Posted by The Black Forest National Park (German: Schwarzwald Nationalpark) is Germany’s first national park in the state of Baden-Württemberg. Established in 2014, it protects a large area of forest, moorland and mountain landscapes in the northern Black Forest. Unlike managed commercial forest areas, the national park follows the principle “Let nature be nature.
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For visitors, this means wild forest scenery, wooden boardwalks through moorland, panoramic viewpoints, hiking trails, and educational visitor centers. The park is ideal for nature lovers, hikers, families and travelers looking for quieter outdoor experiences away from busy tourist resorts.
Where is the Black Forest National Park?
The national park is located in the northern Black Forest between Baden-Baden and Freudenstadt. It covers approximately 100 square kilometers and lies at elevations between 500 and 1,150 meters.
Key access points include:
- Ruhestein
- Baiersbronn
- Seebach
- Oppenau
The park is divided into two main areas connected by forest roads and hiking paths.
What Makes the National Park Special?
The core idea of the park is to allow natural processes to develop without intensive forestry management. This leads to:
- Deadwood habitats
- Natural forest regeneration
- Moor and wetland ecosystems
- Diverse wildlife habitats
Visitors experience a more “wild” Black Forest compared to traditional managed woodland areas.
Top Highlights in the National Park
1. Lothar Trail (Lotharpfad)
The Lothar Trail shows how the forest regenerates after storm damage. In 1999, storm Lothar caused massive destruction in the region. Today, visitors can walk along wooden platforms through areas of natural forest recovery.
2. Wildsee and Hornisgrinde Area
The Wildsee is a glacial lake surrounded by moorland and forest. Nearby Hornisgrinde is the highest mountain in the northern Black Forest and offers wide views.
3. Ruhestein Visitor Center
The modern visitor center provides interactive exhibitions about ecology, wildlife and forest development.
4. Moor Landscapes
Wooden boardwalks lead through raised bog areas, allowing visitors to explore fragile ecosystems without damaging them.
Hiking in the Black Forest National Park
The park offers numerous marked hiking trails for different levels:
- Short family-friendly loops
- Medium-distance forest hikes
- Long-distance connections
Trails are well signposted and maintained. Always wear appropriate footwear, especially in wet conditions.
Wildlife in the Park
The national park is home to:
- Red deer
- Foxes
- Owls and woodpeckers
- Rare insects and amphibians
Wildlife sightings are possible but not guaranteed. Early morning and quiet areas increase chances.
There is a great museum about the nature in the National Park
Best Time to Visit
- Spring: Fresh greenery and fewer crowds
- Summer: Pleasant hiking temperatures
- Autumn: Colorful forest foliage
- Winter: Snow-covered landscapes and quiet atmosphere
Each season offers a different perspective of the forest ecosystem.
The visitor centre of the National Park Black Forest
Winter in the National Park
In winter, parts of the park are covered in snow. Activities include:
- Winter hiking
- Snowshoeing
- Cross-country skiing on designated routes
Check weather conditions before visiting.
How to Get There
By car
Parking is available at main access points such as Ruhestein and Baiersbronn.
Some roads go through the new Black Forest National Park. There are car parks for hikers.
By public transport
Regional buses connect nearby towns to park entry points, though service may be limited.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Authentic natural landscapes
- Well-maintained trails
- Educational visitor center
- Less crowded than Alpine parks
Cons
- Limited public transport options
- No dramatic Alpine peaks
- Weather can change quickly
Is the Black Forest National Park Worth Visiting?
Yes. The Black Forest National Park offers a quieter and more ecological perspective on the Schwarzwald. It is ideal for travelers who enjoy hiking, forest landscapes and learning about natural ecosystems. While it does not offer high alpine drama, it provides authentic wilderness within easy reach of cities like Baden-Baden and Karlsruhe.
Hotels near the Black Forest National Park
Find guesthouses and hotels in Baiersbronn, Freudenstadt and surrounding areas.