King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle
50% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
9.2miLength
718ftElevation gain
3.5–4hrEstimated time
Loop
Exciting loop in the Schwarzach-Durchbruch nature reserve, Bavaria.
The varied route leads to the Schwarzach-Durchbruch and offers pure adventure, water and nature! The trail starts in Röthenbach near St. Wolfgang, at a car park near lock 63, and leads through a long, wildly romantic river valley with waterfalls, famous caves and bizarre rock formations. After crossing locks and trough bridges, the route reaches the Schwarzachschlucht gorge, near which there is also a picturesque cycle path. Forest taverns and beer gardens invite to stop for refreshments along the way.
Highlights:
- King Ludwig Canal
- Historic castles: Kugelhammer, Faber and Petz'sches Schloss
- Canal bridge over the Schwarzach
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Gustav-Adolf-Höhle
Cave
Karlshöhle
Cave
Schwarzachklamm
Attraction
Brückkanal
Attraction
Schloss Kugelhammer
Castle
Petz'sches Schloß
Castle
Saturn V
Attraction
Faberschloß
Castle
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?
Explore this 9.2-mile loop trail near Wendelstein, Bavaria. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 22 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and trail running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
What is the expected weather this week for King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle?
Expected weather for King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle for the next 5 days is:
- Mon, September 21 - 58 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 22 - 63 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 62 degrees/showers
- Thu, September 24 - 62 degrees/drizzle
- Fri, September 25 - 72 degrees/clear
Where is King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle located?
King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle is a trail located in Naturschutzgebiet Schwarzach-Durchbruch.
How hard is King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle?
King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle is considered a moderate hike that covers 9.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 718 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle?
King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle is considered a moderate hike that covers 9.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 718 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle a loop?
King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle is a loop trail that covers 9.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 718 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 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 King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle?
King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle is a loop trail that covers 9.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 718 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 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 King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle?
Dogs may be allowed on King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle?
King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle?
According to trailgoers, King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle is usually busy. King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Is there running at King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle?
Yes, trailgoers have said that King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle is good for running. This trail covers 9.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 718 ft.
Are there forests at King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle?
Yes, King Ludwig Canal - Schwarzach - Petz Castle is a forest trail in Naturschutzgebiet Schwarzach-Durchbruch.
Last updated on September 20, 2026 at 1:15 am GMT+0