The 20 Most Amazing Peaks in the Black Forest

The Black Forest boasts several highly regarded peaks. Among the most popular are Feldberg Summit, the highest peak in the region, known for its expansive views. Visitors also frequently enjoy the scenic beauty of Belchen Summit (1,414 m), often considered one of the most beautiful mountains, and Schauinsland Observation Tower, easily accessible by cable car and offering superb vistas.

The highest mountain peak in the Black Forest is Feldberg Summit, standing at 1,493 meters (4,898 ft). It is also the highest elevation in Baden-Württemberg and the highest peak of all German low mountain ranges. On clear days, the views from its summit can extend as far as the Alps.

For breathtaking panoramic views, consider visiting Feldberg, where on clear days you can see the Alps. Belchen is renowned for its exceptional scenic beauty, offering vistas of the Rhine Valley and Vosges mountains. Schauinsland lives up to its name ('look into the country') with extensive views over the Black Forest, Rhine Valley, Vosges, and Swiss Alps. Kandel provides unique panoramic views of the Black Forest, Vosges, and Alps, while Hornisgrinde offers wide views extending to the Vosges and the Swabian Alb.

Yes, several peaks and attractions are suitable for families. The Belchen Summit (1,414 m) is accessible via cableway, making it easy for families to enjoy the views. The Schauinsland Observation Tower is also family-friendly, with the cable car providing easy access. Additionally, the Bismarck Tower on Hornisgrinde is a small observation tower that is easy to climb and offers great views for all ages.

The Black Forest peaks are rich in natural features. Feldberg is home to the largest and oldest nature reserve in Baden-Württemberg, featuring unique plant species and the glacial Feldsee lake. Hornisgrinde boasts a distinctive treeless high moor, estimated to be at least 6,000 years old, which visitors can explore via a wooden plank path. The area around Belchen is also a nature reserve, protecting rare plant and animal species.

The Black Forest peaks have interesting historical connections. Schauinsland has a rich history of silver mining dating back to the 13th century, with remnants and a mining museum to explore. Hornisgrinde was a restricted military area until 1999, and visitors can still see remnants like the Hornisgrinde bunker. Additionally, several peaks feature historical observation towers, such as the Hohloh Tower (Kaiser Wilhelm Tower) and the Friedrich Tower at Badener Höhe.

Yes, the Black Forest is a prime destination for hiking. Near the peaks, you can find numerous trails, including the popular 12-kilometer Feldberg Steig around Feldberg, which offers varied terrain and views of Feldsee. For more hiking options, explore the many routes available in the Hiking in the Black Forest guide, which includes trails like the Feldbergsteig premium trail and the Genießerpfad Three Gorges Tour.

Beyond hiking, the Black Forest peaks offer a wide range of outdoor activities. Feldberg transforms into the largest ski resort outside the Alps in winter. Schauinsland is popular for paragliding, Nordic walking, mountain biking, and winter sports. Kandel is a hub for hiking, cycling, climbing, paragliding, and winter sports, and is particularly favored by racing cyclists for its challenging ascent. You can find more cycling options in the Road Cycling Routes in the Black Forest guide and MTB Trails in the Black Forest guide.

Many peaks in the Black Forest are highly accessible. Schauinsland is easily reached via Germany's longest two-way cable car system, the Schauinsland Cableway. The Belchen Summit can also be reached by the Belchen Cableway, or by hiking and cycling. For other peaks, there are often well-maintained hiking trails and sometimes roads leading close to the summit areas, with parking available.

Hornisgrinde stands out as the highest mountain in the Northern Black Forest, primarily due to its unique treeless high moor on the summit plateau. This ancient moorland, estimated to be at least 6,000 years old, offers a distinct landscape for hiking on a wooden plank path. It also provides wide views extending to the Vosges and the Swabian Alb, and is historically significant as a former military area.

The Black Forest mountain peaks offer different experiences depending on the season. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for enjoying the full range of outdoor activities and panoramic views. In winter, peaks like Feldberg and Schauinsland transform into popular destinations for skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing, making them attractive year-round.

Yes, Kandel, the highest mountain in the central Black Forest, is often referred to as the 'Brocken of the Black Forest' due to its mystical legends. It is associated with folklore, such as the belief that the upper part of the Kandel rock breaks off on Walpurgis Night, adding a layer of mystique to its imposing presence.