Bad Urach Waterfall Trail
A dramatic 37m waterfall in a forest, accessible via scenic hiking trails and a unique, steep stair climb.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More dramatic waterfall flow
Bad Urach Waterfall Trail
Best Time
More dramatic waterfall flow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic 37m waterfall in a forest, accessible via scenic hiking trails and a unique, steep stair climb.
"A beautiful waterfall with a small but nice hiking trail, best after rain!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be steep & slippery, especially near the water. Good grip is a must!
💧 Visit After Rain
For the most impressive water flow, time your visit after a good rainfall.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Waterfall
The 37m sheer drop
A dramatic 37-meter cascade plunging into a forest clearing. Best viewed after rainfall for maximum impact.
Steep Stair Ascent
Beside the waterfall
A challenging but rewarding climb up stairs alongside the cascading water for a unique perspective.
Forest Hiking Trails
Surrounding forest
Explore well-marked paths through the scenic forest, offering peaceful walks and beautiful natural surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Waterfall
Footwear and Trail Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be steep & slippery, especially near the water. Good grip is a must!
💧 Visit After Rain
For the most impressive water flow, time your visit after a good rainfall.
On today's bike ride I saw some crazy nice small towns. - somewhere near Bad Urach - Baden Württemberg
🅿️ Free Parking Option
Look for the free parking lot just after crossing the train line on the right.
🚶♀️ Consider the Loop Trail
The 10km loop to Güter waterfall offers a longer, rewarding hike.
Best day trips from Stuttgart?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be steep & slippery, especially near the water. Good grip is a must!
💧 Visit After Rain
For the most impressive water flow, time your visit after a good rainfall.
🅿️ Free Parking Option
Look for the free parking lot just after crossing the train line on the right.
🚶♀️ Consider the Loop Trail
The 10km loop to Güter waterfall offers a longer, rewarding hike.
📸 Capture the Drama
The waterfall is particularly stunning on a sunny day with clear water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Bad Urach Waterfall for its scenic beauty and the unique hiking experience, especially the steep stairs alongside the cascade. Many recommend visiting after rain for the most impressive water flow. Some find it a bit overrated during dry spells or when crowded, suggesting weekdays or post-rain visits for the best experience.
"A beautiful waterfall with a small but nice hiking trail. But be careful when you walk up the stairs toward the fall, as it can be slippery. The water is crystal clear."
J H (TEA TlME)
"Very nice waterfall. Depending on the route you go up or down beside the waterfall and the stairs where the water runs across. Path is steep sometimes so you do need good legs to complete the route."
Pieter Versteijnen
"Trek was good and a very peaceful place. Will have lot of dog lovers in this place. Since we visited during summer water was less. But if it was other than summer it would have been an awesome experience."
Kushal K.S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Bad Urach by train from Stuttgart (approx. 1 hour). From the Bad Urach train station, it's a pleasant walk to the waterfall trail.
Yes, there is paid parking (P23 for 5 euros). However, a free parking lot is available just after crossing the train line on the right side. Arrive early for the free spot.
There are multiple routes. A shorter 2km path leads to the bottom, or a steeper 600m climb with stairs takes you to the top. A 10km loop trail also connects to Güter waterfall.
The main trail is generally accessible, but the stairs beside the waterfall are steep and can be slippery, requiring good physical condition.
Yes, the trail is dog-friendly, and you'll often see many dog lovers enjoying the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Bad Urach Waterfall and its surrounding trails is free.
The waterfall and trails are open year-round during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times.
The main parking lot (P23) charges a fee (around 5 euros), but a free parking option is available nearby.
Weekdays, especially in the morning, are generally less crowded than weekends or sunny afternoons.
While there aren't official guided tours for the waterfall itself, local tourist information might offer walking tours of the wider Bad Urach area.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
For a dramatic view, visit after rain. You can hike to the bottom or climb the steep stairs for a unique perspective.
A short hike to the bottom of the fall takes about 2km. The steeper climb to the top is about 600m. The full loop trail is around 10km.
Yes, visitors often describe the water as crystal clear.
Bring water, snacks, and wear comfortable, non-slip hiking shoes. A camera is also recommended for the scenic views.
Restrooms are typically available near the parking areas. Cafes and restaurants can be found in the town of Bad Urach itself.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The base of the waterfall offers a great view, and the stairs provide a unique angle. The surrounding forest also offers beautiful shots.
Early mornings on a sunny day provide soft light and fewer people. After rain, the waterfall's power is at its peak for dramatic shots.
Use a slower shutter speed to create a silky smooth effect of the falling water. A tripod can help achieve this.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local drone laws and any specific restrictions for the area before flying.
For the waterfall, consider an aperture of f/8 to f/16 for good depth of field and a shutter speed that creates motion blur.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as facilities can be limited directly on the trail. The surrounding forest provides a great space for kids to explore and burn off energy. Visiting on a weekday morning can help avoid overwhelming crowds, making the experience more enjoyable for younger ones. Remember to dress children in sturdy shoes as well!
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Bring your own food and water to save on expenses. Public transport from nearby cities like Stuttgart is also relatively affordable, making it an accessible day trip without a car. The natural beauty and hiking opportunities provide significant value for no cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
Beyond the immediate waterfall area, well-marked hiking trails wind through the surrounding Swabian Jura forest. These paths are generally well-maintained and offer a peaceful escape into nature. A popular option is the 10km loop that connects the waterfall to the nearby Güter waterfall, providing a more extensive hiking experience. The trails are clearly marked, but it's always wise to have a map or use a navigation app, especially if venturing onto less-trafficked paths.
Key Takeaway: Prioritize safety by wearing appropriate footwear and being mindful of slippery conditions, particularly on the stairs. The trails cater to various fitness levels, so choose a route that suits your comfort and ability.
Experiencing the Waterfall's Majesty
Many visitors recommend timing your visit to coincide with periods of higher water flow for the most impactful experience. This often means visiting in spring or after significant rainfall. Even with less water, the surrounding forest and the unique stair climb offer a memorable experience. The peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekdays, allows for a more immersive appreciation of the natural surroundings.
Pro Tip: If you're aiming for the most dramatic waterfall views, check the local weather forecast and plan your visit accordingly. Even a moderate amount of rain can make a significant difference to the waterfall's grandeur.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit