5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau)
9.7miLength
2,319ftElevation gain
5.5–6hrEstimated time
Loop
Starting from Hirschthal near the French border, this cross-border loop connects five dramatic medieval fortress ruins perched atop sandstone ridges. Winding shaded paths ascend through the dense Wasgau and Northern Vosges forests, revealing ancient rock-hewn steps and cliffside fortifications. Highlights along the way include the high walls of Wegelnburg, the atmospheric ruins of Hohenbourg, Loewenstein, and Froensbourg, as well as the massive sandstone citadel of Château de Fleckenstein.
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Top sights
Schlossberg
Peak
Sindelsberg
Peak
Château du Loewenstein
Castle
Château de Fleckenstein
Castle
Wegelnburg
Castle
Château de Frœnsbourg
Castle
Château de Hohenbourg
Castle
Camping du Fleckenstein
Campsite
Source Maidenbrunnen
Spring
Étang de Fleckenstein
Lake
Château de Loewenstein
Ruins
Fuchsberg
Peak
Engenteich
Peak
Maiblumenkopf
Peak
Hirtsfels
Cliff
Top sights
Schlossberg
Peak
Sindelsberg
Peak
Château du Loewenstein
Castle
Château de Fleckenstein
Castle
Wegelnburg
Castle
Château de Frœnsbourg
Castle
Château de Hohenbourg
Castle
Camping du Fleckenstein
Campsite
Source Maidenbrunnen
Spring
Étang de Fleckenstein
Lake
Château de Loewenstein
Ruins
Fuchsberg
Peak
Engenteich
Peak
Maiblumenkopf
Peak
Hirtsfels
Cliff
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Get to know this 9.7-mile loop trail near Hirschthal, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 13 min to complete. This is a popular trail for camping and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
What is the expected weather this week for 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau)?
Expected weather for 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) for the next 5 days is:
- Fri, September 25 - 79 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 81 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 82 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 28 - 82 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 29 - 82 degrees/clear
Where is 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) located?
5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) is a trail located in Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park.
How hard is 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau)?
5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) is considered a hard hike that covers 9.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,319 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 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau)?
5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) is considered a hard hike that covers 9.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,319 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 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) a loop?
5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) is a loop trail that covers 9.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,319 ft. It takes about 5.5–6 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 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau)?
5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) is a loop trail that covers 9.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,319 ft. It takes about 5.5–6 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 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau)?
Dogs may be allowed on 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau). Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau)?
5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau)?
According to trailgoers, 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) is usually somewhat busy. 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there lakes at 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau)?
Yes, 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) is near Étang de Fleckenstein.
Is camping allowed at 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau)?
Camping is allowed on 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) in Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park. 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 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau)?
Yes, 5-Castle Hike near Hirschthal (Wasgau) is a forest trail in Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park.
Last updated on September 24, 2026 at 3:11 am GMT+0