Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau
8.5miLength
2,293ftElevation gain
4.5–5hrEstimated time
Point to point
Scenic Rennsteigleiter route in the footsteps of Goethe, Thuringia.
This beautiful route along the Rennsteig traces the footsteps of the poet and naturalist Goethe. The start is at the Ilmenau Rennsteig-Leiter town portal. The route initially heads westwards and crosses various hiking trails that also lead through the Thuringian Forest Nature Park. The Kickelhahn mountain massif offers particularly magnificent views over the Ilm valley. Fresh spring water can be enjoyed at the Marienquelle spring. At Schwalbenstein, Goethe fans have the poet in mind when he wrote the play "Ephigenia" here. This tranquil natural setting also breathes history.
At the destination, there is a beer garden for refreshments and the Waldhotel for overnight stays. You can continue your journey from the "Schmücke" bus stop.
Highlights:
- Goethe town of Ilmenau with Goethe town museum
- Massif of the Kickelhahn
- Schwalbenstein
- Ilm valley
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Emmastein
Peak
Sachsenstein
Peak
Heusingersches Stift
Building
Berthaquelle
Spring
grünes herz Aussicht
Viewpoint
Marienquelle
Spring
Hirschgrund
Valley
Spielmannsleite
Peak
Sturmheide
Peak
Heidelberg
Peak
Hangeberg
Peak
Steingrund
Valley
Leimbühl
Peak
Aschbach
Peak
Großer Rödel
Peak
Kickelhahnblick
Picnic site
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Discover this 8.5-mile point-to-point trail near Ilmenau, Thuringia. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 10 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are April through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau?
Expected weather for Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau for the next 5 days is:
- Sat, September 19 - 58 degrees/showers
- Sun, September 20 - 56 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 21 - 53 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 22 - 59 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 61 degrees/clear
Where is Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau located?
Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau is a trail located in Thuringian Forest Nature Park.
How hard is Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau?
Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,293 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 Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau?
Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,293 ft. It takes about 4.5–5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau a point to point trail?
Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau is a point to point trail that covers 8.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,293 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 Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau?
Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau is a point to point trail that covers 8.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,293 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 Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau?
Dogs may be allowed on Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau.
How busy is Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau?
According to trailgoers, Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau is usually somewhat busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau.
Are there scenic views at Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau?
Yes, grünes herz Aussicht is located on Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau.
Are there forests at Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau?
Yes, Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau is a forest trail in Thuringian Forest Nature Park.
Are there wildflowers at Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Rennsteig-Leiter Ilmenau, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on September 19, 2026 at 12:16 am GMT+0