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Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf

Caution
·
8.7miLength
1,929ftElevation gain
4.5–5hrEstimated time
Point to point
• Section of the Kohlichtgraben is impassable: The marked section of Kohlichtgraben is impassable due to fallen trees. There is currently no prospect of the situation being resolved in the near future. For more information and suggested detours, visit: https://nationalpark-saechsische-schweiz.de/warnungen/wanderweg-im-kohlichtgraben-derzeit-unpassierbar This route is stage 3 of the Malerweg, a long-distance hiking trail through the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. This section leads from the castle town of Hohnstein to Altendorf. Highlights include the famous Brandaussicht viewpoint, offering sweeping views over the Polenztal valley, and the descent via 800 steps into the Tiefen Grund. The trail continues through the wild and romantic Kohlichtgraben and along the Sebnitz River to the end of the stage. Overnight stays are available at guesthouses in Altendorf; camping is strictly prohibited in the national park. Drinking water sources are limited, so you should stock up in Hohnstein or Waitzdorf. Both towns are connected to the regional bus network; schedules are available at https://www.vvo-online.de. For the complete route and all stages, see https://www.alltrails.com/lists/malerweg - Official AllTrails List.
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Part of a multi-day route
Malerweg [CLOSED]
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Dog-friendly
Hiking
Backpacking
Forests
Rivers
Views
Wildflowers
Wildlife
Historic sites

Popular times

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Frequently asked questions

What’s helpful to know about this trail?

Discover this 8.7-mile point-to-point trail near Hohnstein, Saxony. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 30 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.

What is the expected weather this week for Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

Expected weather for Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf for the next 5 days is:
  • Sun, September 20 - 59 degrees/drizzle
  • Mon, September 21 - 56 degrees/clear
  • Tue, September 22 - 60 degrees/clear
  • Wed, September 23 - 59 degrees/showers
  • Thu, September 24 - 58 degrees/drizzle

Where is Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf located?

Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf is a trail located in Saxon Switzerland National Park.

How hard is Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,929 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.

What is the elevation gain for Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,929 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.

Is Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf a point to point trail?

Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf is a point to point trail that covers 8.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,929 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 Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf is a point to point trail that covers 8.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,929 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 Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf. Double check regulations about going off leash.

When is the best time of year to hike Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.

How busy is Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

According to trailgoers, Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf is usually very busy. Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.

Are there scenic views at Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

Yes, according to trailgoers, Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf features multiple scenic viewpoints. Some of the viewpoints include Ritterfelsen, Waitzdorfer Aussicht, and Liliensteinblick.

Are there rivers at Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

Yes, Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf is near Sebnitz.

Is backpacking allowed at Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

Backpacking is allowed on Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf. 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 Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

Yes, Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf is a forest trail in Saxon Switzerland National Park.

Are there wildflowers at Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf, though the specific types can vary from month to month.

Is there wildlife at Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf?

Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Malerweg Stage 3: Hohnstein - Altendorf in Saxon Switzerland National Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 18, 2026 at 11:21 pm GMT+0