Frankenwald Wandermarathon

42 Kilometers Frankenwald

The Frankenwald Wandermarathon has taken place annually at the end of May or beginning of June since 2013 in the Upper Franconian municipality of Steinbach am Wald in the Kronach district (Bavaria). The route covers about 42 marathon kilometers and leads through what is arguably the most spectacular region of the Frankenwald Nature Park – from the historic Rennsteig down into the Haßlachtal valley and back up to the heights.

The Frankenwald

The Frankenwald is a densely wooded low mountain range in northern Upper Franconia, bordering Thuringia, and with over 200 km² it is one of the largest contiguous forest areas in Bavaria. Beech, spruce, and fir trees characterize the landscape, interspersed with high moors, stream valleys, and secluded clearings. The historic Rennsteig – Germany's most famous ridge hiking trail – runs along the northern border of the nature park and forms part of the marathon route.

The Haßlachtal Valley

The Haßlachtal valley, with its wild and romantic rock formations and the clear Haßlach stream, is a scenic highlight of the route. The descent from the heights into the valley involves challenging, technical sections, and the subsequent ascent demands endurance and fitness from the hikers. The route is open to ambitious hobby hikers – not a run, not a race against the clock, but a sporty experiential tour with classic hiking poles and sturdy shoes.

Limited Experience

The number of participants is limited to around 555 places – a deliberate decision by the organizers to preserve nature conservation and the hiking experience. Registration is via the Pretix platform in several tranches, each selling out within a few hours. Refreshment stations along the route provide hikers with drinks, Franconian bratwurst, fresh bread, cheese, fruit, and sweets. The atmosphere at these stations is legendary – often with live music and small stages.

Tourism Event with Tradition

The organizer is the Frankenwald Tourismus Service Center Kronach, the official destination organization of the region. With the Wandermarathon, they aim to position the »Frankenwald« brand nationally as a hiking destination – a strategy that is succeeding with annually sold-out events and growing recognition. The marathon is part of a series of other hiking events such as the »Frankenwald Hiking Weeks« or guided themed hikes around the Rennsteig and the Franconian Midland landscape.