Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring
100% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
9.2miLength
2,208ftElevation gain
4.5–5hrEstimated time
Point to point
This route is stage 3 of the Soonwaldsteig, a long-distance trail in Rhineland-Palatinate, starting in the Simmerbach Valley and ending at the Ellerspring parking area. The path features a steep climb over quartzite scree to the Großer Soon ridge, offering views from the Henau quarry. Key highlights include the climbable Koppenstein ruins and the Alteburg observation tower set within vast beech forests.
Overnight stays are possible at the Alteburg trekking camp with a prior reservation; otherwise, camping is prohibited. Sure-footedness is required for the rugged ridge sections. No reliable water sources exist on the ridge, so hikers must carry full supplies from the valley. Both ends are accessible by bus via the B 421 and L 108, schedules at https://www.rnn.info or https://www.bahn.de.https://www.rnn.info oder https://www.bahn.de.
For the full route and all stages, see https://www.alltrails.com/lists/soonwaldsteig - Official AllTrails List.
This text has been translated.
Part of a multi-day route
Soonwaldsteig
Top sights
Burg Koppenstein
Castle
Kellenbach
River
Bergfried Koppenstein
Castle
Alteburg
Peak
Alteburgturm
Viewpoint
Keltische Wallanlage
Archaeological site
Koppenstein
Peak
Kühjakobsbrunnen
Spring
Aussichtskanzel Alter Steinbruch
Viewpoint
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Explore this 9.2-mile point-to-point trail near Gehlweiler, Rhineland-Palatine. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 21 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and 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 Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Expected weather for Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring for the next 5 days is:
- Thu, September 24 - 71 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 77 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 79 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 82 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 28 - 81 degrees/clear
Where is Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring located?
Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring is a trail located in Soonwald-Nahe Nature Park.
How hard is Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring is considered a hard hike that covers 9.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,208 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 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 Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring is considered a hard hike that covers 9.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,208 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring a point to point trail?
Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring is a point to point trail that covers 9.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,208 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 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 Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring is a point to point trail that covers 9.2 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,208 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 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 Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Dogs may be allowed on Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
According to trailgoers, Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring is usually somewhat busy. Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there rivers at Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Yes, Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring is near Kellenbach.
Are there scenic views at Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring features multiple scenic viewpoints. Some of the viewpoints include Alteburgturm and Aussichtskanzel Alter Steinbruch.
Is camping allowed at Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Camping is allowed on Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring in Soonwald-Nahe Nature Park. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Is backpacking allowed at Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Backpacking is allowed on Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring. 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 Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Yes, Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring is a forest trail in Soonwald-Nahe Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Soonwaldsteig Stage 3: Simmerbachtal - Ellerspring in Soonwald-Nahe Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 24, 2026 at 12:51 am GMT+0