Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn
100% of reviewers say this trail is strenuous
14.4miLength
1,801ftElevation gain
6.5–7hrEstimated time
Point to point
This route follows stage 6 of the Rennsteig, connecting Friedrichshöhe with Spechtsbrunn on a diverse section. From the slate-roofed houses of Friedrichshöhe, the trail leads via Limbach to Bernhardsthal, where a natural swimming lake offers a perfect rest stop. Passing through Neuhaus am Rennweg—home to Thuringia's highest train station—the path continues via Ernsthal and the Frankenwaldblick viewpoint to the Brand mountain inn and finally Spechtsbrunn. Overnight stays are available at the "Am Rennsteig" guesthouse in Spechtsbrunn or the Schieferhof in Neuhaus; wild camping is prohibited. Potable water and refreshments can be found at the Limbach ice cream café and the Rennsteigbaude. Public transport is accessible via Neuhaus station or buses in Spechtsbrunn; details at https://www.bahn.de.
For the full route and all stages, see https://www.alltrails.com/lists/rennsteig - Official AllTrails List.
This text has been translated.
Part of a multi-day route
Rennsteig
Top sights
Sandberg
Peak
Schelers Ruh'
Picnic site
Dreistromstein
Hut
Rolling head
Peak
Saarberg
Peak
Am Rennsteig
Weather shelter
Am Alsbachberg
Weather shelter
Hoher Schuss
Peak
Roter Berg
Peak
Igelshieb
Weather shelter
Triniusblick
Viewpoint
Petersberg
Peak
Rattelsberg
Peak
Wanderhütten an der Rennsteigbaude
Alpine hut
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Enjoy this 14.4-mile point-to-point trail near Masserberg, Thuringia. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 12 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.
What is the expected weather this week for Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn?
Expected weather for Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn for the next 5 days is:
- Sat, September 19 - 57 degrees/przelotne deszcze
- Sun, September 20 - 55 degrees/bezchmurnie
- Mon, September 21 - 52 degrees/bezchmurnie
- Tue, September 22 - 59 degrees/bezchmurnie
- Wed, September 23 - 60 degrees/bezchmurnie
Where is Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn located?
Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn is a trail located in Thuringian Forest Nature Park.
How hard is Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn?
Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn is considered a hard hike that covers 14.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,801 ft. It takes about 6.5–7 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 Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn?
Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn is considered a hard hike that covers 14.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,801 ft. It takes about 6.5–7 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn a point to point trail?
Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn is a point to point trail that covers 14.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,801 ft. It takes about 6.5–7 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 Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn?
Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn is a point to point trail that covers 14.4 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,801 ft. It takes about 6.5–7 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 Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn?
Dogs may be allowed on Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn?
Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
How busy is Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn?
According to trailgoers, Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn is usually busy. Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Are there scenic views at Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn?
Yes, Triniusblick is located on Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn.
Is backpacking allowed at Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn?
Backpacking is allowed on Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn. 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 Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn?
Yes, Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn is a forest trail in Thuringian Forest Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Rennsteig Stage 6: Friedrichshöhe - Spechtsbrunn in Thuringian Forest Nature Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 17, 2026 at 5:08 am GMT+0