The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Ettlingen
4.5
(2395)
11,075
hikers
37
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails around Ettlingen benefit from its location at the northern edge of the Black Forest and within the scenic Alb Valley. The region features a diverse landscape, ranging from river plains and vibrant orchards to the foothills of a low mountain range. Hikers can explore dense forests, rolling hills, and elevated areas with numerous viewpoints. This varied terrain provides a range of experiences for those seeking outdoor activities.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around Ettlingen
- The most…
Last updated: June 26, 2026
3.8
(8)
32
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
46
hikers
10.2km
02:43
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(3)
51
hikers
8.33km
02:13
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
27
hikers
6.01km
01:39
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
17
hikers
8.06km
02:08
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The "Zigeunerpfad" (Gypsy path) near Ettlingen is very likely a historical place name from the 18th or 19th century. Such paths were often called that because travelling groups like Sinti and Roma or other wanderers used to camp or regularly pass through there. The name therefore probably means "path on which the travelling people moved". Today, it is mainly an old, traditional landscape name that reflects the former use of the area.
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The artwork was installed very close to the Horbach Fountain. Its orange color makes it a highly visible eye-catcher - which one initially mistakes for a slide from a distance.
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Small and pretty pond on the outskirts of town with a circular path with many benches. Idyllic.
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The artist Stefan Rohrer has dedicated his life to the automobile. He buys old car bodies, scrap scooters, and other vehicles, dismantles them, and then reassembles them. There are no limits to form and color. In the specific case of Horbach Park, Stefan Rohrer received a Vespa from the 1980s as a gift from someone close to Werner Pokorny and modified it. This "Wild Vespa" leaves the path in a dynamic movement, disappears into the earth, and then reappears. SOURCE: https://www.ettlingen.de/site/Ettlingen-2021/get/documents_E-1025331777/ettlingen/Dokumente/MU/Kunstpfad/Kunstpfad_WEB.pdf
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The present-day castle had two, possibly even three, predecessor structures. After the Baden Margrave Hermann V was granted the town of Ettlingen, founded by the Hohenstaufen dynasty, by Emperor Frederick II, his son, Margrave Rudolf I of Baden, built a castle complex in the mid-13th century – possibly on the remains of a Hohenstaufen predecessor structure. However, no previous structure has yet been identified. The lower floors of the keep in the castle courtyard, which are still preserved today, date from this period. A magnificent Renaissance castle followed in the 16th century. Two round corner towers were added to the south wing, and the keep was given a half-timbered upper floor. The three-wing Renaissance complex surrounding the old keep, completed in 1600, was destroyed along with the entire town by French troops in 1689 during the War of the Palatinate Succession (Wikipedia).
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There is a farm, the "Rimmelsbacher Hof," and a nearby inn with a beer garden of the same name.
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Beautiful park just before Ettlingen
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A playground was also created in the immediate vicinity of the pavilion.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available around Ettlingen?
Ettlingen offers a fantastic selection of dog-friendly hiking trails, with over 30 routes specifically curated for you and your canine companion. These range from easy strolls along the Alb River to more challenging treks into the Black Forest foothills.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in Ettlingen?
The terrain around Ettlingen is wonderfully varied, situated at the gateway to the Northern Black Forest and within the scenic Alb Valley. You'll find everything from gentle river plains and vibrant orchards to dense forest sections and elevated regions offering panoramic views. Expect a mix of well-maintained paths and natural forest trails.
Are there any easy dog-friendly walks suitable for older dogs or shorter outings?
Yes, there are several easy options perfect for a relaxed walk with your dog. For a pleasant, shorter outing, consider the Beierbach Ford and Bridge – Horbach Spring loop from Redoute. This 6 km route is rated easy and offers a delightful experience without significant elevation changes.
Can I find moderate dog-friendly hikes that offer a good balance of distance and scenery?
Absolutely. Many of Ettlingen's dog-friendly trails fall into the moderate category, providing a rewarding experience. A great option is the Lochmühlen Spring – Lochmühlenquelle Pond loop from Ettlingen Stadt, which is about 10 km long and takes you through varied landscapes, perfect for a half-day adventure.
Are there any challenging dog-friendly routes for experienced hikers and their dogs?
For those seeking a more demanding adventure, Ettlingen has a few challenging dog-friendly trails. The Lochmühlen Spring – Malsch Viewpoint loop from Ettlingen Albgaubad is a difficult 21 km route with over 400 meters of elevation gain, offering a strenuous workout and rewarding views.
What are some scenic highlights or points of interest I can explore with my dog near Ettlingen?
Ettlingen's dog-friendly trails often lead past beautiful natural and historical sites. You can incorporate a visit to the historic Ettlingen Old Town and Castle into a walk, or explore routes that pass by the idyllic Alb River. Some trails also offer views of the Black Forest foothills and the Alb Valley.
Are there any dog-friendly hikes accessible by public transport in Ettlingen?
Ettlingen is well-integrated into the regional public transport network. Many trails start directly from the town center or are easily reachable from bus and tram stops. For example, the Lake Horbach – Ettlingen Palace loop from Ettlingen Erbprinz begins close to public transport access points within Ettlingen, making it convenient for a car-free outing.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Ettlingen?
The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly hiking experience in Ettlingen, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the diverse scenery ranging from river valleys to forest climbs, and the overall welcoming atmosphere for dogs.
Are there any circular dog-friendly routes around Ettlingen?
Yes, many of the dog-friendly trails around Ettlingen are circular, allowing for a convenient start and end point without retracing your steps. For instance, the Beierbach Ford and Bridge – Carl-Schöpf-Hütte loop from Bruchhausen (bei Ettlingen) is a moderate 13.8 km circular route that offers a varied landscape experience.
When is the best time of year to go dog hiking in Ettlingen?
Ettlingen is beautiful year-round for dog hiking. Spring brings blooming orchards and fresh greenery, while summer offers lush forests and refreshing river sections. Autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant colors, and even winter can be magical with crisp air and potential snow, especially in the higher Black Forest areas. Always check local conditions before heading out.
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