Best waterfalls around Unterkirnach are found in a "source water village" nestled in the Black Forest. The area features several water-related attractions and is near one of Germany's most famous waterfalls. Unterkirnach offers a mix of educational water trails, serene lakes, and refreshing Kneipp basins. The region's diverse landscape provides opportunities to explore various water features.
Last updated: July 15, 2026
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Germany's highest waterfalls The unique natural experience Waterfall in summer Waterfall in summer Germany's highest waterfalls in Triberg are a very special attraction. Foaming and roaring, the water of the Gutach falls 163 m down into the valley in seven stages. Find out about animals, plants and special features of the waterfall area on informative boards and watch the many squirrels along the paths. The main entrance to the waterfalls is easy and quick to reach on foot from the city center. But four other entrances also offer you the opportunity to get to the waterfalls from all sides. Signposted parking spaces can be found in the city area. The waterfalls are illuminated in the evening until around 10 p.m. and offer a fascinating sight.
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Great flow of water
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Very nice old town 😍
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Beautiful and right next to the waterfalls
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Pure nature in the Black Forest. A cool experience on hot days.
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In 15-minute film contributions from a German-language television series, Tilmann Spengler introduces the culture-loving viewer to the life and work of important writers and authors from all eras. One of the people he honors as a "classic of world literature" is the American author of "The Old Man and the Sea" (to name just the most famous work) and Nobel Prize winner for literature: * Ernest HEMINGWAY (1899 to 1961). The contribution can be found in the ARD media library under the following link: https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/klassiker-der-weltliteratur/ernest-hemingway/ard-alpha/Y3JpZDovL2JyLmRlL3ZpZGVvLzcwNGI5NmQ2LWJjOWUtNGJlMi04YjM1LTlmNzBhYmZiN2NhZQ
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Pure Black Forest - simply beautiful here
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Unterkirnach, known as a "spring water village," offers several water-related attractions. You can explore the "Wie wohnt Wasser?" Adventure Trail, a 4.2 km circular hike that teaches about the water cycle. The Wildpflanzenpark features various Black Forest landscapes with watercourses and ponds. The idyllic Talsee, formed by damming the Kirnach stream, is a peaceful spot for nature observation. Additionally, the Kneipp Basin at Kirnachmühle provides a refreshing experience with fresh spring water.
The most prominent waterfall near Unterkirnach is the Triberg Waterfalls, located a short distance away in Triberg. Often cited as Germany's highest, these falls plunge 163 meters over multiple cascades, offering an impressive natural spectacle. You can access them via the Lower entrance to the Triberg Waterfalls, where paths are well-developed for visitors.
Yes, several options are great for families. The "Wie wohnt Wasser?" Adventure Trail in Unterkirnach is particularly suitable for children, with interactive stations explaining the water cycle. For a more traditional waterfall experience, the Waldrast Waterfall and Picnic Area is family-friendly, offering a romantic forest setting and a dedicated picnic spot. The Mini-waterfall of the Neuhausener Bächle in Kappel is another small, accessible option.
The best time to visit depends on your preference. The "Wie wohnt Wasser?" Adventure Trail is open from May to October, weather permitting. For the Triberg Waterfalls, visiting in the evening, early morning, or during less favorable weather is recommended to avoid crowds, as it's a popular destination. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery for exploring the region's water features.
Absolutely. The region offers numerous hiking opportunities. For example, you can explore routes like the "Uhustein – Stone Boar loop from Groppertal" or the "Breitbrunnen Inn – View of Maria Tann loop from Unterkirnach." You can find more details and routes on the Hiking around Unterkirnach guide page.
Yes, there are several cycling routes available. You can enjoy scenic rides such as the "Kirnach Cycle Path – Romäus Spring loop from Unterkirnach" or longer tours like the "View of the Black Forest – Brend Tower loop from St. Georgen(Schwarzw)." For more cycling options, refer to the Cycling around Unterkirnach guide page.
Visitors frequently praise the impressive natural spectacle of the Triberg Waterfalls, noting the well-developed paths and the sheer volume of water. The Waldrast Waterfall and Picnic Area is appreciated for its romantic forest setting. Overall, the combination of natural beauty, well-maintained trails, and opportunities for relaxation and education makes the area appealing.
Near the Triberg Waterfalls, you can find the Kaiser Family Memorial Plaque and Bismarck Memorial. This site includes commemorative plaques, such as one marking Ernest Hemingway's visit in 1922, adding a historical dimension to your visit to the falls.
While specific rules for every trail vary, many outdoor areas in the Black Forest are dog-friendly. For popular attractions like the Triberg Waterfalls, dogs are generally allowed, often on a leash. It's always a good idea to check local signage or specific highlight details for any restrictions before your visit.
Unterkirnach and nearby towns like Triberg offer various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Triberg, being a major tourist destination, has numerous choices ranging from hotels to guesthouses and restaurants. Within Unterkirnach, you'll find local establishments to refresh and stay, especially after exploring the local water attractions.
For waterfall hikes, especially around the Triberg Waterfalls, sturdy shoes or hiking boots are highly recommended due to potentially wet or uneven paths. Layered clothing is advisable as temperatures can vary, and a waterproof jacket can be useful due to mist or unexpected rain. Comfortable, breathable fabrics will enhance your experience.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Unterkirnach: