Franconian Mountain Trail Stage 12: Fichtelberg - Goldkronach

This route is stage 12 of the Fränkischer Gebirgsweg, a long-distance trail in Bavaria; this specific segment starts in Fichtelberg and ends in Goldkronach. The path leads from the winter sports resort of Fichtelberg through the high forests of the central Fichtel Mountains, heading toward the scenic Fichtelnaab source. The itinerary climbs toward the summit of the Ochsenkopf, the second-highest peak in the range, featuring the Asenturm observation tower with its panoramic views, before descending through the historic gold-mining district toward the town of Goldkronach. Overnight stays are available in hotels, traditional guesthouses, and specialized hikers' accommodations in Fichtelberg, Warmensteinach, or Goldkronach, as wild camping is strictly prohibited throughout the Fichtelgebirge Nature Park. Water is reliably available in the towns at each end and at the mountain inns on the Ochsenkopf, but a sufficient supply should be carried for the long forested descents. Both trailheads are connected to the regional bus network with connections to Bayreuth; schedules are available at vgn.de. The Fränkischer Gebirgsweg is a 428 km (266 miles) premium trail running from Untereichenstein to Hersbruck, typically completed in 21 to 22 stages.