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Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen

Unterschönau

Top 12 Gorges around Unterschönau

Best canyons around Unterschönau are found within the Thuringian Forest, a region characterized by deep valleys and steep slopes. This area offers natural beauty, including lush green landscapes and significant geological features. Unterschönau serves as a base for exploring these natural attractions, which provide opportunities for outdoor activities. The region's terrain includes various gorges and ravines, contributing to its scenic environment.

Best canyons around Unterschönau

  • The most popular canyons is Spittergrund Gorge, a gorge that features a well-developed path…

Last updated: June 27, 2026

Spittergrund Gorge

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From Tambach to Ebertswiese through the Splittergrund ... a classic in Thuringia. Also suitable for prams and for people who are no longer quite as good on foot. Well-developed path.

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Röllchen Gorge and Waterfall

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The Röllchen is a hidden mini-gorge with several cascades and waterfall, which can be admired by a wooden bridge. The upper exit leads over rough, handy rock.

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Marderbach Gorge

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Wild and romantic gorge. Especially worth seeing in winter when icicles, some several meters long, hang on the rocks.

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Marderbach Stream

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The Marderbach rises near Tambach-Dietharz and flows into the Schmalwasser. Its course is characterized by a gorge, the Marderbachgrund, which is lined with steep rock faces.

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Spitter Trail and Georgenthaler Wall

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A single trail that you simply have to drive. But beware on transverse trees.

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Popular around Unterschönau

Hiking around Unterschönau

MTB Trails around Unterschönau

Running Trails around Unterschönau

Road Cycling Routes around Unterschönau

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Tips from the Community

Heike
February 28, 2026, Marderbach Stream

The Marderbach stream meanders along the rock face of the Maderbach gorge.

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Alwin
January 8, 2026, Spittergrund Gorge

Highly recommended even in winter, a beautiful piece of nature.

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Floating along the stream, listening to nature, over root paths...what more could you want?

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Beautiful hiking trail that is easy to walk even in bad weather.

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Theo
April 29, 2025, Marderbach Gorge

When temperatures are low enough, you can admire lots of icicles on the rocks.

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Peggy
March 2, 2025, Marderbach Gorge

Hopefully it will soon be even more beautiful with conifers...

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Peggy
March 2, 2025, Marderbach Stream

Beautiful little stream next to the path...with icy edges in winter, great for cooling your feet in summer...

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Uwe H.
February 17, 2025, Marderbach Gorge

Unfortunately, the character of the gorge has changed completely after the beetle-related forestry work. There are almost no trees left. You can now see the rocks better, but it is no longer shady and cool.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of natural features can I expect to see in the gorges around Unterschönau?

The region around Unterschönau, nestled within the Thuringian Forest, is characterized by deep valleys and steep slopes. You'll find lush green landscapes, forest-lined gorges, and rocky ravines. Specific highlights include impressive rock formations in places like Marderbach Gorge, and areas with waterfalls such as The Röllchen Gorge and Waterfall. The Marderbach Stream itself flows through a gorge with steep rock faces.

Are there any well-known gorges or canyons directly in Unterschönau?

While Unterschönau is part of the scenic Thuringian Forest, prominent named canyons are not directly within the village. The area is known for its general natural beauty, including deep valleys and steep slopes. The gorges mentioned in this guide, such as Spittergrund Gorge and Marderbach Gorge, are located within the broader region, offering opportunities for exploration from Unterschönau.

What is the Dragon Gorge (Drachenschlucht) and how does it relate to the Unterschönau area?

The Dragon Gorge (Drachenschlucht) is a renowned narrow gorge with impressive rock formations located near Eisenach, within the broader Thuringian Forest. It's known for its unique natural experience and picturesque scenery. While not directly in Unterschönau, it represents the type of captivating geological features found in the wider Thuringian Forest region.

Which gorges around Unterschönau are suitable for families?

For a family-friendly experience, Spittergrund Gorge is an excellent choice. It features a well-developed path that is suitable for various hikers, including those with prams or who prefer easier terrain. It's a classic route in Thuringia, accompanied by a stream.

Are there any challenging gorges for experienced hikers near Unterschönau?

Yes, for more experienced hikers, The Röllchen Gorge and Waterfall offers a challenging experience. It's described as a beautiful and partly alpine rocky gorge with chains to hold on to. Additionally, the Spitter Trail and Georgenthaler Wall is a challenging single trail with steep slopes and bizarre rock formations.

What makes the Marderbach Gorge unique?

Marderbach Gorge is known for its wild and romantic atmosphere, featuring impressive rock formations. Visitors describe a hiking trail meandering past ancient spruce trees and a mossy forest floor. It's particularly striking in winter when icicles, some several meters long, hang on the rocks, creating a real highlight.

What can I expect when visiting Spittergrund Gorge?

When visiting Spittergrund Gorge, you can expect a beautiful piece of nature with a well-developed path, making it accessible for many. It's highly recommended even in winter. The trail is accompanied by a stream, offering a pleasant hiking experience from Tambach to Ebertswiese.

Is there a gorge with a waterfall near Unterschönau?

Yes, The Röllchen Gorge and Waterfall is a natural gorge that features a waterfall. It's known for its beautiful, partly alpine rocky terrain and offers a great rest area further down the path.

What outdoor activities can I do near the gorges around Unterschönau?

The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including those around the gorges themselves. For more extensive hiking options, explore the Hiking around Unterschönau guide. There are also mountain hikes available, detailed in the Mountain Hikes around Unterschönau guide, and cycling routes, which you can find in the Cycling around Unterschönau guide.

What do visitors say about the gorges around Unterschönau?

The gorges around Unterschönau are highly appreciated by the komoot community, with over 400 upvotes and more than 800 photos shared. Visitors particularly enjoy the wild and romantic atmosphere of places like Marderbach Gorge, especially in winter with its icicles. The well-developed paths of Spittergrund Gorge are also frequently praised for their natural beauty.

What is the best time of year to visit the gorges around Unterschönau?

The gorges around Unterschönau offer beauty throughout the year. Visitor tips specifically highlight the winter months for places like Marderbach Gorge and Spittergrund Gorge, where icicles and snow-covered landscapes create a unique and picturesque experience. However, the lush green landscapes of the Thuringian Forest are also captivating during spring, summer, and autumn.

Are the trails in the gorges around Unterschönau dog-friendly?

While specific dog-friendly designations are not universally listed for all gorges, the general nature of the trails in the Thuringian Forest often accommodates dogs. For instance, the well-developed path at Spittergrund Gorge is generally suitable. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and follow local regulations, especially in protected natural areas.

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