HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East
100% of reviewers say this trail is hard
422.7miLength
86,568ftElevation gain
24hr+Estimated time
Point to point
Popular long-distance hiking trail between the Vosges and Lake Geneva, France/Switzerland.
The long-distance hiking trail HexaTrak explores the varied landscapes of France over a distance of 3000 km. The first stage is a good 670 km long and runs through the low mountain range region, which is characterized by one of the world's highest density of castles per square kilometer.
First you hike through the Northern Vosges Regional Park, where, among other things, the Fleckenstein, Windstein and Lichtenberg castles as well as some fantastic vantage points await. You continue through the Ballons des Vosges Regional Park, which includes the striking peaks and pretty Alsatian villages of the High Vosges. Towards the end of the first HexaTrek stage you reach the Doubs Regional Park, which is characterized by the wild gorges of the Doubs. From here you continue to Switzerland, where the hike ends at Lake Geneva.
Highlights of the hike:
- numerous castles
- viewpoints Krappenfels and Boehmerfelsen
- peaks and villages in the High Vosges
- valley of the Doubs
- waterfall "Saut du Doubs"
- lake Geneva
This text has been translated.
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 422.7-mile point-to-point trail near Schweigen-Rechtenbach, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 211 h 36 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are April through October.
What is the expected weather this week for HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
Expected weather for HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East for the next 5 days is:
- Wed, September 23 - 69 degrees/clear
- Thu, September 24 - 69 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 75 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 82 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 82 degrees/clear
Where is HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East located?
HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is a trail located in Schweigen-Rechtenbach, Rhineland-Palatine, Germany.
How hard is HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is considered a hard hike that covers 422.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 86,568 ft. It takes about 24 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 HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is considered a hard hike that covers 422.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 86,568 ft. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East a point to point trail?
HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is a point to point trail that covers 422.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 86,568 ft. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Point-to-point routes have a different starting point and endpoint. The length of the trail refers to one-way travel on this route. Don't forget to plan for transportation when exploring point-to-point routes!
How long is HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is a point to point trail that covers 422.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 86,568 ft. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Point-to-point routes have a different starting point and endpoint. The length of the trail refers to one-way travel on this route. Don't forget to plan for transportation when exploring point-to-point routes!
Are dogs allowed on HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
Dogs may be allowed on HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East.
How busy is HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
According to trailgoers, HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is usually somewhat busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East.
Is backpacking allowed at HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
Backpacking is allowed on HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East. Backpacking trails are typically longer and are often point-to-point trails. 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 HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East?
Yes, HexaTrek - Stage 1 : The Great East is a forest trail.
Last updated on September 19, 2026 at 10:38 pm GMT+0