4.6
(3961)
12,135
hikers
295
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Schmalkalden are set within the diverse landscape of the Thuringian Forest, characterized by rolling hills, verdant meadows, and dense woodlands. The region features prominent natural attractions such as the mountain lake at Ebertswiese and the Trusetal Waterfall. This area offers a variety of easy hiking terrain, making it an accessible destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: October 3, 2026
4.6
(55)
151
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(6)
29
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

3.6
(17)
30
hikers
5.63km
01:39
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(13)
22
hikers
6.43km
01:46
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
32
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Popular around Schmalkalden
The Altmarkt forms the center of the historic old town of Schmalkalden.
1
0
The well-known Rennsteig high-altitude hiking trail runs directly over the mountain and attracts hiking fans of all ages. But mountain bikers, road cyclists, and cycle tourists also enjoy the distinctive ascents and descents on the Großer Inselsberg. Source: https://www.tourismus-thueringer-wald.de/aktiv/grosser-inselsberg-mit-aussichts-und-erlebnisturm
1
0
The historic old town of Schmalkalden enchants with its fairytale-like centre full of colourful half-timbered houses, a magnificent castle and many other sights – and all around, extensive hiking and cycling trails stretch out in the Thuringian Forest.
1
0
Located below the Herrenkuppe.
1
0
The Große Inselsberg near Bad Tabarz, at 916.5 m, is the highest, widely visible elevation in the western Thuringian Forest. It has marked historical borders for over 1,000 years, currently between the districts of Gotha and Schmalkalden-Meiningen. Source: https://www.tourismus-thueringer-wald.de/aktiv/grosser-inselsberg-mit-aussichts-und-erlebnisturm
1
0
In February 1537, Martin Luther (1483-1546) was plagued by kidney stones. It was precisely at this time that the great reformer was confined to his sickbed. He had traveled to Schmalkalden in Thuringia for a meeting of the Schmalkaldic League. It was therefore decided to hold the meeting in the house of Luther's host. The members of the League gathered around his sickbed. The League had been founded in 1531, in the same place, by the Protestant princes and imperial cities against the religious policy of the Catholic emperor. In 1537 - 20 years after Luther's 95 Theses and the associated beginning of the Reformation - the future of faith in Europe was discussed in this charming half-timbered house. Around 1520, the host Balthasar Wilhelm, a good friend of Martin Luther, had the representative building erected in a prime city-center location, right next to the ascent to Wilhelmsburg Castle. Luther was a guest here for almost three weeks in 1537, receiving visitors, preaching, and publishing his famous Schmalkaldic Articles, a kind of confession of faith of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Source: https://www.denkmalschutz.de/denkmal/lutherhaus-lutherplatz-7.html
1
0
The restaurant belongs to the hotel. The inviting beer garden is recommended.
0
0
Not particularly large, but a blessing when bad weather sets in.
1
0
There are over 170 easy hiking trails around Schmalkalden, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. These routes are set within the picturesque Thuringian Forest, characterized by rolling hills, verdant meadows, and dense woodlands.
Easy hikes around Schmalkalden typically feature rolling hills, deep green forests, and serene valleys. You'll experience the diverse natural beauty of the Thuringian Forest, with tranquil paths away from traffic. Notable natural features include the quiet Ehrental valley and the scenic Rötberg area.
Yes, Schmalkalden offers numerous easy circular hiking trails. For example, the Old Market, Schmalkalden – Steingasse, Schmalkalden loop is an easy 5.2 km path that explores the historic town center. Another option is the Boundary Stone – Post Oak on Grasberg loop, a shorter 2.8 km route.
Absolutely. Many easy trails offer scenic viewpoints. The Hachelstein Viewpoint loop from Asbach is an easy 5.6 km trail leading through varied forest terrain that provides rewarding vistas. Additionally, a hike to the Schreckenstein Tower offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Thuringia's forests and rolling hills.
Yes, you can. The Trusetal Waterfall, an impressive artificial waterfall created in 1865, is a significant landmark near Schmalkalden. While specific easy routes directly to it are not listed here, it's a prominent attraction in the region that can be incorporated into a visit.
Many easy trails in Schmalkalden are suitable for families. The serene Ehrental valley, with its wildlife enclosure and tavern, is a popular destination for family outings. The Old Market, Schmalkalden – Steingasse, Schmalkalden loop is also a gentle option for exploring the town and its surroundings with children.
On easy hikes around Schmalkalden, you can discover several natural attractions. The Ebertswiese Mountain Meadow in the Thuringian Forest heights is known for its enchanting flora and tranquil mountain lake. You might also encounter the Great Inselsberg in the distance, a notable mountain in the region.
The easy trails in Schmalkalden are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,800 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful forest atmosphere, and the scenic views of the Thuringian Forest. The variety of routes, from urban strolls to nature loops, is also frequently highlighted.
Yes, Schmalkalden offers thematic trails that combine nature with history. The Old Market, Schmalkalden – Steingasse, Schmalkalden loop takes you through the historic town center. Additionally, the region features trails like the Thuringian Lutherweg and the Altbergwerksweg (old mining trail), which provide cultural and historical insights.
Schmalkalden is beautiful year-round for easy hikes. Spring brings blooming meadows, summer offers lush green forests, and autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant colors. Even in winter, many easy trails are accessible for serene walks, though conditions may vary.
Yes, some easy routes provide views towards the Großer Inselsberg. The Aktea & Vital Hotel Thuringia – View of Großer Inselsberg loop from Grumbach is a 4.6 km trail that specifically offers views of this notable mountain.
Yes, the region has geological highlights. The Plattenbruch, a geotope in Kleinschmalkalden, offers insights into the region's natural history and can be found along routes like the 'Große Haderholzroute' (though not specifically listed as an easy route here, it's a regional point of interest).


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.