4.5
(5425)
25,099
hikers
21
hikes
Hiking around Steinberger Lake offers diverse trails through a landscape characterized by wooded shores, rolling hills, and dense forests in Bavaria, Germany. The clear lake itself is a central feature, providing opportunities for lakeside walks and views. The region is nestled between the Steinberger See and the Hirschwald forest, offering varied natural settings for outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 24, 2026
4.7
(72)
433
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(10)
34
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(5)
140
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
27
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
26
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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nice mini-golf course at the wakeboard facility
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From here you can watch the wakeboarders very nicely. A cozy spot. And I love watching the wakeboarders on their course.
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Knappensee The lake's origins can be traced back to the cessation of lignite mining by the Bavarian lignite industry in the 1980s. Flooding of the pit began in 1981, creating the lake with an area of 55 hectares and an average depth of 5 meters (deepest point: 6.5 meters). It is approximately 1 kilometer long and 460 meters wide. The lake's name likely derives from the miners' association or the miners of the open-cast mine, whose work led to its creation after mining operations ceased. The "Knappensee Circular Trail" was created around the lake. Since 2012, this trail, offering 3,900 meters of hiking and cycling routes, has been intended to support tourism in the region. Two-thirds of the circular trail lies within the municipality of Wackersdorf. A parking lot for cars is available on the south side. The water quality of the lake is monitored by the Weiden Water Management Office in the Upper Palatinate region using a measuring station located in the northern third of the lake. The measurement data is available from the Bavarian State Office for the Environment. After the open-cast mine was flooded, the lake water was highly acidic (pH value in 1998: 3.6); however, this has since changed unexpectedly, as the pH value is now reported to be 6.8. Fishing in the lake is permitted only with a fishing license and a local day permit, with a maximum catch of 5 fish per day. Source: Excerpts from www.wikipedia.de
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Lake Steinberger Lake Steinberger is part of the Upper Palatinate Lake District and, with an area of 1.84 km², is the largest lake in the Upper Palatinate. It was named after the municipality of Steinberg am See. It is 1.98 km long, 1.4 km wide, and has a maximum depth of 50 meters. The Schreckerbach stream feeds and drains the lake. After the Bavarian lignite industry ceased mining operations in the mid-1980s, the open-cast mine "Steinberger See" was flooded by reducing the water level. Remaining mining equipment was demolished and still lies on the lakebed. Two small, wooded islands also remain, which now divide the lake into a northern and a southern section. In the following decades, tourism developed at Lake Steinberger, bringing a degree of economic growth to the region. In addition to the Steinberger Yacht Club (SYC), founded in 1987, the area now boasts a sailing school, a water ski lift, a boat rental, a leisure park for families and children, a surf club, and most recently, an adventure golf course and a roughly 40-meter-high wooden "adventure sphere" with viewing platforms, an obstacle course, and a giant slide. Numerous restaurants, inns, and cafés complement the leisure offerings. A water rescue station has been established for the safety of visitors. Due to the increasing improvement in water quality and visibility in recent years, Lake Steinberger has become one of the most popular diving areas in the Upper Palatinate. Like all lakes in the Upper Palatinate Lake District, which originated from lignite mines, the water is acidic due to leaching. Because of the ongoing improvement in water quality, fish populations are steadily increasing. Perch and the occasional pike have been observed most frequently. The water is very clean; on windless days, visibility is possible to a depth of at least 10 meters. Occasionally, the tops of dead trees can be seen on the bottom. According to the ordinance issued by the Schwandorf District Office on August 8, 2002, the entire Steinberger See is open for diving. Especially in summer and winter, very good visibility (up to 20 meters) has been possible in recent years. Source: Excerpts from www.wikipedia.de
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And from here you also have a wonderful view of the wooden sphere.
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A beautiful, versatile lake where you can spend time until late in the evening, especially in summer.
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beautiful souvenir of the mining era
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A great facility worth trying out 👌☺️. A lot of fun👌
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There are over 20 hiking routes around Steinberger Lake, offering a variety of experiences. Most of these trails are rated as easy, with a few moderate and difficult options for those seeking more of a challenge.
Steinberger Lake is enjoyable for hiking throughout much of the year. The clear lake is particularly inviting for walks and other activities on warm days, making spring, summer, and early autumn ideal for combining hiking with water-based recreation. The region's wooded shores and forests also offer beautiful scenery during autumn foliage.
Yes, circular routes are a popular way to explore the area. A prominent option is the Steinberger See Circular Trail – Wakeboard Park Steinberger See loop from Steinberg am See, which is approximately 5.5 km long and offers continuous lake views. The region also connects to the larger 4-Lakes-Hiking Trail, which is about 34 km long and links Steinberger Lake with other nearby lakes.
The terrain around Steinberger Lake is diverse, characterized by wooded shores, rolling hills, and dense forests. Many trails, especially the main circular path around the lake, are relatively flat and easy to walk. Other routes may feature gentle inclines and varied landscapes, suitable for different fitness levels. You'll find well-developed paths and some leading through shaded forests.
Absolutely! Many trails around Steinberger Lake are suitable for families, offering gentle inclines and easy-to-walk paths. Beyond hiking, the area boasts attractions like the Movin Ground Adventure and Fun Arena, the Adventure Golf Park, and the impressive Erlebnisholzkugel (Adventure Wooden Sphere), which provide additional entertainment for all ages.
Hikers can discover several notable attractions. The most unique is the Erlebnisholzkugel (Adventure Wooden Sphere), a 40-meter-high structure with activity stations and panoramic views. You might also pass by the Wild Wake Park, Lake Steinberger, or enjoy the scenic Beach at Steinberger Lake. The View of the Lake – Beach at Steinberger Lake loop from Steinberg am See offers extensive lake views and passes by some of these points of interest.
While specific regulations for dogs can vary, many lakeside and forest trails in the region are generally suitable for well-behaved dogs on a leash. It's always a good idea to bring water for your pet, especially on warmer days, and to be mindful of other hikers and wildlife.
While specific parking locations are not detailed, Steinberger Lake is a popular recreational area, and parking facilities are generally available near major access points and attractions like the Erlebnisholzkugel or the main lakefront areas in Steinberg am See. Look for designated parking lots when planning your visit.
Yes, you'll find numerous refreshment stops around Steinberger Lake. These include beer gardens and restaurants, many offering pleasant lake views. For example, the Wakeboard Facility and Restaurant at Steinberger See is a popular spot, and the Kreisel Restaurant is another option.
The hiking experience around Steinberger Lake is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the continuous lake views, the varied landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that cater to different skill levels. The combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities makes it a favorite.
Yes, there are plenty of easy and shorter options. For instance, the Beach at Steinberger Lake – Reeds by the Lake loop from Steinberg am See is a gentle 2.7 km trail that can be completed in under an hour, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Many of the trails directly around the lake are relatively flat and accessible.
Absolutely! Steinberger Lake is a hub for outdoor activities. Besides hiking, you can enjoy swimming, boating, or even try waterskiing and wakeboarding at the Wild Wake Park. Segway rentals are also available for exploring the surroundings in a different way, making it easy to combine multiple experiences in one visit.


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