4.6
(6)
20
hikers
7
hikes
Mountaineering routes around Sulzmatt are set within the foothills of the Vosges mountains, offering a diverse landscape for ascents. The region features rounded summits, dense forests, and glacial cirques, providing varied terrain for mountain exploration. Trails range from moderate paths through valleys and vineyards to more challenging ascents requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. The area's proximity to peaks like the Grand Ballon and Petit Ballon ensures significant elevation gains and panoramic views.
Last updated: October 29, 2026
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
Moderate mountaineering route. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.0
(1)
4
hikers
14.7km
05:11
790m
790m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.

5.0
(3)
6
hikers
Moderate mountaineering route. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
2
hikers
3.48km
01:19
200m
200m
Moderate mountaineering route. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
2
hikers
7.29km
02:24
300m
310m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
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When you drive from the Route des Crêtes towards Le Grand Ballon, you pass the Col du Haag (1233 m) almost unnoticed. Yet, this pass marks a special point on the southern flank of the highest mountain in the Vosges. Here, steep roads from the Thurdal leave the wooded slopes and reach the open heights of the massif. From the col, a typical Vosges landscape unfolds with mountain meadows, scattered farms, and sweeping views. The proximity of the Grand Ballon is felt everywhere: the imposing summit towers above the pass and forms the natural goal of the final climbing kilometers. For cyclists, the Col du Haag is mainly known as the point where difficult climbs from the valleys converge before the road continues to rise to the highest point of the Vosges.
6
0
Dedicated to the blue devils (diables bleus), who had to lose their lives at Hartmannswiller Kopf = man-eater head (mangeurs d'hommes) = elite troop of the French, the Chasseurs Alpines. 30,000 victims, Germans and French alike. Compare with Douaumont (Verdun) = Symbol of horror.
0
0
via gravel road approx. 700m east of the Col du Petit Ballon. From the pass summit itself, the view is (somewhat) limited. On the descent there are wonderful views small parking possibility, surrounded by forest and meadow
0
0
360° panorama and view of the Alps on a clear day (especially in winter).
0
0
It always amazes me to see how long remnants of wars remain in the landscape. This was one of many other signs of WWI.
0
0
It is easier than it looks but with the heat everything was more difficult.
0
0
This refuge was heaven sent. By this moment, my water reserves were comletely depleted. The refuge provided exactly that: refuge. The carer was super friendly and helpful, giving me water and again, suggesting places of where to camp.
1
0
There are 7 mountaineering routes around Sulzmatt, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult ascents within the Vosges mountains.
The mountaineering routes around Sulzmatt primarily feature moderate difficulty, with 6 out of 7 routes falling into this category. There is also one difficult route for those seeking a greater challenge. These trails often require good fitness and sure-footedness, with some exposed areas.
Yes, many routes around Sulzmatt are circular. For example, the Grand Ballon – Panoramic view from the Grand Ballon summit loop from Grand Ballon offers expansive views from the highest point of the Vosges mountains. Another option is the Petit Ballon Pass (1,163 m) – Petit Ballon loop from Petit Ballon, which is a moderate 3.7 km trail.
Mountaineering routes around Sulzmatt traverse diverse landscapes, from picturesque vineyards at the foothills to the rounded summits, dense forests, and glacial cirques of the Vosges mountains. You'll experience significant elevation gains and panoramic views, especially from peaks like the Grand Ballon.
While specific crowd levels vary, routes leading through the Wormsa Valley, a classified natural site near Sulzmatt, tend to offer a more serene experience with rivers and waterfalls. For a less frequented summit experience, consider exploring trails around Storkenkopf, which provides stunning views without the crowds of the more prominent peaks.
Many routes offer breathtaking views. The summit of Grand Ballon, the highest point of the Vosges, provides extensive panoramic vistas. The Grand Ballon – Panoramic view from the Grand Ballon summit loop from Col du Grand Ballon is a great option for this. Additionally, the Petit Ballon area also offers superb mountain scenery.
The mountaineering routes in Sulzmatt are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 6 reviews. Users often praise the varied terrain, the challenging ascents, and the rewarding panoramic views from the summits.
Yes, the region is rich in historical sites. You can find landmarks like the Wihr Cross along some trails. Further afield, but still accessible, are impressive structures such as The Three Castles of Eguisheim and Hohlandsbourg Castle, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
The Vosges mountains offer diverse experiences throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, ideal for hiking. Summer is excellent for higher altitude routes. While winter mountaineering is possible, it requires appropriate gear and experience due to snow and ice conditions.
Absolutely. The Petit Ballon – Col du Hilsenfirst loop from Linthal is classified as difficult, covering 14.5 km with significant elevation changes. This route is suitable for experienced mountaineers seeking a strenuous and rewarding challenge.
Yes, the area surrounding Sulzmatt is famous for its expansive vineyards. While the core mountaineering routes focus on higher elevations, many trails at the foothills and in the valleys offer picturesque views of these vineyards, especially as you approach or depart from the mountain ascents.
Given the varied terrain and potential for exposed areas, it's advisable to bring sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, appropriate layers of clothing for changing weather conditions, a map or GPS device, sufficient water and snacks, and sun protection. For more challenging routes, trekking poles can be beneficial.
Yes, you can explore the area around The Steinberg. The Petit Ballon Pass (1,163 m) – The Steinberg loop from Petit Ballon is a moderate 7.3 km trail that leads through mountain passes and forested sections, offering access to this notable summit.


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