Napoleon-Steig
67% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
7.2miLength
1,328ftElevation gain
3.5–4hrEstimated time
Loop
Certified premium hiking trail in the Palatinate Forest Nature Park near Bruchweiler-Bärenbach, Rhineland-Palatinate.
This Felsenland tour is a certified premium hiking trail - awarded by the German Hiking Institute eV The impressive route leads on natural paths through an impressive rocky landscape with great views.
The first station is the 500 meter long rock formation Retschelfelsen. From there a path leads to the newly developed Eisenbahnfelsen with their unusual formations and erosion in the red sandstone. Other special features of this route are the Rauhbergfelsen and the Reinigshofquelle with its wonderfully fresh and drinkable spring water. Above the Aue you will find the Napoleon Rock. After a stop at the Palatinate Forest club hut "Am Schmalstein" (note opening times), there is one last climb to be overcome before it goes back down through the Wöllmersbachtal to Bruchweiler-Bärenbach.
Highlights of the hike:
- Admire the unusual shape of Napoleon Rock
- Enjoy spring water from the Reinigshofquelle
- Hiking through the beautiful Wöllmersbachtal
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Saarturm
Cliff
Reinighofquelle
Spring
Rauhberg
Peak
Kaiserslauterer Hütte DAV
Hut
Westlicher Dretschfels
Cliff
Eisenbahn
Peak
Am Knopf
Peak
Eisenbahnfelsen
Viewpoint
WH 14a
Ruins
WH 13
Ruins
WH21
Ruins
WH 16
Ruins
WH 18
Ruins
WH 19
Ruins
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Experience this 7.2-mile loop trail near Bruchweiler-Bärenbach, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 29 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
What is the expected weather this week for Napoleon-Steig?
Expected weather for Napoleon-Steig for the next 5 days is:
- Mon, September 21 - 67 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 22 - 70 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 68 degrees/drizzle
- Thu, September 24 - 70 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 74 degrees/clear
Where is Napoleon-Steig located?
Napoleon-Steig is a trail located in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve.
How hard is Napoleon-Steig?
Napoleon-Steig is considered a moderate hike that covers 7.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,328 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Napoleon-Steig?
Napoleon-Steig is considered a moderate hike that covers 7.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,328 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Napoleon-Steig a loop?
Napoleon-Steig is a loop trail that covers 7.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,328 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 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 Napoleon-Steig?
Napoleon-Steig is a loop trail that covers 7.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,328 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 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 Napoleon-Steig?
Dogs may be allowed on Napoleon-Steig. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Napoleon-Steig?
Napoleon-Steig is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Napoleon-Steig?
According to trailgoers, Napoleon-Steig is usually busy. Napoleon-Steig is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there scenic views at Napoleon-Steig?
Yes, Eisenbahnfelsen is located on Napoleon-Steig.
Are there wildflowers at Napoleon-Steig?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Napoleon-Steig, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Napoleon-Steig?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Napoleon-Steig in Palatinate Forest-Vosges du Nord Biosphere Reserve. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 21, 2026 at 3:01 pm GMT+0