The tower's design is based on the double-helix principle, inspired by the structure of DNA.
It is constructed from approximately 300 cubic meters of locally sourced Douglas fir wood.
The structure can withstand wind speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour due to its specific cross-bracing engineering.
The 240-step staircase is designed to prevent congestion by keeping climbers and descenders in separate lanes.
The project was largely funded by private donations and local municipal investment to promote the region's timber industry.
The Eichberg Tower is a 53-meter-tall wooden observation structure situated atop the 369-meter-high Eichberg near Emmendingen. Built in 2004, it utilizes a support structure made of local Douglas fir timber anchored by a concrete base. The tower features a total of 240 steps arranged in a double-helix spiral design, which separates ascent and descent traffic. Visitors reach an observation platform at a height of 42 meters that provides panoramic views of the Black Forest, the Rhine Valley, and the Vosges mountains. The construction was commissioned by the town of Emmendingen to boost tourism and highlight regional sustainable forestry practices. It remains one of the tallest wooden towers in Germany.
From the top observation platform looking southwest toward the Rhine Valley during the golden hour.
Bring binoculars to identify specific peaks in the Vosges mountain range across the border in France.
Check local weather reports for wind speed, as the platform is exposed and can become significantly colder than the forest floor.
Wear comfortable, flat-soled walking shoes for the incline leading up to the tower base.
Attempting to visit during heavy thunderstorms or high-wind warnings when the structure may be unsafe.
Open year-round, but access may be restricted during extreme weather events or severe storm warnings.
Maintain a quiet volume to respect the surrounding woodland nature reserve; follow the one-way system on the double-helix stairs.
