The best waterfall hikes and walks around Schwärzesee

There are over 60 waterfall hiking trails around Schwärzesee, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance routes within this beautiful natural setting.

The trails are nestled within the Nonnenfließ-Schwärzetal Nature Reserve, characterized by tranquil mixed forests and the spring-fed Schwärze river. This protected status ensures a serene environment, diverse landscapes, and opportunities for wildlife observation, making it a truly special place for outdoor exploration.

Yes, there are plenty of easy options. For instance, the Herthafließ Stream – Spechthausen Paper Mill loop from Spechthausen is an easy 3.5 km route that takes just over an hour to complete, perfect for a relaxed outing. Overall, the region offers 31 easy tours.

Many trails in the Nonnenfließ-Schwärzetal Nature Reserve are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas, to respect wildlife and other hikers.

Yes, many of the trails are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A great example is the Drahthammer Lock – Herthafließ Stream loop from Eberswalde Hauptbahnhof, a moderate 12.6 km path that offers scenic views of local waterways and woodlands.

The area around Schwärzesee is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer vibrant colors and pleasant temperatures for hiking. Even in winter, the frozen landscape can be stunning, providing opportunities for 'ice hiking' if conditions allow. The spring-fed nature of the Schwärze river ensures water flow even during drier periods.

You'll encounter diverse natural features, including lush mixed forests (from pine monocultures to fresh beech forests), the tranquil Schwärze river, and the serene Schwärzesee itself. The area is known for its peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for wildlife observation within the protected Nonnenfließ-Schwärzetal Nature Reserve.

While a former parking lot directly at Schwärzesee was closed to promote a more natural recreational space, the lake remains accessible. You can often find parking in nearby towns like Eberswalde or Finow and then reach the trails via cycling and hiking paths. For example, the Wolfswinkel Paper Mill – Nonnenfließ near Spechthausen loop from Finow starts from Finow, where parking options may be available.

Absolutely. For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the Nonnenfließ near Spechthausen – Liesenkreuz Shelter loop from Schwärzesee is a difficult 29.8 km trail that takes nearly 8 hours to complete. This route allows you to explore the extensive natural landscapes of the Nonnenfließ-Schwärzetal in depth.

The routes in Schwärzesee are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,800 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquility, the beautiful mixed forests, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable outdoor experience.

Yes, some trails are accessible via public transport. For instance, the Drahthammer Lock – Herthafließ Stream loop from Eberswalde Hauptbahnhof starts directly from Eberswalde's main train station, making it convenient for those relying on public transport.

Schwärzesee itself is a popular spot for swimming, particularly on its northern shore. Thanks to various spring-fed streams, the lake remains refreshingly cool even in summer, offering a great way to cool off after a hike.