Nationalpark Schwarzwald: Where Wilderness Thrives
Discover the untamed beauty of Germany's Black Forest National Park: Hike through ancient forests, witness nature's resilience, and experience the wild heart of Baden-Württemberg.
The Black Forest National Park, established in 2014, offers a unique opportunity to witness nature reclaiming its space. Situated in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, the park spans over 10,000 hectares of protected landscape between Baden-Baden and Freudenstadt. Visitors can explore diverse hiking trails, from accessible paths to challenging climbs, and experience the beauty of old-growth forests, open moorlands and stunning vistas. The park's central philosophy is to allow nature to evolve naturally, intervening only when visitor safety is at risk. This hands-off approach fosters biodiversity and creates a haven for rare and endangered species. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous exploration, the Black Forest National Park provides an unforgettable encounter with the untamed heart of Germany.
A brief summary to Nationalpark Schwarzwald
- Schwarzwaldhochstraße 2, Seebach, 77889, DE
- +497449929980
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, as trails can be uneven and rocky.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and dress accordingly, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you're planning a long hike.
- Visit the Nationalparkzentrum Ruhestein for information on trails, guided tours, and exhibits.
- Be aware of the park's regulations, such as staying on marked trails and not disturbing wildlife.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From major towns like Baden-Baden, Freudenstadt, or Achern, take a regional bus (e.g., lines 400, X45, 200) directly to the Nationalparkzentrum Ruhestein. Bus tickets vary depending on the distance traveled within the Verkehrsverbund (KVV, TGO, or VGF) but expect to pay around €3-€8 for a single journey to a destination within the park. Consider a day ticket if you plan to explore multiple locations within the park, which may cost around €8-€15 depending on the network. The KONUS guest card, provided by many accommodations in the Black Forest, offers free travel on local buses and trains within the region, excluding ICE, IC, and EC trains and mountain railways.
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Driving
From surrounding towns, follow the B500 (Schwarzwaldhochstraße/Black Forest High Road) to the Nationalparkzentrum Ruhestein. Parking is available at the center and other trailheads, but spaces can be limited, especially during peak season. Parking is free at the Nationalparkhaus Herrenwies. Parking at Mummelsee can be heavily visited. Check parkplatzauslastung.de for parking availability. Be aware that some parking areas may have time restrictions. There are no tolls on the B500.
Discover more about Nationalpark Schwarzwald
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Badener Höhe
10.2 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene hiking trails at Badener Höhe, the highest peak in Baden-Baden, Germany, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Heiligenstein
16.6 km
Discover the charm of Heiligenstein in Baden-Baden, where stunning landscapes and rich history create an unforgettable tourist experience.
Großvatertanne
18.4 km
Discover the majestic Großvatertanne, the Black Forest's mightiest fir, a 300-year-old natural monument offering breathtaking views and tranquil hiking trails.
Hirschbrünnel
18.9 km
Explore Hirschbrünnel in Baden-Baden, where tranquil beauty meets historical charm, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Sintersteinbrunnen
20.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Sintersteinbrunnen along Baden-Baden's Lichtentaler Allee, a picturesque fountain offering tranquility and charm in a historic spa town.
Skulptur Honigbär
20.6 km
Discover the charming Skulptur Honigbär in Baden-Baden, a whimsical landmark on the elegant Sophienstraße, offering a delightful photo opportunity and a touch of playfulness.
Reiherbrunnen
20.6 km
Discover the enchanting Reiherbrunnen in Baden-Baden, a stunning Art Nouveau fountain and a symbol of the city's rich spa heritage, nestled in the heart of the Black Forest.
Skulptur Sitzender Braunbär
20.6 km
Discover the charm of Baden-Baden through the iconic Skulptur Sitzender Braunbär, a stunning sculpture symbolizing the town's rich artistic heritage.
Paradies Cascade
20.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Paradies Cascade in Baden-Baden: a harmonious blend of nature, art, and history in a tranquil ornamental garden with cascading fountains.
Brunnen am Jesuitenplatz
20.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical charm of Brunnen am Jesuitenplatz, a captivating fountain in the heart of Baden-Baden.
Kaiser Wilhelm Denkmal
20.6 km
Discover the rich history at Kaiser Wilhelm Denkmal in Baden-Baden, a stunning tribute with breathtaking views and serene landscapes.
Marktpl. 2
20.7 km
Experience the vibrant culture and history at Marktplatz 2, the heart of Baden-Baden, where stunning architecture meets local charm.
Willy -Brandt-Platz
20.7 km
Discover Baden-Baden's historical charm at Willy-Brandt-Platz, a square where history, architecture, and tranquility converge in the heart of the city, offering a unique glimpse into its past.
Michaelsteg
20.9 km
Discover Michaelsteg in Baden-Baden: A serene bridge offering picturesque views, connecting you to the city's rich history, culture, and natural beauty near Hindenburgplatz.
