The best walks and hikes around Schutterwald
4.6
(80)
442
hikers
34
hikes
Hiking around Schutterwald offers diverse terrain situated between the Upper Rhine Plain and the western edge of the Black Forest. The region features varied landscapes, including dense forests, open plains, and the tranquil Schutterwald Quarry Lake. Natural features like the Schutter River and surrounding landscape protection areas contribute to the area's appeal for outdoor activities. Trails often lead through meadows, fields, and the foothills of the Black Forest.
Best hiking trails around Schutterwald
- The most popular hiking route is Poetry by the Lake – Gravel lake in Ortenaukreis loop from Schutterwald, an easy 4.5 miles (7.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 50 minutes to complete, circling the scenic quarry lake.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Gravel lake in Ortenaukreis – Poetry by the Lake loop from Schutterwald, an easy 4.8 miles (7.8 km) path. This route offers views of the lake and surrounding natural areas, often completed in about 1 hour 59 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Poetry by the Lake – Poetry Sign – Schutterwald Quarry Lake loop from Langhurst, a 3.6 miles (5.9 km) trail leading through the lake's perimeter, often completed in about 1 hour 29 minutes.
- Hiking around Schutterwald is defined by its proximity to the Black Forest, the Upper Rhine Plain, and the Schutterwald Quarry Lake. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to various ability levels.
- The routes in Schutterwald are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore Schutterwald's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
4.8
(9)
20
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(12)
22
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
10
hikers
6.63km
01:40
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
8.51km
02:09
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Schutterwald
Tips from the Community
The memorial plaque is currently gone as it was willfully damaged.
1
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A wonderful little swimming lake. At the southern end, there's a pretty beach, a place to stop for refreshments, and—if the kids still have energy—a great indoor playground in the Kiddy Dome.
2
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Emma's Seegarten is a beer garden directly on the Schutterwald quarry lake. Unfortunately not always open.
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The route also goes along dirt roads but is easy to ride. The hut is run by volunteers and is open to everyone
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Schutterwälder Baggersee, there is sometimes quite a crowd here at weekends, even at night.
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I found the story very interesting. For me it was very useful.
1
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Ideal resting place in the middle of the fields between Dundenheim and Höfen. Seats and table available.
1
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there in Schutterwald?
Schutterwald offers a diverse network of over 30 hiking trails, catering to various preferences and skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging routes to explore.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Schutterwald?
The most pleasant time for outdoor activities and hiking in Schutterwald is typically from May to September. During these months, temperatures are comfortably warm, making for ideal conditions to explore the region's trails.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Schutterwald?
Hiking around Schutterwald offers a varied landscape. You can expect trails that traverse the flat plains of the Upper Rhine, dense forests on the edge of the Black Forest, and paths around the tranquil Schutterwald Quarry Lake. Some routes also feature picturesque meadows and fields.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Schutterwald?
Yes, Schutterwald is very welcoming for beginners and families. Out of the over 30 available routes, more than 20 are classified as easy. A great option is the Poetry by the Lake – Poetry Sign – Schutterwald Quarry Lake loop from Langhurst, which is an easy 5.9 km trail around the scenic quarry lake.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Schutterwald?
Yes, Schutterwald features several excellent circular hiking routes. The area is part of the 'Ortenauer Sagenrundwege' (Ortenau Legend Circular Trails), which offer short hikes through meadows, forests, and fields. A popular choice is the S' Maddehisl Shelter loop from Schutterwald, an easy 6.6 km loop.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while hiking in Schutterwald?
While hiking in Schutterwald, you can enjoy the serene Schutterwald Quarry Lake, walk along the River Schutter, and explore parts of the 'Unterwassermatten' nature reserve. An educational forest trail also features a remarkable 150-year-old beech tree. For broader views, Ortenberg Castle offers panoramic vistas of the Kinzig valley and Rhine plain.
Are there any historical or cultural sights near the hiking trails?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore remnants of the Westwall in the forest along some of the 'Ortenauer Sagenrundwege'. A walk through Schutterwald's idyllic town center, with its half-timbered houses, is also recommended. Nearby, the historic town of Gengenbach marketplace is a charming destination with its own half-timbered houses and vineyards.
Is there parking available near the hiking trails in Schutterwald?
While specific parking areas for each trail are not detailed, Schutterwald is well-equipped for visitors. Given its popularity for outdoor activities, you can generally find parking facilities near trailheads, especially around the Schutterwald Quarry Lake and within the town center.
Can I reach hiking trails in Schutterwald by public transport?
Schutterwald has public transport connections that can bring you to the vicinity of various hiking starting points. For detailed information on bus routes and schedules to access specific trailheads, it's best to consult local public transport websites or apps.
Are the hiking trails in Schutterwald dog-friendly?
Many of the trails in and around Schutterwald are suitable for dogs, especially those through forests and open fields. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, particularly in nature reserves like 'Unterwassermatten' and when passing through agricultural areas, to protect wildlife and livestock.
Where can I find refreshments or places to eat after a hike?
Schutterwald's idyllic town center offers various options for refreshments and dining. Additionally, the area around the River Schutter features a popular barbecue area for those who prefer to bring their own food. For specific cafes or restaurants, exploring the town center is your best bet.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Schutterwald?
The hiking experiences in Schutterwald are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the tranquility of the Black Forest to the open plains, and especially enjoy the scenic paths around the Schutterwald Quarry Lake.
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