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Places of interest #1 in Freudenstadt

Burgbach Wasserfall

4.8 · 2,107 reviews
A quiet and enclosed woodland retreat.
Burgbach Wasserfall, Burgbachstraße, 77776 Bad Rippoldsau-Schapbach
Interesting facts
1

With a total vertical drop of 32 meters, it ranks among the tallest single-drop waterfalls in the Black Forest.

2

The waterfall is situated in a unique geological transition zone where water erodes through harder crystalline rock layers.

3

A specialized viewing platform, completed in recent years, offers a clear sightline directly toward the plunge pool.

4

The local stream remains active throughout the year, though flow volume significantly increases following spring snowmelt or heavy autumn rains.

5

The site is accessible via the 'Wasserfallsteig', a certified premium hiking trail.

Overview

The Burgbach Waterfall is one of the highest free-falling cascades in Germany, plummeting 32 meters over a sheer granite cliff. It is located within the Black Forest near the municipality of Bad Rippoldsau-Schapbach. The waterfall is fed by the Burgbach stream, which winds through a deep, densely forested gorge before reaching the drop. A well-maintained trail system allows visitors to view the waterfall from both the base and a higher vantage point. The site is a geological highlight of the Wolftal valley region. The surrounding woodlands are primarily composed of mixed spruce and fir trees. The rock face over which the water falls is characterized by prominent layers of Bunter sandstone and granite typical of the Black Forest geology.

Photo spot

The dedicated viewing platform positioned directly opposite the cascade for a front-on view of the fall.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots, as the gorge path remains damp and muddy even after dry weather.

Carry a trekking pole for stability on the steep, uneven sections of the ascent to the upper viewing platform.

Visit during the shoulder season on a weekday to avoid congestion on the narrow forest paths.

What to avoid

Attempting the climb in open-toed footwear or immediately after heavy storms when the path may be slippery.

Etiquette

Stay strictly on marked trails to protect the fragile moss and fern-covered slopes of the gorge.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning in spring, when snowmelt maximizes the flow volume and the morning light hits the gorge floor.
Address
Burgbach Wasserfall, Burgbachstraße, 77776 Bad Rippoldsau-Schapbach
48.410, 8.335
Get directions
Details
TerrainWooded gorge with steep, rocky paths
Fall Height32 meters

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning in spring, when snowmelt maximizes the flow volume and the morning light hits the gorge floor..

The dedicated viewing platform positioned directly opposite the cascade for a front-on view of the fall.

Close by you'll find Burgbachfelsen, Aussichtsplattform Ellbachseeblick, Glaswaldsee.