Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark
10.7miLength
1,614ftElevation gain
5.5–6hrEstimated time
Point to point
This route follows stage 5 of the Westweg, a long-distance trail starting at the Alexanderschanze and ending at the Harkhof. The path follows a quiet, forested ridge line overlooking the Renchtal, leading past the Bauernkopf viewpoint, the Graseck junction, and the Hildahütte shelter. It traverses the Lettstädter Höhe before passing the deeply carved Glaswaldsee tarn and the Klagstein rock formation. Overnight stays are accommodated in rooms at the remote Berggasthof Hark; wild camping is strictly prohibited along this section. Hikers must pack a water filter to safely treat surface water from natural springs between stops. Both trailheads are accessible via public transit, including regional buses at Alexanderschanze, with schedules available at https://www.bahn.de. The Westweg is a long-distance trail, typically completed in 12 stages.
This text has been translated.
Part of a multi-day route
Westweg (West)
Top sights
Glaswaldseeblick
Viewpoint
Lettstädter Hütte
Weather shelter
Hilda-Hütte
Weather shelter
Wolftalblick
Viewpoint
Lettstädter Höhe
Peak
Freiersberger Tor
Attraction
Hahnenkopf
Peak
Cord reel
Peak
Jägerbrünnele
Spring
Peasant's Head
Peak
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
Beat the crowds with weekly and monthly trail activity data from our community
Adventure starts in the app
Offline maps, navigation, and conditions — all in one place
Top trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Enjoy this 10.7-mile point-to-point trail near Freudenstadt, Baden-Wuerttemberg. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 16 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 Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark?
Expected weather for Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark for the next 5 days is:
- Mon, September 21 - 63 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 22 - 65 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 58 degrees/clear
- Thu, September 24 - 64 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 74 degrees/clear
Where is Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark located?
Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark is a trail located in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park.
How hard is Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark?
Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark is considered a hard hike that covers 10.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,614 ft. It takes about 5.5–6 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 Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark?
Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark is considered a hard hike that covers 10.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,614 ft. It takes about 5.5–6 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark a point to point trail?
Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark is a point to point trail that covers 10.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,614 ft. It takes about 5.5–6 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 Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark?
Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark is a point to point trail that covers 10.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,614 ft. It takes about 5.5–6 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 Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark?
Dogs may be allowed on Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark.
How busy is Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark?
According to trailgoers, Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark is usually busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark.
Are there scenic views at Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark features multiple scenic viewpoints. Some of the viewpoints include Glaswaldseeblick and Wolftalblick.
Is backpacking allowed at Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark?
Backpacking is allowed on Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark. 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 Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark?
Yes, Westweg Stage 5: Alexanderschanze - Hark is a forest trail in Central/North Black Forest Nature Park.
Last updated on September 21, 2026 at 4:33 am GMT+0