Neues Schloss, Baden-Baden
20.9 km
Discover the Neues Schloss in Baden-Baden: A historic castle with stunning views, undergoing transformation into a luxury hotel, offering a glimpse into the region's royal heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nature reserve Wilder See - Hornisgrinde
2.3 km
Discover the enchanting wildlife refuge of Wilder See - Hornisgrinde, a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers in the heart of the Black Forest.
Teufelsmühle
3.2 km
Explore the Teufelsmühle: panoramic views, hiking trails, and Black Forest charm await at this Loffenau landmark.
Nationalparkzentrum Ruhestein
4.0 km
Discover the beauty of the Black Forest at Nationalparkzentrum Ruhestein, combining nature, education, and adventure in one spectacular location.
Schwarzwaldhochstraße
4.0 km
Experience Germany's iconic Black Forest High Road: panoramic views, thrilling drives, and charming attractions from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt.
Mummelsee
5.6 km
Discover the tranquility of Mummelsee, an idyllic alpine lake in the Black Forest, perfect for relaxation, hiking, and scenic views.
Hornisgrinde
5.9 km
Explore Hornisgrinde, the highest peak in the Black Forest, where breathtaking views and serene hiking trails await nature lovers and adventure seekers.
All Saints' Abbey
7.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of All Saints' Abbey, a remarkable monastery nestled in the enchanting Black Forest of Germany.
Schwarzwald
7.4 km
Discover the magic of the Schwarzwald: Germany's Black Forest offers hiking, history, cuckoo clocks, and enchanting landscapes.
Unterstmatt Hochkopf-Lift
7.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling slopes of Unterstmatt Hochkopf-Lift, the perfect ski resort for your winter adventure in Germany.
Hochkopf
7.8 km
Explore the breathtaking views and diverse trails at Hochkopf, a stunning mountain peak in the heart of the Black Forest, Germany.
Allerheiligen-Wasserfälle
8.1 km
Experience the stunning Allerheiligen Waterfalls in the Black Forest, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hiking and photography.
All Saints Waterfalls
8.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of All Saints Waterfalls, a must-visit natural wonder in the heart of the Black Forest, Germany.
Hundseck
8.1 km
Experience exhilarating skiing and breathtaking views at Hundseck Ski Resort in the scenic Black Forest, a perfect winter getaway for all.
Bühlertallift Hundseck
8.1 km
Experience year-round outdoor adventures at Bühlertallift Hundseck in the stunning Black Forest, perfect for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.
Lotharpfad
8.6 km
Explore the stunning Lotharpfad hiking trail in Baiersbronn, where nature's beauty and tranquility await in the heart of Germany's Black Forest.
Essential places to dine
Wipfel - Das Schwarzwald Restaurant
7.6 km
Discover authentic Black Forest cuisine at Wipfel - Das Schwarzwald Restaurant, where tradition meets breathtaking scenery.
Restaurant Bareiss
7.6 km
Discover culinary artistry at Restaurant Bareiss in Baiersbronn - where fine dining meets seasonal delights in a picturesque setting.
Restaurant Schwarzwaldstube
7.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Restaurant Schwarzwaldstube in Baiersbronn - where fine French cuisine meets stunning Black Forest views.
Gourmetrestaurant Schlossberg
8.6 km
Discover exquisite flavors and stunning views at Gourmetrestaurant Schlossberg in Baiersbronn - where culinary art meets fine dining elegance.
Restaurant Schwarzwaldmädel
11.9 km
Experience authentic German cuisine in the heart of Bühlertal at Restaurant Schwarzwaldmädel - where tradition meets taste.
Berggasthaus Braunbergstüble
16.4 km
Experience authentic German dining with breathtaking views at Berggasthaus Braunbergstüble in Oppenau.
Wirtshaus zur Geroldsauer Mühle
17.5 km
Discover authentic German cuisine at Wirtshaus zur Geroldsauer Mühle in Baden-Baden's stunning beer garden setting.
Berghütte Lauterbad - HOTEL LAUTERBAD GmbH
18.6 km
Discover Berghütte Lauterbad: A delightful restaurant offering local cuisine amidst breathtaking Black Forest landscapes.
Restaurant - Café Röderswald
19.2 km
Experience authentic German cuisine in a picturesque setting at Café Röderswald in Baden-Baden.
Restaurant Klosterschänke
19.4 km
Experience exquisite German cuisine at Restaurant Klosterschänke in Baden-Baden—where tradition meets modern dining excellence.
Ulis Schlemmertreff
19.4 km
Experience the authentic taste of Germany at Ulis Schlemmertreff in Baden-Baden – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Wirtshaus Molkenkur Baden-Baden
19.6 km
Discover authentic German cuisine at Wirtshaus Molkenkur in Baden-Baden - where great food meets stunning views.
Fritz & Felix
20.0 km
Experience gourmet cuisine and fine wines at Fritz & Felix in Baden-Baden - where culinary artistry meets elegance.
Restaurant Wintergarten
20.0 km
Experience fine dining at Restaurant Wintergarten in Baden-Baden, where exquisite cuisine meets elegant ambiance for an unforgettable meal.
