Ritterstein via Erlenbach
4.3miLength
892ftElevation gain
2–2.5hrEstimated time
Loop
Leisurely loop hike in the upper Erlenbachtal.
The short circular tour starts at the Iggelbach Eschkopf, where there is a car park. From here it leads through the Palatinate Forest to Erlenbach to Ritterstein No. 93 "Hexlerhütte". Knight's stones are markings made of sandstone in the Palatinate Forest, which indicate historically remarkable places with carved inscriptions. The Hexlerhütte is a former farmstead from which the village of Erlenbach developed. The way back leads along the Erlenbach stream of the same name.
---
Accessible by bus and train
This text has been translated.
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?
Try this 4.3-mile loop trail near Leimen, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 10 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and trail running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are April through December. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
What is the expected weather this week for Ritterstein via Erlenbach?
Expected weather for Ritterstein via Erlenbach for the next 5 days is:
- Thu, September 24 - 66 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 74 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 74 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 79 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 28 - 78 degrees/clear
Where is Ritterstein via Erlenbach located?
Ritterstein via Erlenbach is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Ritterstein via Erlenbach?
Ritterstein via Erlenbach is considered a moderate hike that covers 4.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 892 ft. It takes about 2–2.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Ritterstein via Erlenbach?
Ritterstein via Erlenbach is considered a moderate hike that covers 4.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 892 ft. It takes about 2–2.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Ritterstein via Erlenbach a loop?
Ritterstein via Erlenbach is a loop trail that covers 4.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 892 ft. It takes about 2–2.5 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 Ritterstein via Erlenbach?
Ritterstein via Erlenbach is a loop trail that covers 4.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 892 ft. It takes about 2–2.5 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 Ritterstein via Erlenbach?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Ritterstein via Erlenbach, but must remain on a leash.
When is the best time of year to hike Ritterstein via Erlenbach?
April to December is the most popular time of year to visit Ritterstein via Erlenbach.
How busy is Ritterstein via Erlenbach?
According to trailgoers, Ritterstein via Erlenbach is usually somewhat busy. April to December is the most popular time of year to visit Ritterstein via Erlenbach.
Is there running at Ritterstein via Erlenbach?
Yes, trailgoers have said that Ritterstein via Erlenbach is good for running. This trail covers 4.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 892 ft.
Is Ritterstein via Erlenbach kid-friendly?
Yes, many trailgoers have described Ritterstein via Erlenbach as good for kids and families. Kid-friendly trails are typically short, with clearly marked paths and fairly level terrain.
Are there forests at Ritterstein via Erlenbach?
Yes, Ritterstein via Erlenbach is a forest trail in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
Last updated on September 20, 2026 at 3:31 am GMT+0