The best waterfall hikes and walks around Dam Falkenstein

The Elsenfelsen is part of a striking series of greywacke quartzite formations and characterizes the well-known Grünbacher Felsenweg, along with other striking rocks such as the Wendelstein and the Genesenstein.

Originally, the "Riß", the gorge, was carved into the rock by human hands to allow timber to easily overcome the difference in altitude. Over the centuries, the water has worked its way deeper and deeper into the rocky soil of the Göltzsch Valley. This last section, the Riß Falls, fits charmingly into the surrounding forest landscape. The Riß Falls no longer carry as much water year-round today. However, after heavy rainfall and after the snowmelt, they are particularly beautiful to behold.

Originally built in the 1970s for domestic water supply, the reservoir is now a local recreation area. It is an EU-approved bathing water with a forebay as a children's paddling pool. Additionally, rowing boats can be rented during the summer months. Two snack bars are open in the summer.

The Rissfälle (also spelled Rissfälle) are the only natural waterfalls in the Vogtland region and are located on the border between the districts of Hammerbrücke (municipality of Muldenhammer) and Grünbach.

A striking viewpoint on the trail from Falkenstein to Grünbach. The Lochstein is a popular destination for both locals and visitors. A covered seating area sponsored by the town's residents always invites you to take a break, which is also greatly appreciated by hikers on Felsenweg 3b from Werda. Located in the Vogtland Geo-Environmental Park, the Lochstein is a greywacker quartzite rock – an impressive rock that can be climbed with a view of the Falkenstein town area. However, when climbing, the "Lochstein" is primarily for more experienced climbers because it has been left in its almost pristine state, which is why it is advisable to have a pair of slings, friends, or nuts handy. But even without this challenge, the Lochstein is simply beautiful in any season. (https://www.vogtland-tourismus.de/mobile/de/poi/aussichtspunkt/lochstein-bei-falkenstein-vogtland/23502738 )

Nodic Camp has a total of five cottages, each accommodating four people. The cottages have a living area of 45 m², and all feature a living room with a kitchenette, a bathroom, a hallway, a bedroom with two beds, and another room with a bunk bed. Outside, there is a terrace and a storage room. The camp is located in a largely unspoiled area, surrounded by extensive coniferous forests at an altitude of approximately 800 m above sea level. A small game reserve is located nearby. The animals are very friendly.

On the border between Hammerbrücke and Grünbach lies an old technical monument: the "Oberer Floßgraben" (Upper Floßgraben), also called "Riß" (Risk). Starting in 1571, the Riss was excavated over a length of 4 km. Old chronicles report that it was first used for rafting in 1584. Anyone interested in how rafting was done in ancient times can see it at the annual demonstration rafting event in Muldenberg. (www.floesser-verein.de) At the end of the ditch are the so-called Riß Falls (the only waterfalls in the Vogtland region). Originally, this section of the ditch was carved into the rock by human hands in the shape of a ramp to allow timber to easily overcome this difference in elevation. Over the centuries, the water has worked its way deeper and deeper into the rocky floor of the Göltzsch Valley. This last section, the Riß Falls; blend beautifully into the surrounding forest landscape of the small river Weiße Göltzsch. (https://www.gruenbach.de)

Countless rocks of the Hohen Stein greywacke quartzite range plow the landscape to the left and right of Rock Trails 1 and 2 – these are nameless ones near the Elsenfelsen. The "nameless" ones near the Elsenfelsen nevertheless leave an impression. Whether it's the small Affenstein, Elsenfelsen, Rinnelstein, Genesenstein, or Wendelstein – every rock is worth exploring on this romantic and mystical trail. Each has its own charm or can tell a story: of geological features, legends associated with the rock, or cultural history. (https://www.bergfex.de/sommer/sachsen/touren/wanderung/84561,felsenweg-1--im-zeichen-des-loewenkopfs--felsen-und-geschichte )