Schneiders Weinstube im Badener Weinkeller
20.1 km
Experience the essence of Baden-Baden at Schneiders Weinstube, where local flavors meet exquisite wines in an inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Schwarzwald Center
16.0 km
Discover Freudenstadt's Schwarzwald Center: A shopping haven with diverse stores and delightful dining options for every traveler.
Second Hand Shop
19.8 km
Explore the Second Hand Shop in Baden-Baden for unique vintage clothing and sustainable fashion choices, perfect for eco-conscious tourists.
Wohlfühlladen Baden-Baden
20.3 km
Discover Wohlfühlladen in Baden-Baden, your go-to destination for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and exquisite cosmetics amidst charming local culture.
Mont Blanc Baden-Baden - Lichtentaler Str.
20.4 km
Experience the elegance of Mont Blanc in Baden-Baden, where luxury stationery meets exquisite leather and watches in a picturesque setting.
Schwarzwaldmädels
20.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Schwarzwaldmädels in Baden-Baden, where the essence of Germany's Black Forest comes alive.
Kurhaus Kolonnaden
20.4 km
Discover luxury shopping and exquisite dining in the heart of Baden-Baden at the iconic Kurhaus Kolonnaden.
Wolford Boutique Baden-Baden
20.5 km
Discover luxury women's fashion and exquisite lingerie at Wolford Boutique in Baden-Baden – where style meets sophistication.
HERMÈS
20.6 km
Discover timeless elegance and exquisite craftsmanship at HERMÈS in Baden-Baden, a luxury destination for fashion enthusiasts.
Belle vie
20.6 km
Explore Belle Vie in Baden-Baden for unique gifts, exquisite cosmetics, and gourmet treats that capture the essence of this enchanting spa town.
AS Luxury and Vintage
20.6 km
Discover timeless elegance at AS Luxury and Vintage in Baden-Baden, where exquisite bags and leather goods await your exploration.
La Casa Boutique
20.6 km
Discover unique women's fashion at La Casa Boutique in Baden-Baden, where style meets elegance in a charming shopping experience.
Piccolino Baden-Baden
20.6 km
Explore the finest selection of souvenirs and exquisite knives in the charming Piccolino Baden-Baden - a must-visit for tourists seeking unique gifts.
ONLY
20.7 km
Discover trendy women's clothing and stunning accessories at ONLY in Baden-Baden, your fashion destination for stylish finds.
Fashion Wagener GmbH & Co. KG
20.7 km
Explore Fashion Wagener in Baden-Baden for a diverse selection of stylish clothing, shoes, and accessories for the entire family.
Must Have Baden-Baden
20.7 km
Explore Must Have Baden-Baden for trendy clothing, stylish handbags, and chic accessories in the heart of Baden-Baden's fashion scene.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Blockhütte
7.8 km
Discover the flavors of Baiersbronn at Blockhütte, a charming restaurant and beer garden offering local delicacies in a stunning natural setting.
Schwarzbrenner Needle Masterpiece
13.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oppenau at the Schwarzbrenner Needle Masterpiece, a local gem known for its cozy atmosphere and delightful drinks.
Turm-Brau
16.4 km
Discover the flavors of Swabia at Turm-Brau, Freudenstadt's charming brewpub with authentic cuisine and house-brewed beers.
Kleine Kneipe
18.7 km
Experience the charm of Kleine Kneipe, a cozy pub in Baden-Baden offering affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere for all travelers.
Oleandar Bar
20.0 km
Experience exquisite cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere at Oleandar Bar in the heart of Baden-Baden.
Waldhaus
20.1 km
Discover the charm of Waldhaus, a cozy bar in Baden-Baden, offering exceptional drinks and a perfect atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.
Griffin's Pub
20.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Griffin's Pub, an authentic Irish bar in Baden-Baden offering great drinks and unforgettable experiences.
Living Room
20.3 km
Experience the cozy charm of Living Room Bar in Baden-Baden, where delightful drinks and a warm ambiance await every visitor.
CaféBar Bruder&Schwester
20.3 km
Discover CaféBar Bruder&Schwester in Baden-Baden - a lively bar offering delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Armando's Bar in der Kreuzpassage
20.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Baden-Baden at Armando's Bar, where exquisite cocktails meet an energetic atmosphere, perfect for every night out.
Bernstein Club im Casino Baden-Baden
20.4 km
Discover the lively Bernstein Club in Baden-Baden, where stylish bar vibes meet an electrifying night club atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Equipage - dance, music and cocktail bar in Baden-Baden
20.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Equipage, a premier dance and cocktail bar in Baden-Baden, offering live music and a lively atmosphere.
Leo's | Restaurant, Café & Wine-Bar
20.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of Western cuisine, bistro charm, and exquisite cocktails at Leo's in Baden-Baden.
Sun-si-Bar
20.6 km
Discover the lively Sun-si-Bar in Baden-Baden, offering a vibrant atmosphere, diverse drinks, and unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Café Bar Trinkhalle
20.6 km
Discover the charm of Café Bar Trinkhalle in Baden-Baden, where café culture meets bar ambiance for a perfect relaxation spot during your travels.