Feldberg

The Feldberg is the highest mountain in Germany's Black Forest and in the state of Baden-Württemberg, rising to about 1,494 meters (4,902 feet). Its bald, grassy summit offers views that on clear days stretch from the Vosges in France to the Swiss Alps, while the glacial Feldsee lake hides in a deep basin below. A cable car makes the top easy to reach, which is why it is one of the classic day trips from Freiburg.

Why the Feldberg Is Special

Unlike most German hills, the Feldberg rises above the tree line, giving it an almost alpine feel. Ice Age glaciers shaped the landscape and carved out the Feldsee, a lake about 33 meters (108 feet) deep. The surrounding nature reserve is the oldest and largest in Baden-Württemberg.

The mountain also has a place in skiing history: in 1891 a French diplomat, Raymond Pilet, is said to have been the first person to climb it on skis. Today it is the Black Forest's best-known ski area in winter and a hiking destination the rest of the year. Expect a harsh climate, with an average annual temperature of only about 4 °C (39 °F).

Things to Do on the Feldberg

• Ride the Feldbergbahn: The cable car carries you up to the Seebuck, a 1,449-meter sub-summit.
• Climb the Feldberg Tower: This former broadcasting tower has a viewing platform on the 11th floor, reachable by elevator. In good weather you can see Alpine peaks from the Zugspitze to Mont Blanc. Inside, a small museum explains how Black Forest ham was traditionally smoked.
• Walk to the true summit: A wide path crosses the open plateau from the Seebuck to the highest point, about 2 km (1.2 miles) away.
• Hike down to the Feldsee: Trails lead to the dark glacial lake framed by steep cliffs.
• Visit the Haus der Natur: The nature center explains the plants and wildlife of the reserve.

Tickets and Opening Hours

The mountain itself is free to explore. As of October 2026, the cable car runs daily 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through November 30 (until 5 p.m. in July and August), and the tower closes 30 minutes earlier; the tower is closed in winter. A round trip including tower entry costs €19 for adults and €10 for children; kids born in 2021 or later ride free. A combo ticket with the Haus der Natur costs €23. The cable car stops in strong winds, so check before you go. Prices are in euros.

How to Get to the Feldberg

The Feldberg is about 50 minutes by car from Freiburg via Titisee. Without a car, take a regional train from Freiburg toward Seebrugg to Feldberg-Bärental, Germany's highest standard-gauge station, then the hourly bus 7300 to the Feldberger Hof stop. The Deutschlandticket is valid on regional trains, and many local hotels provide a KONUS guest card that makes the bus free. A large parking garage at the Seebuck has about 1,200 spaces.

From Zurich or Basel, the Feldberg makes an easy day trip across the border; from Frankfurt or Stuttgart, it works best combined with an overnight stay at Titisee or in Freiburg.

Is the Feldberg Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially on a clear day, when the Alpine panorama is spectacular. Families can enjoy the gentle plateau walk, and the tower elevator and disability discounts on the cable car make the views accessible to more visitors. Bring layers, as it is often windy and much colder than in Freiburg. Combine your visit with nearby Lake Titisee for a full Black Forest day.