Kirnitzschtal, Hickelhöhle und Richterschlüchte

• Danger posed by deadwood in the lower part of the mountain trail: There is an increased risk of falling trees in the lower part of the mountain trail due to standing deadwood. We recommend taking the Erlsgrund and Winterbergstraße routes instead. Areas with a lot of standing deadwood should be avoided, especially in windy, rainy, or snowy conditions. Further information and a marked detour can be found at: https://nationalpark-saechsische-schweiz.de/warnungen/bergsteig Popular hiking trail in Saxon Switzerland, Saxony. This hike leads through the core zone of Saxon Switzerland. Highlights of the route are the Great Winterberg, the Arsenal, the Kirnitzschtal, the Hickel Cave and the wildly romantic Richterschluchte. It begins at the paid parking lot in Schmilka with a steep ascent over the mountain path in the direction of Großer Winterberg. Once there, a magnificent view rewards the ascent. The Roßsteig leads past the old arsenal, which is open seasonally, to the picturesque Kirschnitztal, where the route follows the river of the same name for a good stretch. Next it goes to the Hickelhöhe where a detour to the Hickelkopf is worthwhile. Finally, it goes a bit along the Großer Zschand to the next natural highlight of this route - the Richterschlüchte with an optional visit to the Richtergrotte. The way there is quite sandy and sometimes you have to scramble a bit. Highlights of the route: - Beautiful views - Varied natural landscapes - Local flora and fauna