Top hiking trails – premium routes & insider tips
Which hiking trails are worth it? Hiking is a trend, and on our travels around the world, we've regularly come across hiking routes. We've not only explored nature and sought out places with views, but also discovered trails for those who enjoy hiking. We've also asked our colleagues for their hiking tips and compiled a good collection of trails in Europe and North America that we highly recommend. So lace up yours. walking boots, grab the large backpack and let's go! Discover hiking regions in your neighborhood, in Europe or even in North America.
Here you find out where you can hike in Germany. However, if you are looking for hiking routes throughout Germany, you will find many hiking tips from travel bloggers for both Norddeutschland as well as for Süddeutschland. Alternatively, do you prefer to go hiking in other countries? How about that Wild Pacific Trail on Vancouver Island in Western Canada? These are just a few of the many hikes you'll find in our collection. We hope you enjoy browsing!
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Hiking is a great way to enjoy nature and relax the mind. We believe there is nothing better than exploring the world on foot and experiencing the beauty of the countryside on hiking trails.
Whether you want to hike in the mountains, on the beach or in the forest, there are countless hiking trails to satisfy your wanderlust. We recommend using a map or app with hiking trails to find the best routes in your area.
If you're planning a longer hike, you'll want to make sure you have the right gear. Hiking boots with good support and grip are essential, as are a waterproof jacket and a backpack with plenty of room for water, snacks, and clothing.
While hiking, you should always be alert on the trails and keep an eye on your surroundings. It is also important not to leave the trail and leave no traces. Respect the nature along the hiking trails and the animals that live in them.
Finally, don't get caught up in the hiking fever and take your time. Start with easier trails and gradually progress. This will not only make you safer, but also make your hobby more enjoyable.
Which hiking trails in Germany are particularly beautiful?
These are the best hiking trails awarded the "German Hiking Seal." These trails offer a beautiful experience and meet the highest standards. Here's a selection:
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Airy ridge (Allgäu, Bavaria)
A 10 km long alpine circular trail near Oberstaufen, which has been rated with 101 experience points. Beautiful views and diverse landscapes characterise this trail in the Allgäu out.
Hiking trails in Rhineland-Palatinate
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Ehrbachklamm Dream Loop (Rhineland-Palatinate)
An 8,4 km circular trail in the Hunsrück region, rated 99 experience points. Highlights include the impressive Ehrbach Gorge and nature trails with plenty of variety.
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Dream Loop Baybachklamm (Rhineland-Palatinate)
This 10,5 km circular trail in the Hunsrück region received 96 experience points and leads through the impressive Baybach Gorge with its steep rock faces and streams.
Hiking trails in Saarland
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Dream Loop Rock Trail (Saarland)
A 13,7 km circular trail in the Saar-Hunsrück region, awarded 100 experience points. The trail leads through rocky landscapes and offers numerous natural experiences.
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Litermont Summit Tour (Nalbach, Saarland)
A 9 km circular trail with 96 experience points that leads to the summit of the Litermont and offers beautiful views and diverse landscapes.
Hiking trails in Baden-Württemberg
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Himmelssteig (Bad Peterstal-Griesbach, Baden-Württemberg)
At 10,6 km long and featuring 100 experience points, this trail leads through the picturesque landscape of the Black Forest and offers numerous views.
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DonauWelle Eichfelsen Panorama (Swabian Alb, Baden-Württemberg)
A 14,8 km circular trail offering beautiful views of the Danube Valley and the Swabian Alb.
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Eaves walk Hossinger ladder (Albstadt, Baden-Württemberg)
An 8,7 km circular trail that leads along rocky cliffs and through diverse landscapes.
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Hohenwittlingensteig (Swabian Alb, Baden-Württemberg)
This 6,3 km circular trail offers magnificent views and passes the Hohenwittlingen Castle ruins.
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Gernsbach Round (Gernsbach, Baden-Württemberg)
A 42,7 km circular trail for a longer hike in the northern Black Forest, which can be completed in two to three day stages and has been awarded the German Hiking Seal.
These hiking trails offer a magnificent experience and are ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy the beauty of the German landscape at its finest. For more information and a complete list of certified premium hiking trails, visit the website of the German Hiking Institute. You can find more great hiking trails on Wanderable Germany.
