Col du Schaeferthal (1224m) walks

Not to be missed! This is one of the most iconic and famous hikes in the Vosges. The landscapes and views of the entire Vosges mountain range, the Black Forest and even the Alps (on a clear day) are simply magnificent. If you're lucky, you may even spot chamois on the slopes of Hohneck, so don't forget your binoculars! ⚠️ This route is not accessible in winter. The route between (4), (2) and (5) is closed from 1 November to 30 April 2022 (Prefectural Order of 18 May 2022).

On the agenda: a full day of breathtaking views! Starting from the summit of Hohneck, this hike will take you to a less frequented slope to the east of the Col du Rothenbach. This will lead you to the Sapin de Kolben and the chapel, before discovering the three lakes: Altenweiher, Fischboedle and Schiessrothried. Finally, return to the summit via the Col de Schaeferthal. This hike is classified as very difficult: see the Practical Information section.

A beautiful hike with varied, technical trails and magnificent landscapes. The hike starts in the valley before passing close to the lakes and climbing up the ridges to Hohneck. It then descends via the Schiessroth farmhouse inn, Lake Schiessrothried, Lake Fischboedle, and returns to Mittlach via the Wormsa valley. 06/02/2023: Hiking is prohibited until further notice by municipal decree due to a rock and stone slide on theGR®531.

Circular route starting from the Col de la Schlucht, passing via the Hohneck and the Petit Hohneck, and returning via the challenging but magnificent Sentier des Roches. This hike is not possible in winter. See the practical information below.

A magnificent hike with breathtaking scenery. The first section is very technical along the rocky path, followed by the ascent to the Hohneck. Very varied scenery and sublime views throughout the route. There are opportunities to stop for a break at the inns along the way. Warning! This route includes several sections that are off-limits or should be avoided in winter conditions The hike should be undertaken from May to October, depending on snow conditions (see practical information below).

The Sentier des Roches is one of the most popular trails in the Vosges. With its incredible views and steep sections, it is a mountain trail. It links the Col de la Schlucht to the Frakenthal cirque. The rest of the walk follows the Sentier de la Bloy, which is narrower but greener. This trail leads to the Gaschney ski resort. The route then continues in open country, climbing – at times over very stony ground – to the Hohneck, the third-highest peak in the Vosges. From the summit, there is a 360° view across the entire Vosges range. The rest of the route is then a simple matter of making your way back to the Col de la Schlucht.

This short hike is one of the most classic in the region and therefore deserves a brief description. Ascent to the Hohneck from the Route des Crêtes, descent towards the Col du Schaeferthal then into the Frankenthal (and its alpine dairy) before climbing back up to the Col du Falimont via the magnificent Sentier de Falimont.360° views, cliffs, pastures and, occasionally, chamois.

This wonderful hike, the quintessence of the Hautes Vosges, will take you from the Route des Crêtes to the lovely Frankenthal valley and the beautiful Lac du Schiessrothried. Through (very) rocky paths, stubble fields, peat bogs and deep forest. Dotted with inns and climbing rocks. With a bit of luck, you might spot some chamois, or even grass snakes.