Plankenfelser Waldlauf

Trail run with Franconian character

The Plankenfelser Waldlauf is organized by TSV Plankenfels and traditionally takes place on the second Sunday in July. The 15th edition in 2026 continues the tradition of one of the most distinctive popular runs in the district of Bayreuth, Bavaria. Start and finish are at the TSV Plankenfels sports center on Lindenweg.

Four distances for all age groups

• KNAX Children's Run – age groups U8 to U12 – start 9:30 AM
• 3.5 km short distance – from age group U14 – start 10:40 AM
• 10.7 km long distance – from age group U16 – start 10:30 AM
• Half Marathon – from age group U20 – start 10:30 AM

Route and character

The routes lead through the mixed forests around Plankenfels and the typical karst valleys of Franconian Switzerland: soft forest floors, root sections, ascents through the Truppach valley, technical descents between limestone rocks. The half marathon, with almost 400 meters of elevation gain, offers a real trail running challenge.

Schedule of the race day

The race day begins at 9:30 AM with the children's run, followed by the half marathon and long distance at 10:30 AM, and the short distance at 10:40 AM. At the TSV sports center, club members provide refreshments – Franconian bratwurst snacks, coffee and cake, non-alcoholic drinks. The award ceremony with medals for the top 3 in each age category and prizes for the winners of each age group takes place in the late morning or early afternoon.

Registration fees

Early bird discount until May 12, 2026:

• Children's run: €4–5
• 3.5 km short distance: €7–10
• 10.7 km long distance: €15–19
• Half Marathon: €19–26

Plankenfels and Franconian Switzerland

Plankenfels, with its 1,200 inhabitants, is nestled in the landscape of Franconian Switzerland, one of Europe's densest regions for castles and caves. Those bringing their families can combine the running day with a visit to Rabenstein Castle, rock climbing in the region, or a hike in the Wiesenttal valley. Plankenfels also hosts the Sound Therapy Festival – the town's sporting and festival culture coexist side by side.