Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail
50% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
5.4miLength
1,404ftElevation gain
3–3.5hrEstimated time
Loop
Legendary circular hiking trail in the Palatinate Forest, Rhineland-Palatinate.
The Three Castles Trail starts at the Spangenberg car park (the train station is within walking distance) and leads to the ruins of three hilltop castles. Erfenstein Castle begins soon after the start. We continue to Breitenstein Castle and shortly before the end of the hike, Spangenberg Castle, the oldest of the three ruins, awaits in the Elmstein Valley. You should bring a bit of physical fitness with you, as the hilltop castles can be reached via some quite steep climbs.
Danger! The signage and also the telephone/GPS reception is sometimes poor along the route.
Highlights of the hike:
- Spangenberg Castle (approx. 11th century)
- Breitenstein Castle (13th century)
- Erfenstein Castle (13th century)
- great views of the Esthal
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Stutgarten
Monument
Burg Spangenberg
Castle
Burg Breitenstein
Castle
Ritterstein 113 "R. Breitenstein 500 Schr."
Attraction
Burg Erfenstein
Castle
Burgbrunnen Burg Spangenberg
Spring
Breitensteiner Klause
Reservoir
Historischer Steinbruch
Attraction
Alt-Erfenstein
Attraction
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?
Check out this 5.4-mile loop trail near Frankeneck, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 0 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and trail running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are March through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Expected weather for Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail for the next 5 days is:
- Wed, September 23 - 68 degrees/onbewolkt
- Thu, September 24 - 69 degrees/onbewolkt
- Fri, September 25 - 74 degrees/onbewolkt
- Sat, September 26 - 80 degrees/onbewolkt
- Sun, September 27 - 83 degrees/onbewolkt
Where is Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail located?
Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is considered a moderate hike that covers 5.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,404 ft. It takes about 3–3.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is considered a moderate hike that covers 5.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,404 ft. It takes about 3–3.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail a loop?
Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is a loop trail that covers 5.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,404 ft. It takes about 3–3.5 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 Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is a loop trail that covers 5.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,404 ft. It takes about 3–3.5 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 Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Dogs may be allowed on Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
March to October is the most popular time of year to visit Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail.
How busy is Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
According to trailgoers, Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is usually busy. March to October is the most popular time of year to visit Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail.
Is there running at Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Yes, trailgoers have said that Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail is good for running. This trail covers 5.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,404 ft.
Are there wildflowers at Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Erfenstein: Three Castles Trail, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on September 22, 2026 at 3:21 am GMT+0