Best lakes around Schmiedefeld are situated within the Thuringian Forest, a region recognized for its natural beauty and extensive hiking trails. Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig is a state-recognized resort located in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, characterized by diverse landscapes. The area provides unspoiled nature, including clear streams and mountain meadows, offering an environment for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore numerous well-signposted hiking trails and natural features.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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Very beautiful view of the reservoir, worth a stop.
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Small pond that you pass on the hiking trail
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The 5.7-kilometer-long Fairy Tale Trail not only tells tree stories and legends from the region at 13 stations, but also leads past natural beauties like this small Franconian Forest pond.
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From below and from above: Very impressive!
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On a clear blue day with sunshine, this view is absolutely breathtaking :) We highly recommend everyone stop by ☀️
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This was our starting point for the circular tour. Amazing from below, it looks even more impressive from above! Looking down gives you a thrill :) The dam is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. A stamping station is available for tours.
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The dam is rather unspectacular. The path along the west side of the reservoir is also not worth the effort. The view of the lake is usually blocked by trees, even in winter, as the trees are so densely packed that the trunks obscure the view.
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Visitors frequently enjoy the Leibis-Lichte Dam, a significant man-made monument with facilities and viewpoints. Another favorite is Wächtersteich with shelter, a tranquil moor lake known for its quiet views and diverse wildlife. The Schneiderfelsen - Touring stamp 169 also offers stunning views of the Leibis-Lichte Dam.
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. The Leibis-Lichte Dam is considered family-friendly and offers a circular hiking trail. The Pond on the Märchenpfad Lauenstein is part of a Fairy Tale Trail, making it an engaging option for families. Additionally, Höllenteich and Wächtersteich with shelter are also noted as family-friendly.
The region around Schmiedefeld, nestled in the Thuringian Forest, is rich in natural beauty. You'll find diverse landscapes including crystal-clear spring streams, mountain meadows, and dense forests. The lakes themselves range from large reservoirs like the Leibis-Lichte Dam to secluded moor lakes such as Wächtersteich with shelter, which is known for its wildlife including newts and dragonflies. Old rafting ponds like Höllenteich also showcase unique geological features like iron ocher formations.
Absolutely. The area is renowned for its extensive network of well-signposted hiking trails. For instance, a circular hiking trail of about 20 kilometers surrounds the Leibis-Lichte Dam. The Pond on the Märchenpfad Lauenstein is located along a 5.7-kilometer Fairy Tale Trail. You can find more hiking options in the region by visiting our Hiking around Schmiedefeld guide.
Beyond hiking, the Thuringian Forest offers various outdoor pursuits. You can explore numerous jogging routes, with options like the 'Bornhügel Trail in Naturpark Thüringer Wald' or the 'Talsperre Leibis-Lichte loop'. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as the 'Owl Bench — View of the Leibis Reservoir' loop. For more details on these activities, check out our guides for Running Trails around Schmiedefeld and MTB Trails around Schmiedefeld.
The Schmiedefeld region is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer vibrant colors and pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the natural features. Summer is ideal for enjoying the tranquility and longer days, though specific swimming opportunities in the natural lakes are not widely highlighted. Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, suitable for winter sports, but access to some areas might be limited.
Yes, the area boasts several excellent viewpoints. The Schneiderfelsen - Touring stamp 169 is a highly recommended spot, offering extensive views of the Leibis-Lichte Dam and providing a shelter and bench for resting. The Leibis-Lichte Dam itself also features viewpoints, and the Pond on the Märchenpfad Lauenstein offers beautiful pond views.
Visitors consistently praise the unspoiled nature and tranquility of the region. Many appreciate the stunning views, especially from spots like Schneiderfelsen. The peaceful atmosphere of moor lakes like Wächtersteich with shelter, with its abundant bird sounds and wildlife, is also a highlight. The well-maintained trails and the opportunity for relaxation are frequently mentioned in visitor tips.
For the Leibis-Lichte Dam, there is a parking lot available below the dam wall, which is free of charge. Generally, parking availability varies by location, but many popular trailheads and attractions in the Thuringian Forest region offer designated parking areas.
The Thuringian Forest is generally dog-friendly, with many trails and natural areas welcoming well-behaved dogs on a leash. While specific dog-friendly amenities for each lake are not detailed, the overall emphasis on outdoor activities and nature suggests that dogs are welcome on most trails around the lakes. Always ensure to follow local regulations and clean up after your pet.
Some locations offer basic amenities. For example, the Leibis-Lichte Dam has facilities, and both Schneiderfelsen - Touring stamp 169 and Wächtersteich with shelter provide shelters for resting. While dedicated cafes directly at every lake might be scarce, you can often find refreshment options in nearby villages or along popular hiking routes.
Yes, the region offers trails of varying difficulty. While the Leibis-Lichte Dam features a 20 km circular route, there are also shorter, easier sections or trails like the 5.7-kilometer Fairy Tale Trail that passes the Pond on the Märchenpfad Lauenstein. Many forest paths around the smaller ponds like Höllenteich and Wächtersteich with shelter are also generally accessible for leisurely walks.


Still not found your perfect lake around Schmiedefeld? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.