Black Forest Ostweg

The Ostweg, known in English as the Black Forest East Way, follows the gentler eastern flank of the Schwarzwald from Pforzheim in the north to Schaffhausen near the Swiss border, offering a markedly different experience from the more rugged Westweg to the west. The route winds through mixed woodland, rolling plateaus, river valleys, and quiet farming villages that carry an unmistakably Swabian character. As a loop, it draws together both the forested highland interior and the more open agricultural lowlands of the eastern Black Forest fringe. The terrain is steadily undulating with long, moderate ascents rather than abrupt technical climbs — demanding primarily in daily distance rather than in individual passages. Water is reliably available in towns and villages along the way, but extended forest sections between settlements require carrying sufficient supply. The eastern flank receives less rainfall than the western crest; late spring through early autumn is the prime window, though open plateau stages can be warm in midsummer, and winter snow and muddy paths complicate travel, especially in the northern sections. Waymarking by the Schwarzwaldverein — a distinctive rhombus symbol — is consistent throughout and complemented by signposts at junctions, but a 1:50,000 topographic map remains useful in rural stretches. Accommodation is available in guesthouses and small hotels in the towns along the route; advance booking is advisable in high season.

Distances, elevation and times are approximate; follow waymarks and local conditions on the trail.