal. The sandstone formations, meadow orchards and crocus meadows near Zavelstein also ensure an extremely natural hiking experience.
There are places to stop at the Wanderheim Zavelstein and in Calw; at the starting point, there is a small parking lot, which fills up quickly. Alternatively, there are several multi-story car parks in Calw city center that are subject to a fee.
Highlights of the hike:
- Zavelstein castle ruins
- market square in Calw surrounded by half-timbered houses
- Calwer scaffold
- Rötelbachtal
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Accessible by bus and train
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Top sights
Wölflesbrunnen
Spring
Stubenfelsen
Attraction
Gimpelstein
Viewpoint
Saatschulhütte
Hut
Wanderheim Zavelstein
Alpine hut
Zigeunerberg
Peak
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Try this 8.7-mile loop trail near Calw, Baden-Wuerttemberg. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 4 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and trail running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are January through October.
What are some of the facilities available for Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
There is a small parking lot at the starting point, which fills up quickly. Alternatively, there are several multi-storey car parks in Calw city center that are subject to a fee.
What is the expected weather this week for Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
Expected weather for Water, Forest and Meadow Trail for the next 5 days is:
- Wed, September 23 - 63 degrees/clear
- Thu, September 24 - 66 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 73 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 77 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 81 degrees/clear
Where is Water, Forest and Meadow Trail located?
Water, Forest and Meadow Trail is a trail located in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park.
How hard is Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
Water, Forest and Meadow Trail is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,505 ft. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
Water, Forest and Meadow Trail is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,505 ft. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Water, Forest and Meadow Trail a loop?
Water, Forest and Meadow Trail is a loop trail that covers 8.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,505 ft. It takes about 4–4.5 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 Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
Water, Forest and Meadow Trail is a loop trail that covers 8.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,505 ft. It takes about 4–4.5 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 Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
Dogs may be allowed on Water, Forest and Meadow Trail. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
January to October is the most popular time of year to visit Water, Forest and Meadow Trail.
How busy is Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
According to trailgoers, Water, Forest and Meadow Trail is usually busy. January to October is the most popular time of year to visit Water, Forest and Meadow Trail.
Are there scenic views at Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
Yes, Gimpelstein is located on Water, Forest and Meadow Trail.
Is there running at Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
Yes, trailgoers have said that Water, Forest and Meadow Trail is good for running. This trail covers 8.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,505 ft.
Is Water, Forest and Meadow Trail kid-friendly?
Yes, many trailgoers have described Water, Forest and Meadow Trail as good for kids and families. Kid-friendly trails are typically short, with clearly marked paths and fairly level terrain.
Are there forests at Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
Yes, Water, Forest and Meadow Trail is a forest trail in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Water, Forest and Meadow Trail, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Water, Forest and Meadow Trail?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Water, Forest and Meadow Trail in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 22, 2026 at 4:06 am GMT+0