Black Forest National Park

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The new Black Forest National Park: all important visitor information and the modern visitor centre in Ruhestein

The national park encompasses a huge and diverse ecosystem and is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers and anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the unspoilt beauty of the Black Forest National Park. In this comprehensive travel guide, we introduce you to the most important attractions.

Established in 2014, the Black Forest National Park is the largest national park in Germany, covering an area of 10,062 hectares. It is a nature reserve that showcases the region’s rich biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for outdoor recreation. The park is a testament to Germany’s commitment to preserving its unspoilt nature and creating a sanctuary for native flora and fauna.


Online tickets Europapark Rust: The amusement park is located in the west of the Black Forest near the Rhine and the border with France. After Corona, there is a lot going on again at Europa-Park Rust. Many visitors are therefore buying tickets online in advance at a lower price:  >>>  You can buy tickets online on the well-known ticket website Getyourguide
Nationalpark Schwarzwald.JPG
From Lucypleite03 own work , CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

The most important attractions and sights

Wilderness and forest landscapes: The park is a wilderness lover’s dream, with expansive woodlands, meadows and lakes. Whether you’re a keen walker, birdwatcher or just want to enjoy the tranquillity of nature, the park’s unspoilt landscapes will appeal to your senses.

Lothar Trail: Named after the devastating Lothar storm of 1999, this nature trail tells the story of forest regeneration after a natural disaster. It is a testimony to the resilience of nature.

Mummelsee: This picturesque lake surrounded by dense forest is a favourite destination in the park. Take a hike around the lake, enjoy the view and indulge in culinary delights at the nearby Mummelsee restaurant. Due to the unusual pH value, there are no fish in Mummelsee.

Some roads go through the new Black Forest National Park. There are car parks for hikers.

Wildlife watching: The Black Forest National Park is home to a wide variety of wild animals, including squirrels, deer, roe deer, wild boar and even the rare lynx. Observing these animals in their natural habitat is a special experience for visitors.

Information centres: The park has visitor centres and information points where you can learn more about the park’s history, ecology and conservation efforts. These centres are an excellent starting point for your trip.

Black Forest National Park Visitor Centre

The Black Forest National Park Visitor Centre is the first stop on your journey to explore the unspoilt and fascinating Black Forest National Park in south-west Germany.

The modern, new centre serves as an information, education and advice centre to help visitors make the most of their stay in this unique protected wilderness. In this guide we outline the key features of the Visitor Centre and show you how you can enhance your visit to the National Park.

Information Centre: The Visitor Centre is your main source of information about the National Park. Knowledgeable staff and interactive displays provide you with detailed information about the ecology, history, hiking trails and activities in the park. You can access maps, brochures and up-to-date information to help you plan your visit effectively.

Exhibits and displays: The centre houses a number of fascinating exhibits and displays that focus on the flora, fauna and natural processes that have shaped the Black Forest. These educational resources help visitors to better understand the ecological importance of the park.

Guided tours: The Black Forest National Park Visitor Centre offers guided walks led by rangers, providing visitors with expert insights into the park’s special features, wildlife and conservation efforts.

Activities for children: The visitor centre offers activities and exhibitions especially for children. These interactive exhibitions and educational programmes help young visitors to get in touch with nature and learn about the Black Forest in a fun and interesting way.

Café and souvenir shop: Refreshments and souvenirs can be purchased in the visitor centre’s café and shop. Enjoy a meal, buy local produce and support the park’s conservation efforts.

Wilderness Bridge: A bridge several metres above the forest that is accessible free of charge. You are in the upper area of the trees. You can go further up in a tower. You can see the trees of the Black Forest from above. Great thing, right in the Ruhestein visitor centre. No entrance fee.

Visitor Centre Black Forest Ruhestein National Park Opening hours 2024: 10 am to 6 pm, in winter 10 am to 5 pm. Closed on Mondays and some public holidays.

Visitor Centre Black Forest Ruhestein National Park Admission 2024: The visitor information centre itself does not charge admission. The exhibition costs 8 euros for adults, families pay 20 euros. We found the prices too high, even in the catering area. The car park also costs extra.