Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz
8.2miLength
1,578ftElevation gain
4–4.5hrEstimated time
Point to point
This route is the first stage of the Franconian Mountain Trail, a long-distance hiking trail in Bavaria; this section begins in Untereichenstein (near Blankenstein) and ends in Selbitz. The trail starts at the hiking hub where the Franconian Forest, the Thuringian Forest, and the Fichtel Mountains meet, and leads through the picturesque Selbitz Valley. The route runs along the “Green Belt” at the former inner-German border and follows quiet meadow paths and forest trails through Issigau and Rodesgrün. Overnight accommodations are available at inns and guesthouses in Issigau, Rodesgrün, or Selbitz, as wild camping is strictly prohibited in the Franconian Forest Nature Park. Water is reliably available in the towns along the route, but you should carry a supply with you on the sections through open countryside. Both stage locations are connected to the regional rail and bus network, with a train station located in Selbitz; schedules are available at vgn.de. The Franconian Mountain Trail is a 428-kilometer-long quality trail from Untereichenstein to Hersbruck, which is typically hiked in 21 to 22 stages.
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Part of a multi-day route
Franconian Mountain Trail
Top sights
Selbitz
River
Burgruine Blankenberg
Castle
Schwarzer Teich
Pond
Camping Schloss Issigau
Campsite
Papierfabrik Blankenberg
Attraction
Frankenwaldblick
Viewpoint
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Top trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Discover this 8.2-mile point-to-point trail near Issigau, Bavaria. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 52 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are March through November.
What is the expected weather this week for Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz?
Expected weather for Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz for the next 5 days is:
- Mon, September 21 - 57 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 22 - 61 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 60 degrees/showers
- Thu, September 24 - 59 degrees/foggy
- Fri, September 25 - 69 degrees/clear
Where is Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz located?
Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz is a trail located in Franconian Forest Nature Park.
How hard is Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz?
Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,578 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 Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz?
Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,578 ft. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz a point to point trail?
Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz is a point to point trail that covers 8.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,578 ft. It takes about 4–4.5 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 Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz?
Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz is a point to point trail that covers 8.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,578 ft. It takes about 4–4.5 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 Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz?
Dogs may be allowed on Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz?
March to November is the most popular time of year to visit Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz.
How busy is Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz?
According to trailgoers, Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz is usually somewhat busy. March to November is the most popular time of year to visit Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz.
Are there rivers at Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz?
Yes, Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz is near Selbitz.
Are there scenic views at Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz?
Yes, Frankenwaldblick is located on Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz.
Is backpacking allowed at Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz?
Backpacking is allowed on Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz. 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.
Is Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz is partially paved.
Are there forests at Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz?
Yes, Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz is a forest trail in Franconian Forest Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 1: Unterreichenstein - Selbitz, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on September 21, 2026 at 1:05 am GMT+0