Attractions and places to see around Langenbacher Forst include a variety of natural features and man-made structures within this forested region in Upper Franconia, Germany. The area is characterized by its expansive wooded environment, offering opportunities for outdoor activities. It is situated west of Bad Steben and features notable landmarks such as the former Dürrenwaiderhammer Slate Mine. The region's terrain includes valleys and rivers, providing diverse points of interest for visitors.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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The arched bridge of the Höllentalbahn, which ran between Triptis and Marxgrün, was in use from 1895 to 1945. After that, the railway line leading to Thuringia was discontinued. The Selbitz Viaduct is now a lost place.
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A remarkable wooden bridge over the Selbitz River and a very popular photo subject in the Höllental Valley. According to legend, the Prince of Hell was once seen on the Devil's Bridge.
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Hikers walk on the pipes that carry water to the power plant. On the trail along the right bank of the Selbitz River, you walk on 1.60-meter-high pipes, which carry water for 1,855 meters from the weir to the water tower and from there to the power plant. Sometimes the surface of the pipes peeks through.
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A wooden bridge over the Sebnitz, partly with different roofs, a truly magnificent construction.
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Very nice path, especially in autumn.
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On the Rohrensteig on the right bank of the Selbitz you walk on 1.60 m high tubes in which the water runs over a length of 1855 m (descent: 37.4 m) from the weir to the water tower and from there into the power plant. Occasionally you can see the surface of the pipes. In 2006, the Rohrsteig was opened to the public again after fundamental, expensive repairs.
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The railway bridge that spans the path was built from the diabase rock quarried from the Höllental quarry! 😉👍
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Rustic wooden bridge over the Selbitz!👍 We had a great hike through the Höllental! 🤩👍
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Langenbacher Forst is primarily an expansive wooded environment. A significant natural feature is the 👹 Höllental (Hell Valley), a natural gorge carved by the Selbitz river up to 170 meters deep. The area also features the Selbitz river itself, which flows through the valley, and various forest trails.
Yes, several spots offer scenic views. The Jungfernsteg — Covered wooden bridge over the Selbitz and the Teufelssteg — Across the Selbitz are both popular photo subjects within the Höllental, offering picturesque views of the river and surrounding landscape. The Röhrensteig Trail also provides wonderful views of the landscape as you hike.
The region features the Selbitz Viaduct (Höllental Railway), an arched bridge that was part of the historic Höllentalbahn railway line. This viaduct, in use from 1895 to 1945, is now considered a 'lost place' and offers a glimpse into the area's railway history. Additionally, the former Dürrenwaiderhammer Slate Mine is a geological site within the forest, though not a highlight on komoot.
Langenbacher Forst and its surroundings are ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and running. There are numerous routes available, such as cycling tours around the Ködel Reservoir or running trails leading to the Kurpark Bad Steben. For more detailed routes, you can explore the Cycling around Langenbacher Forst, Running Trails around Langenbacher Forst, and Road Cycling Routes around Langenbacher Forst guides.
Yes, the Röhrensteig Trail is a beautiful and relaxed hiking path through the Höllental, offering pleasant views. The Höllental itself, with its bridges like the Jungfernsteg and Teufelssteg, provides a network of trails for various difficulty levels. You can find more hiking options in the guides for Cycling around Langenbacher Forst and Running Trails around Langenbacher Forst, which often include paths suitable for walking.
Many of the natural attractions are suitable for families. The Jungfernsteg — Covered wooden bridge over the Selbitz and the Selbitz Viaduct (Höllental Railway) are listed as family-friendly. Exploring the Höllental with its bridges and trails offers an engaging nature experience for children. The nearby spa town of Bad Steben also offers recreational activities like Dream Labs - Premium Escape Rooms.
Langenbacher Forst is characterized by its expansive wooded environment. The terrain includes valleys, most notably the deep gorge of the Höllental carved by the Selbitz river, and features rivers. The trails can vary in difficulty, from relaxed paths like parts of the Röhrensteig to more challenging sections within the valleys, offering diverse experiences for hikers and cyclists.
The forest landscape and outdoor activities are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to autumn, when the trails are clear and the foliage is lush. Spring brings blooming nature, while autumn offers vibrant colors. While winter can be beautiful, some trails might be more challenging due to snow or ice.
Generally, permits are not required for hiking on public trails within Langenbacher Forst. It is a natural forest area open for recreational use. However, always respect local signage and regulations, especially concerning protected areas or private property.
Langenbacher Forst is generally dog-friendly, offering many trails suitable for walks with dogs. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in forested areas to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other visitors. Please clean up after your pet to maintain the natural environment.
While specific parking locations are not detailed in the highlights, access points to trails and attractions like the Höllental often have designated parking areas. For example, when visiting the Höllental bridges, you can typically find parking near the trailheads in the vicinity of Nordhalben or Bad Steben, which are close to Langenbacher Forst.
Yes, the nearby spa town of Bad Steben, approximately 5.8 kilometers from Langenbacher Forst, offers various cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Nordhalben, the municipality into which Langenbacher Forst was integrated, also provides local amenities. These towns serve as convenient bases for exploring the forest and surrounding region.


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