Top 20 Lakes in Naturpark Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord
Best lakes in Naturpark Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord are often glacial cirque lakes, formed during the last ice age, offering distinct natural beauty. This region, the largest nature park in Germany, features a diverse landscape of forests, high moors, and valleys. The lakes provide various recreational opportunities and serve as notable landmarks within the natural environment. Many are nestled within protected areas, showcasing untouched wilderness and unique ecosystems.
Best lakes in Naturpark Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord
- The most popular lakes is Lake Sankenbach,…
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Lake Sankenbach
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Mummelsee
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Wildsee raised bog
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Ellbachseeblick Viewing Platform
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Ellbach Lake
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Popular around Naturpark Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord
Nature, mountains and freedom – gravel and cycle Tours in the Black Forest
Triathlon around Germany
Kinzigtäler Jakobusweg – With Jakob through the Black Forest
Ortenau Wine Trail – A glass of red and white, please
Germany's Gäurandweg – A ramble through the countryside
The Enztal cycle path – From the Black Forest to the Neckar River
Naturpark cycle way – 4 days through the northern Black Forest
Rottweil–Lahr Black Forest Trail – Hike between forests and meadows
Schwarzwald Nordrandweg – Between forest and meadow
Lauterbacher Wandersteig – Two days in the idyllic Black Forest
Other adventures in Naturpark Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord
Tips from the Community
The silted-up, originally almost circular lake now resembles a three-fingered hand. The south-southwest-facing "fingers" are between 80 and 110 meters long, and the northern "palm" has a diameter of approximately 40 meters. The body of water, mostly covered by floating vegetation, has a maximum diameter of just under 150 meters. Like all cirque lakes, the Ellbachsee was formed by glaciers. The last deepening of the lake basin occurred during the Würm glaciation, which ended in the Black Forest about 10,000 years ago. The Ellbachsee and its surroundings are designated as a natural monument (7.1 hectares), a geotope, and a protected forest. Source: Wikipedia
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The Ellbachsee in the municipality of Baiersbronn was designated as an extensive natural monument in 1937. The protected area covers a total area of approximately 7.1 hectares. The water area is surrounded by a Bultenmoor; it forms an independent biotope for many endangered animal and plant species. Because of its high sensitivity to being stepped on, you should avoid walking on it so that this habitat is not destroyed. Compared to the other karst lakes in the Black Forest, the Ellbachsee is not particularly deep at 1 to 2 meters. Its length is approximately 190 meters and its width is approximately 40 meters. At just 0.34 hectares, the open water area is the smallest of the karst lakes in the northern Black Forest. It has now become increasingly silted up, which is reflected in a silted area of 1.16 hectares. Some downy birch trees have already settled on the peat island floating on it. The lake has a narrow outlet and breaks through the moraine. It flows into the Guten Ellbach, which flows into the Murg in Baiersbronn Mitteltal.
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The Ellbachsee is home to a floating peat island, elves and water spirits 🧚♀️🧚♂️. This is probably one of the reasons why it is designated as a natural monument worthy of protection.
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The lake was created around 10,000 years ago when a glacier melted, but disappeared again 3,000 years ago. In 1980/81 a natural dam was created here again. This has created a beautiful leisure and nature reserve where you can enjoy taking a longer break. Nice seating on the drainage side and a large barbecue area by the waterfall.
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The Sankenbachsee is a former karst lake southwest of Baiersbronn. It silted up around 3,000 years ago and could be artificially dammed up again because it lies below the Sankenbach waterfalls and is flowed through by the Sankenbach. In the 1980s, a low barrage was built at the outflow of the Sankenbach to protect the lake from silting up. Source: Wikipedia
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Big spacious cabin. Very inviting to rest. Was clean and tidy. Tables and benches in front of the hut and an intact fountain.
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Idyllically located Wildsee in the high moor, which can be visited quietly and during the week without the hustle and bustle. It is essential to ensure that you stay on the laid out path that leads through the middle of the moor. A couple of benches provide an opportunity to enjoy the view of the lake. Along the wooden plank path you can find information about the moor and nature on some boards.
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The unspoilt moor landscape around the Wildsee is the largest natural high moor area in Germany. The plateaus between the Sommerberg and Kaltenbronn have been designated as a nature reserve. In the middle of a huge forest area lies an unspoilt landscape with high and forest moors, cirques and block heaps. The high moors around the Kaltenbronn are something special, as all visitors know. But few also know that the plants and animals of the moors react sensitively to even the slightest change. Damage to this unique habitat is irreversible. As early as 1928, the Wildseemoor was declared a "protected forest". In the years 1939 and 1940 the nature reserves Wildseemoor and Hohlohsee were designated. Source: https://www.bad-wildbad.de/urlaubsziel-schwarzwald/sehenswertes/wildseemoor-urlaubsziel-nreservation-id_220/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find in Naturpark Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord?
