Top 6 Waterfalls around Viernau
Best waterfalls around Viernau are found in the Thuringian Forest, a region known for its diverse natural landscapes and hiking opportunities. Viernau, located in Thuringia, Germany, serves as a gateway to exploring these natural water features. The area's geography includes forested paths, gorges, and natural ponds, providing varied settings for waterfalls. This region offers a blend of natural beauty and accessible trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best waterfalls around Viernau
- The most popular waterfalls is Schmeheimer Pond, a lake that features a small waterfall. It is beautifully situated in the forest and serves as a starting point for various walks and hikes.
- Another must-see spot is Waterfall at Alte Ohrdrufer Straße Tunnel, a waterfall located near an old tunnel. The area is known for its challenging terrain, including rough asphalt sections.
- Visitors also love Lauter Waterfalls in Suhl, a waterfall. This location is family-friendly and offers a viewpoint along the Lauter river.
- Viernau is known for gorge waterfalls, forest waterfalls, and waterfalls integrated into natural ponds. These natural features offer diverse landscapes for exploration.
- The waterfalls around Viernau are appreciated by the komoot community, with 22 upvotes and 18 photos shared.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
Röllchen Gorge and Waterfall
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Lauter Waterfalls in Suhl
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(Source: Wikipedia)
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Schmeheimer Pond
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Steina Waterfall and Forest Path
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Waterfall at Alte Ohrdrufer Straße Tunnel
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Highlight: The bobsleigh track in the upper section
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Tips from the Community
Actually a nice climb, but in the meantime it gets very rough. The road is a single pothole, with 28mm tubeless it's somehow possible, but you have to want to put your racing bike through it (absolutely borderline). The rest of the climb is then again quite easy to ride, although the "bob run" irritated me a bit.
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...with fish and a small waterfall. Plenty of seating, good location, starting point for short walks to long hikes. just great
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The Lauter is a 10.5 km[1] long river over the Goldlauter in the area of the city of Suhl in Thuringia. It is nominally a (right) tributary of the Hasel, a tributary to the Werra, which, however, brings significantly less water to the union than the Lauter. Nevertheless, from a strictly hydrological point of view, the Lauter is not the main river of the Hasel system, since the Schwarza, which flows in from the right well below the Hasel, brings even more water with it than the Hasel up there, see here. (Source: Wikipedia)
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The area natural monument is a mountain gorge, as is usually found in high mountains. For a low mountain range like the Thuringian Forest, such a gorge is an absolute rarity. In cold winters, impressive icicles form and after heavy rain it is even more interesting when the water runs off the rock walls. ZDF filmed parts of the fairy tale “The Golden Goose” there in 2013. https://www.tourismus-thueringer-wald.de/aktiv/roellchen-tambach-dietharz
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A hiking trail leads past a rushing mountain stream through the particularly deep and narrow valley cut of the Wolfsschlucht gorge. Over millions of years the water has made its way through the porphyry rock. This rocky gorge makes the Röllchen the most important mountain ridge in Thuringia.
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Sturdy shoes, surefootedness and alpine experience are required for the route through the roller.
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This is a relative of the mountain gorges that are usually found in high mountains. For a low mountain range like the Thuringian Forest, such a gorge is actually a rarity. It is a small but fine mountain gorge with 60m high steep walls. The little Röllchenbach has cut its way into the hard rock and created depressions. The path is worthwhile not only because of the rock formations and the rolling water, but also because of the fairytale forest through which you can get to and through the gorge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of waterfalls can I find around Viernau?
Around Viernau, you'll discover a variety of waterfalls, including those integrated into natural ponds like Schmeheimer Pond, gorge waterfalls such as The Röllchen Gorge and Waterfall, and forest waterfalls like the Steina Waterfall and Forest Path. The region offers diverse natural landscapes for exploration.
Are there any family-friendly waterfalls near Viernau?
Yes, several waterfalls and natural spots around Viernau are suitable for families. Schmeheimer Pond is a great option, featuring a small waterfall and plenty of seating in a beautiful forest setting. The Lauter Waterfalls in Suhl and the Steina Waterfall and Forest Path are also noted as family-friendly.
What are some unique natural features to explore besides waterfalls?
Beyond the waterfalls, you can explore unique natural features like The Röllchen Gorge, which is partly alpine with rocky sections and chains for support, offering a distinct hiking experience and a viewpoint. Schmeheimer Pond, with its fish and serene forest location, also provides a beautiful natural setting.
Are there challenging trails associated with any waterfalls?
Yes, The Röllchen Gorge and Waterfall offers a challenging, partly alpine experience with rocky sections and chains to assist hikers. Additionally, the area around the Waterfall at Alte Ohrdrufer Straße Tunnel is known for its challenging terrain, particularly due to rough asphalt sections that can be demanding for cyclists.
What outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls around Viernau?
The Thuringian Forest surrounding Viernau offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Haseltal Riverbank – Schwarzatal Cycle Path loop', or explore MTB trails like the 'Knüllfeld Viewpoint – Hohe Möst Viewpoint loop'. There are also running trails, including the 'Viernau Nature Park Gate – Breiter Berg Shelter loop'. For more details on these activities, visit the respective guides: Road Cycling Routes around Viernau, MTB Trails around Viernau, and Running Trails around Viernau.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the waterfalls and natural spots near Viernau?
Visitors appreciate the serene and natural beauty of the area. For instance, Schmeheimer Pond is loved for its beautiful forest setting, ample seating, and as a starting point for various walks. The Röllchen Gorge and Waterfall is noted for its unique alpine-like rocky sections and a great rest area.
Are there any waterfalls that are good starting points for longer hikes?
Yes, Schmeheimer Pond, with its small waterfall and beautiful forest location, serves as an excellent starting point for both short walks and longer hikes into the surrounding Thuringian Forest.
Is there a waterfall near an interesting man-made structure?
Yes, the Waterfall at Alte Ohrdrufer Straße Tunnel is located near an old tunnel, offering a unique juxtaposition of natural beauty and a historical man-made structure. The area is known for its challenging terrain, particularly for cycling.
Can I find viewpoints near the waterfalls?
Absolutely. The Röllchen Gorge and Waterfall features a viewpoint where you can take in the scenic surroundings. Schmeheimer Pond and the Lauter Waterfalls in Suhl also offer great spots for views.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls around Viernau?
The waterfalls around Viernau, located in the Thuringian Forest, are generally beautiful throughout the warmer months, from spring to autumn, when the surrounding nature is lush. During spring, snowmelt can increase water flow, making the falls particularly impressive. Autumn offers vibrant foliage. Winter can also be scenic, with potential for ice formations, though trails might be more challenging.
Are there any specific regulations for hiking or visiting the waterfalls in the Thuringian Forest?
While specific regulations for individual waterfalls are not detailed, when exploring the Thuringian Forest, it's generally advisable to stay on marked trails, respect wildlife, and carry out all trash. If hiking with dogs, ensure they are kept on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas. Always check local signage for any specific rules or restrictions.
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