4.6
(10832)
40,618
hikers
220
hikes
Hiking around Naila, situated within the Franconian Forest, features diverse landscapes characterized by dense spruce and beech forests, rolling hills, and idyllic river valleys. The region includes sections of the historic Green Belt, offering trails through unspoiled nature. Terrain varies from gently rolling paths to routes with significant elevation gain, providing options for different hiking preferences.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.8
(50)
123
hikers
18.1km
05:25
500m
430m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(190)
610
hikers
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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4.5
(68)
235
hikers
9.59km
02:40
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(31)
87
hikers
7.36km
02:11
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(18)
71
hikers
10.5km
03:01
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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A very quaint river; it's hard to believe that a railway line once ran here.
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At the end of the path is a water tower connected to a pipe. You basically walk around on it. Here's the information board.
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you walk along the rocky path: great wild hiking trail over hill and dale, lots of views, lots of rock
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The stairs make the descent to the water tower less arduous
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You walk along the rock path here, a wonderful, wild hiking trail with lots of views and lots of rocks. Very beautiful!
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In 1933, a wood mill was converted into the current hydroelectric power plant. Along the right bank of the Selbitz River, the 1.60-meter-high pipes run 1,855 meters in length, with a drop of 37.4 meters, carrying water from the weir to the water tower and from there into the power plant. During the summer months, on Sundays and public holidays, and when the water level is sufficient, a 28-meter-high water fountain can be seen at the power plant, delighting hikers.
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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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There are over 200 hiking trails around Naila, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find everything from easy strolls to more challenging routes through the Franconian Forest.
The terrain around Naila is diverse, characterized by dense spruce and beech forests, rolling hills, and idyllic river valleys. You can expect paths that range from gently rolling sections to routes with more significant elevation gain, balancing accessibility with enough challenge. Trails often pass through thick forests and open meadows.
Yes, Naila offers several family-friendly hiking options. Many trails feature gently rolling terrain and shorter distances suitable for all ages. The region's diverse landscapes, including forests and meadows, provide an engaging environment for families to explore together.
Yes, many hiking trails around Naila are dog-friendly. The natural environment of the Franconian Forest, with its forests and open spaces, is generally welcoming for dogs. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and to respect local regulations.
Hikers can discover several interesting natural features and landmarks. The Döbraberg offers panoramic views, and the Prinz-Luitpold Tower on its summit provides breathtaking vistas. The Höllental Valley itself is a scenic highlight, featuring the Selbitz River and unique bridges like the Jungfernsteg and Teufelssteg. You can also find a mineral spring in the village of Hölle, offering natural mineral water.
Yes, Naila offers numerous circular hiking routes. For example, the Rock Path Höllental – Teufelssteg — Across the Selbitz loop from Lichtenberg is a popular moderate circular path that allows you to experience the scenic river valley. Another option is the Eulenburg Hill (678 m) – View of Döbra loop from Lippertsgrün, which leads through forested hills.
The best time for hiking in Naila is generally from spring to autumn. During these seasons, temperatures are pleasant, and nature is in full bloom or displaying vibrant autumn colors, making for a very enjoyable hiking experience. While winter hikes are possible, some trails might be challenging due to snow or ice.
The hiking trails around Naila cater to various difficulty levels. You'll find easy walks suitable for beginners or families, moderate routes that offer a good workout, and some more difficult trails with significant elevation gain, such as the VGN Nature Park hike – mining and the devil in the Höllental. The region's diverse landscape ensures there's a suitable challenge for most hikers.
The hiking routes in Naila are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 800 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's diverse natural beauty, from dense forests and rolling hills to idyllic river valleys like the Höllental, and the well-maintained paths that offer varied experiences.
Yes, a significant route in the Naila area leads along the Green Belt (Grünes Band). This former border strip between Bavaria and Thuringia allows hikers to experience unspoiled nature while walking through a historically significant area, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical context.
Naila and its surrounding villages offer various options for refreshments and accommodation. You can find cafes, pubs, and restaurants to refuel after a hike. For overnight stays, there are guesthouses and hotels available. Additionally, some trails might have huts or rest areas, such as the Mountain Rescue Hut and Rest Area below Döbraberg, for a quick break.
While specific public transport connections to every trailhead can vary, Naila itself is accessible by public transport. From the town, local bus services might connect to some of the more popular starting points for hikes. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on reaching specific trailheads.


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