The Naturpark Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord features a diverse range of lakes, primarily glacial cirque lakes formed during the last ice age, such as Mummelsee, Wildsee raised bog, and Buhlbachsee. You can also find large man-made reservoirs like the Schwarzenbach Dam, and high moor tarns, each offering distinct natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Naturpark Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord?
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Mummelsee offers pedal boating, a barrier-free circular path, and a children's playground. Lake Sankenbach has a barbecue area with facilities and seating. The Nagoldtalsperre is popular for swimming and features the Eisvogelpfad, a nature and adventure trail suitable for families. The Schwarzenbach Dam also offers boat rentals and campsites.
What unique natural features can I see at the lakes?
The lakes in Naturpark Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord boast unique natural features. Buhlbachsee is known for its distinctive floating bog island covered with moor birches and cotton grass. Wildsee raised bog is nestled within an old-growth forest (Bannwald) and features a sensitive high moor ecosystem with protective boardwalks. Many lakes are glacial cirque lakes, offering dramatic landscapes with cirque walls.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Hiking is very popular, with trails around lakes like Mummelsee, Wildsee raised bog, and Buhlbachsee. Pedal boating is available at Mummelsee, and boat rentals at Schwarzenbach Dam. Swimming is possible at Nagoldtalsperre. In winter, Mummelsee is suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. For more hiking options, explore routes in the region like the 'Foodie Trail – Mummelsee-Hornisgrinde trail' or 'All Saints' Waterfalls in the Black Forest' by visiting the Hiking in Naturpark Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord guide.
Are there good viewpoints near the lakes?
Yes, the region offers several spectacular viewpoints. The Wildseeblick viewpoint provides breathtaking panoramas over Wildsee raised bog and the Schönmünztal valley. You can also hike to the Hornisgrinde summit, which overlooks Mummelsee, for extensive views. The Ellbachseeblick Viewing Platform also offers fabulous views over the mountain ranges of the Northern Black Forest.
Can I go swimming in the lakes of Naturpark Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord?
While not all lakes are suitable for swimming, the Nagoldtalsperre is a popular reservoir for swimming, featuring designated areas for visitors to enjoy the water.
What is the best time to visit the lakes in Naturpark Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for hiking, boating, and swimming. Autumn offers stunning foliage, while winter transforms the landscape, making lakes like Mummelsee suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Yes, amenities are available near some lakes. The Berghotel Mummelsee is located directly on the bank of Mummelsee, offering regional food and a gift shop. Near the Schwarzenbach Dam, you'll find numerous holiday homes and campsites for a relaxing stay.
Are there barbecue areas available at the lakes?
Yes, Lake Sankenbach is particularly noted for its excellent barbecue area at the foot of its waterfalls. It features rotating grates, tables with benches, a drinking water fountain, and shelters, making it a great spot for a picnic.
What makes Mummelsee a popular destination?
Mummelsee is popular due to its mystical legends of an underwater king and nymphs, its scenic location on the Schwarzwaldhochstraße, and its status as the deepest and largest cirque lake in the Black Forest. Visitors enjoy pedal boating, a barrier-free circular path, an art trail, and the Berghotel Mummelsee. It's also a starting point for hikes to the Hornisgrinde summit.
What is the significance of Wildsee raised bog?
Wildsee raised bog is ecologically significant as a small tarn within the Black Forest National Park and a protected natural forest reserve (Bannwald) since 1911. It features a high moor with boardwalks to protect its delicate ecosystem, offering a unique experience for nature lovers seeking untouched wilderness.
What is special about Buhlbachsee?
Buhlbachsee is an idyllic cirque lake known for its serene atmosphere and a unique floating bog island covered with moor birches and cotton grass, a result of its natural silting process. Surrounded by untouched nature and towering cirque walls, it's a peaceful retreat and a popular stop for hikers and mountain bikers exploring the National Park.
What is the Schwarzenbach Dam used for?
The Schwarzenbach Dam is the largest lake in the northern and central Black Forest, primarily built for electricity generation and flood protection. Beyond its functional purpose, its idyllic surroundings make it a favored destination for recreation, offering boat rentals and numerous holiday accommodations.
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