Elmstein and Esthal
9.4miLength
1,699ftElevation gain
4.5–5hrEstimated time
Loop
Charming circular hike from the Naturfreundehaus Elmstein, Rhineland-Palatinate.
The hike begins at the Naturfreundehaus Elmstein and leads through the hilly landscape of the Palatinate Forest. From the starting point, head in the direction of Esthal, where you can stop for refreshments. From Esthal it goes on forest paths along the gold fountain and the thick oak to Elmstein. From Elmstein it's finally back to the starting point.
Highlights:
- Idyllic forest paths
- Gold Fountain
- Thick oak
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Naturfreundehaus Elmstein
Caravan site
Ritterstein 107 "Wolfsgrube"
Attraction
Ritterstein 118 "Dicke Eiche 600 Schr."
Attraction
Dorfbrunnen
Attraction
Mühlbrunner Klause
Reservoir
Paul-Selbach-Ruh
Picnic site
Nebelsbrunnen
Spring
Goldbrunnen
Spring
Cognac Brunnen
Spring
Dicke Eiche
Attraction
Ritterstein 119 "Oak"
Attraction
Naturfreundehaus Elmstein
Alpine hut
Finster Eck
Peak
Top sights
Naturfreundehaus Elmstein
Caravan site
Ritterstein 107 "Wolfsgrube"
Attraction
Ritterstein 118 "Dicke Eiche 600 Schr."
Attraction
Dorfbrunnen
Attraction
Mühlbrunner Klause
Reservoir
Paul-Selbach-Ruh
Picnic site
Nebelsbrunnen
Spring
Goldbrunnen
Spring
Cognac Brunnen
Spring
Dicke Eiche
Attraction
Ritterstein 119 "Oak"
Attraction
Naturfreundehaus Elmstein
Alpine hut
Finster Eck
Peak
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Check out this 9.4-mile loop trail near Elmstein, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 28 min to complete. This is a popular trail for 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 Elmstein and Esthal?
Expected weather for Elmstein and Esthal for the next 5 days is:
- Sun, September 20 - 65 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 21 - 65 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 22 - 69 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 65 degrees/clear
- Thu, September 24 - 70 degrees/clear
Where is Elmstein and Esthal located?
Elmstein and Esthal is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Elmstein and Esthal?
Elmstein and Esthal is considered a moderate hike that covers 9.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,699 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Elmstein and Esthal?
Elmstein and Esthal is considered a moderate hike that covers 9.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,699 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Elmstein and Esthal a loop?
Elmstein and Esthal is a loop trail that covers 9.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,699 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 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 Elmstein and Esthal?
Elmstein and Esthal is a loop trail that covers 9.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,699 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 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 Elmstein and Esthal?
Dogs may be allowed on Elmstein and Esthal. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Elmstein and Esthal?
Elmstein and Esthal is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Elmstein and Esthal?
According to trailgoers, Elmstein and Esthal is usually somewhat busy. Elmstein and Esthal is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there forests at Elmstein and Esthal?
Yes, Elmstein and Esthal is a forest trail in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
Are there wildflowers at Elmstein and Esthal?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Elmstein and Esthal, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Elmstein and Esthal?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Elmstein and Esthal in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 10, 2026 at 3:03 am GMT+0