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Ilm-Kreis

Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig

Attractions and Places To See around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig are found within the Thuringian Forest, a region recognized for its natural landscapes and cultural heritage. This area offers a variety of experiences, from historic ridgeway trails to significant cultural landmarks. Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig is situated within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Thuringian Forest, characterized by mountain forests, clear streams, and serene moors.

Best attractions and places to see around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig

  • The most popular attractions is Kickelhahn Tower,…

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Kickelhahn Tower

Highlight • Viewpoint

On the Kickelhahn there is a lookout tower from 1855, a Telekom tower, a transmission mast, the Goethe house, the foundations of a hunting lodge and a restaurant. South of …

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At 978 meters, the Schneekopf is the second highest elevation in Thuringia after the Großer Beerberg (983 meters). From here you can enjoy magnificent views all around. Visiting the top …

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Neue Gehlberger Hütte on Schneekopf

Highlight • Mountain Hut

The Neue Gehlberger Hütte is located on the 978-meter-high Schneekopf mountain and is the highest-altitude serviced hut in Thuringia. It offers a cozy hiking hostel with shared rooms and a restaurant serving traditional Thuringian cuisine.

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The monument was created in 1981 by the GDR sculptor Gerd Ullmann on behalf of the state and was "as a monument dedicated to all construction workers to remove the windbreak and bark beetle damage 1946-1949 ...".
-Wikipedia (de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waldarbeiterdenkmal)

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Highest Point of the Rennsteig

Highlight • Summit

The highest point is a must when you are in the vicinity. An even better view is only a few meters further along the path along the viewing platform.

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Zoe von Rambling Rocks
May 26, 2025, Neue Gehlberger Hütte on Schneekopf

The Neue Gehlberger Hütte is located on the 978-meter-high Schneekopf mountain and is the highest-altitude serviced hut in Thuringia. It offers a cozy hiking hostel with shared rooms and a restaurant serving traditional Thuringian cuisine. Opening Hours: The restaurant is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – longer in summer. Breakfast for guests is served from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

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Imposing and monumental, “forest rescuers” were still honored back then

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You can't get more nature than on the 170km long Rennsteig. There are also a number of raised bogs to see.

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The Neue Gehlberger Hütte is open Thursday to Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday are rest days. I can only recommend taking a break here. The offer is very good. The proximity to the parking facility at the Güldenen Brücke causes a large number of visitors, mostly on weekends and when the weather is nice.

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Here at 978 m you have a really great all-round view of other peaks in the Thuringian Forest and the Rhön, up to the Ettersberg near Weimar and Oberhof. With very good visibility, such as winter inversion weather conditions, the view extends to the Brocken in the Harz Mountains, to the Schneeberg (Fichtelgebirge) and to the western Ore Mountains. You can also see the “Wilde Gera” (A 71) motorway bridge, the largest arched bridge in Germany with a span of 252 m. https://schneekopf.eu/ And if you want, you can crack the 1000 meter mark here on the observation tower for three euros. Diligence also has its price.

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This rest area is located to the right of the road in the direction of the hike. Here is a large crossroads with signs for various hiking trails. The Rennweg runs here via a bridge over Zellaer Strasse, where there is an obelisk. This point is also shown as a roundabout (in hiking maps). During the rest you can take a look at the forest workers monument. It is in honor of the people who, through hard work, saved the Middle Thuringian Forest after a windbreak in 1945 and the bark beetle plague of 1947-49.

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The monument was erected in honor of the people who saved the middle Thuringian forest after it was destroyed by wind in 1945 and the bark beetle plague of 1947-49.

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That is a decent achievement without a harvester and modern technology!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig?

Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the famous Rennsteig, a historic ridgeway trail, or ascend the Schneekopf Summit for panoramic views. The region is also part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Thuringian Forest, featuring mountain forests, clear streams, and serene moors, particularly beautiful in the Vessertal Valley.

Where can I find the best panoramic views in the Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig area?

For breathtaking panoramic views, visit the Schneekopf Summit and Observation Tower, the second-highest elevation in Thuringia. Another excellent spot is the historic Kickelhahn Tower, offering broad vistas over the Thuringian Forest. The Highest Point of the Rennsteig also provides impressive views from its viewing platform.

Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig?

Yes, Schmiedefeld offers several family-friendly options. The Schneekopf Summit and Observation Tower and the Kickelhahn Tower are accessible and enjoyable for families. During summer, the Waldschwimmbad Schmiedefeld (Forest Swimming Pool) provides a refreshing outdoor experience. In winter, the "Großer Eisenberg" transforms into Winterwelt Schmiedefeld, a family-friendly ski area with toboggan runs and children's areas.

What historical or cultural sites can I visit in Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig?

The region boasts several historical and cultural sites. Explore the history of mining at the Visitor Mine Schwarze Crux or learn about local traditions at the Wilderermuseum. The restored Bahnhof Rennsteig offers special steam train rides, and the Goethe House on Kickelhahn mountain is a notable cultural landmark. Don't miss the Forest Workers' Memorial, commemorating the region's forestry history.

What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?

The area around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, including easy, moderate, and difficult trails. Cycling is also popular, with options for touring and road cycling. For detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig, Cycling around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig, and Road Cycling Routes around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig guides.

Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners near Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig?

Yes, there are trails suitable for beginners. For example, the "Bierfleck Crossroads – View of Schmiedefeld loop from Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig" is an easy hiking route. Many sections of the Rennsteig itself are also accessible for less experienced hikers. You can find more options in the Hiking around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig guide.

What winter activities are available in Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig?

During winter, Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig transforms into a winter wonderland. The "Großer Eisenberg" offers a family-friendly ski area with blue and red pistes, a fun park, and a toboggan run. Additionally, there are numerous kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails and ski hiking paths, especially along the Rennsteig.

Can I find circular walks around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig?

Yes, several circular walks are available. Popular options include the "Vessertal Circular Trail – Adlersberg Observation Tower loop" and the "Rennsteig Meadow – Frauenwald Raised Bog loop." These routes allow you to experience the diverse landscapes of the Thuringian Forest. More circular routes can be found in the Hiking around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig guide.

What is the significance of the Rennsteig trail in this region?

The Rennsteig is a historic ridgeway trail spanning 170 km through the Thuringian Forest, and Schmiedefeld is directly situated on it. It's a premier destination for hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing, offering a unique way to experience the region's natural beauty and history. The Highest Point of the Rennsteig is a significant landmark along this trail.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig?

Visitors frequently praise the magnificent panoramic views from spots like the Schneekopf Summit and Kickelhahn Tower. The natural beauty of the Thuringian Forest and the tranquility of the region are highly appreciated. Many also enjoy the well-maintained hiking trails and the opportunity to stop at cozy huts like the Neue Gehlberger Hütte for traditional Thuringian cuisine.

Are there any unique natural formations or 'hidden gems' to discover?

Beyond the well-known peaks, you can explore the Brandstein-Tunnel, an approximately 20-meter-long cave winding through rock, offering incredible views after passing through. The pristine Vessertal Valley, part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, also offers guided hikes to experience its unique landscapes and serene moors.

Is there a place to eat or rest near the main viewpoints?

Yes, both the Kickelhahn Tower and the Schneekopf Summit have facilities nearby. On Kickelhahn, you'll find a restaurant. Near the Schneekopf, the Neue Gehlberger Hütte offers a cozy hiking hostel and a restaurant serving traditional Thuringian cuisine, making it a great spot for a break.

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Most popular attractions around Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig

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