Questions and answers about hiking trails
Which hiking trails in Germany are suitable for beginners?
If you don't have much hiking experience, that's no problem at all. Germany has a wealth of trails that are perfectly manageable, even for beginners. It's best to make sure the trail isn't too steep and is well signposted. Popular routes include the Malerweg (in stages), the Lieserpfad in the Eifel, or easy sections of the Rheinsteig. Many "dream loops" in Saarland and the Hunsrück are also short, well-maintained, and offer great views—without any climbing.
What is a premium hiking trail?
A premium hiking trail is essentially the luxury version of a hiking trail. It is inspected by the German Hiking Institute and receives a "hiking seal" if it meets certain criteria. These include, for example, a varied route, good signage, beautiful nature, views, rest areas, and as little asphalt as possible. So you can see: a lot of attention to detail goes into this. If you want to be sure that your hiking experience will be truly outstanding, then look for premium trails – you can hardly go wrong.
Which hiking trails are particularly suitable for hiking?
Oh, there are so many! If you're looking for nature and tranquility, the Black Forest is fantastic. Or the Eifel – there you'll find truly beautiful rivers, volcanoes, and castle ruins. The Alps are, of course, the classic, but there are also some for advanced hikers. In the Sauerland and Hunsrück, you'll find shorter trails with plenty of variety. And in the Bavarian Forest, you can even climb the "Großer Arber" – there are easy routes there too. Whether you're looking for a relaxing or active holiday, you'll find something to suit you all over Germany.
How do I plan a good hike?
Honestly, preparation is half the battle. Check out the length of the route, the elevation gain, and the weather forecast beforehand. It's best to download the route to your phone (e.g., with Komoot or Outdooractive), pack plenty of water, and wear comfortable shoes. Sticking to premium or quality trails will usually keep you safe. And don't forget: It's not about speed, it's about the trail itself.
Can I also hike with children?
Sure, hiking with kids can be really fun – if the route is right. It's important that the trail isn't too long or steep, and that something exciting happens along the way: animals, water, rocks, observation towers – kids love that. Many regions offer special family hiking trails. Nature trails are also great because they often have games or informational signs built in. And if it takes a little longer – just take an extra break. 😉
When is the best time to hike in Germany?
Spring through fall is ideal. In May and June, everything is in bloom, and it's not yet so hot. In midsummer, forests are pleasantly cool—but remember sunscreen! Autumn is also beautiful, when the leaves change color. Winter hiking is also possible, especially in Bavaria or the Harz Mountains—but you'll need sturdy shoes and sometimes crampons for icy paths.
What do I absolutely need to have with me when hiking?
You don't need a lot, but a few essentials are: sturdy shoes, water, snacks, a weatherproof jacket, a cell phone (preferably with a map), sunscreen, and a small emergency plan in case you get lost. If you're on the road for a longer period, maybe a first aid kit. And honestly: A little chocolate as a reward works wonders.
What you need for a hike
- We definitely recommend comfortable walking shoes for the hiking trails in our collection.
- It is also practical for on the go large backpack in which you store a drink, snack in a lunch box, a jacket as well as small items.
- What you need for a picnic – This allows you to have a picnic on the go, for example, with a view of the surroundings.
- Binoculars – On this hike you can, for example, observe birds and look out for other animals.
- You will definitely be well equipped for hiking with hiking maps and hiking guides.
- Do you have everything? With our hiking checklist You can also easily check this.
- Do you like to travel with the motorhome? There are several campsites in the valley. Our packing list for campers It also helps ensure that you don't forget anything.
- In winter, the hiking trails also offer opportunities for hikes. Our Packing list winter vacation also helps with packing your suitcase for your winter vacation.
- Why is a folding e-bike useful when camping?
Do you also know these hiking trails?
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- Buying a hiking backpack – what you should know before you buy it
- Recipes from all over the world
Source hiking trails: research. In any case, our opinion remains our own.
Text hiking trails: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TWO
Photos of hiking trails: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TWO
Videos: © Copyright Petar Fuchs and TWO
