4.6
(18863)
67,675
hikers
1,086
hikes
Hiking around Dam Schmalwasser offers diverse landscapes within the Thuringian Forest. The region is characterized by the central Schmalwasser Reservoir, which provides a scenic backdrop for many trails. Features include the Röllchen Gorge nature reserve and the Walsbach Valley, with varied terrain that includes ascents, descents, and gravel sections.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.4
(13)
53
hikers
5.03km
01:26
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(8)
53
hikers
7.95km
02:16
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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1
hikers
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
2.0
(1)
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
2.10km
00:35
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Playful rock sculptures, very lovingly designed.
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The "Räubertisch" hut is located at the start of the reservoir loop trail. "Räubertisch" will reopen at Pentecost 2025 – offering bratwurst, beer, cake, and a lovingly redesigned outdoor area.
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The Marderbach stream meanders along the rock face of the Maderbach gorge.
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Simply wonderful
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A dam like this has something special, I really like the circular hikes 👍
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Truly fantastic. Beautiful hut with a wide selection of food and drinks. The location couldn't have been better chosen. Surrounded by rocks, the Marderbach stream flows alongside the campsite, where children can play carefree in the water. There's also a Kneipp pool and a few hammocks. Right next to the hut and the campsite is the entrance to the Marderbach Gorge. A truly beautiful area. I only happened to pass by because I extended my hike a bit and wanted to visit the Marderbach Gorge. Highly recommended.
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Since June, there's been a lovely snack bar here, the Räubertisch! It's an ideal starting point or destination for a hike. The snack bar is open Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. From there, you can head to the Marderbach Gorge, the new dam, the old dam, the Falkenstein, or simply enjoy nature.
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The Dam Schmalwasser region offers a vast network of over 1100 hiking routes. These include a diverse range of options, with nearly 500 easy trails, over 500 moderate paths, and close to 100 more challenging routes, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
Yes, there are many easy and family-friendly options. For a gentle introduction, consider the Marderbach Gorge – Marderbach Stream loop from Tambach-Dietharz, an easy 5.1 km trail that explores the scenic Marderbach Gorge. Another accessible choice is the Eisbrunnen Spring – View of the Schmalwasser Dam loop from Tambach-Dietharz, which is 6.7 km and offers lovely views.
The region is rich in natural beauty, centered around the picturesque Schmalwasser Reservoir, also known as the Tambacher Meer. You'll encounter the designated nature reserve of the Röllchen Gorge, the tranquil Walsbach Valley, and varied terrain including ascents, descents, and gravel sections. The area is often described as having a 'pure Norway feeling' due to its stunning natural surroundings.
Yes, circular walks are a popular way to experience the area. A prominent option is the circular hike around the Schmalwasser Reservoir itself, which is approximately 13.8 km and offers continuous scenic beauty. You can also explore routes like the Schmalwasser Dam – View of Schmalwasser Dam loop from Tambach-Dietharz, a moderate 8.1 km path that provides excellent views of the dam and reservoir.
Hikers can enjoy several stunning viewpoints. The Salweidewand Shelter offers wonderful views of the reservoir. The Stummelberg Rest Area provides vistas of the reservoir and the distant Inselsberg, while the Meister-Eckhart Viewpoint offers more panoramic scenes. For an insider tip, the Brandfelsen provides exceptional views of the Schmalwasser Dam and the Nadelöhr, complete with benches for a picnic.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 18,000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the stunning views of the reservoir, and the well-maintained trail network that caters to various difficulty levels. The 'pure Norway feeling' of the natural surroundings is frequently highlighted.
Yes, the Marderbach Gorge is a notable feature in the area. You can hike through it on the easy Marderbach Gorge – Marderbach Stream loop from Tambach-Dietharz. Another route that includes this area is the moderate Robber's table" hut – Marderbach Gorge loop from Tambach-Dietharz, which is 7.7 km long.
The hiking trails around Dam Schmalwasser feature varied terrain. You can expect both ascents and descents, as well as sections with gravel. Hikers should be sure-footed, especially on some of the more challenging paths, to comfortably navigate the diverse ground conditions.
Yes, the region features several natural points of interest. Besides the Schmalwasser Dam itself, you can find Manni's Rock at Nadelöhr and enjoy the View of the Schmalwasser Reservoir Below Nadelöhr, which are popular spots for hikers.
Absolutely. Many trails offer excellent views of the dam and reservoir. The Schmalwasser Dam – View of Schmalwasser Dam loop from Tambach-Dietharz is specifically designed to showcase these vistas. Additionally, the View of the Schmalwasser Dam is a highlight you can encounter on various routes.
Yes, you can explore the area around the Falkenstein rock formation. The Falkenstein and the Lake – Falkenstein Rock Formation loop from Thuringian Forest is a moderate 5.35 km hike that takes you through this scenic part of the region.


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