When do the forests change colour on the Feldberg?

Usually from mid-October to early November, depending on the weather. At higher elevations the colour change begins a little earlier.

Is the Feldberg worth it in autumn?

Very much so. Clear long-distance views, colourful forests and empty trails make autumn one of the most beautiful and quietest times of the year.

Can it already snow in autumn?

Yes, at the highest elevations early snow is possible from November. Check current conditions before longer tours.

Feldberg in Autumn: Golden Forests, Clear Views, Calm

Autumn is the quietest and one of the finest seasons on the Feldberg: golden beeches among deep-green firs, the clearest long-distance views of the year — from the Seebuck often as far as the Alps — and empty trails now the summer bustle has gone. In return it asks for shorter-day planning and weatherproof clothing.

At a glance

Leaf colour: Usually mid-October to early November
Long-distance views: The clearest of the year — Vosges, Jura, Alps
Crowds: Quietest season of the year — empty trails
Classic loops: Feldbergsteig, summit circuit (Gipfelrundweg), Felsenweg
Plan for: Short days, changeable weather, early snow

Autumn on the Feldberg — the underrated insider tip

When the summer bustle is over and the first mists hang over the valleys, one of the most beautiful times of the year begins on the Feldberg. The beeches glow golden, the firs stand deep green in between, and the air is so clear that the view from the Feldberg Tower often reaches all the way to the Alps. At the same time the trails are empty — in autumn the Upper Black Forest is almost yours alone.

We reveal what makes the Feldberg special in autumn and what you should keep in mind when planning.

Clear views instead of summer haze

Autumn brings the best long-distance views of the year. On stable high-pressure days the view from the Seebuck (1,448 m) reaches especially far. The Feldberg Tower has a viewing platform at a height of 45 m (reached by lift); on a clear day, according to Hochschwarzwald Tourismus, the view runs from the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau to the Zugspitze, the Mont Blanc massif and the Vosges.

Tip: the clearest days often follow a cold front. It is worth a glance at the weather forecast before you plan the summit tour.

Hiking in peace

In autumn the hiking trails show their most relaxed side. The Feldsee can only be reached on foot: the Seesträßle from the Caritas-Haus to the Raimartihof at the lake is 2.68 km long, takes about 1.5 hours and is rated “medium” by Hochschwarzwald Tourismus; there is no official circular route around the lake. It is especially atmospheric now, when the colourful foliage is reflected in the dark cirque lake. The accessible Feldberg summit circuit (5.78 km, about 2.5 hours, easy and pushchair-friendly, according to Hochschwarzwald Tourismus) offers the grand view, and for sporty hikers the Feldbergsteig (about 12 km) is a delight without the summer crowds.

You will find a complete overview of the tours under The Finest Hiking Trails on the Feldberg.

A few honest notes

Autumn is beautiful — but it does demand a little more planning:

Shorter days: In October and November it gets dark early. You should start longer tours in the morning.
Changeable weather: Sun, mist and rain can alternate within a single day. Weatherproof clothing and sturdy shoes are essential.
First snowfalls: At the highest elevations the first snow can fall as early as November. Check conditions before setting off.

This honesty is part of who we are — so you experience autumn at its best, without nasty surprises.

Enjoyment after a day’s hiking

Autumn is also a good time for food. In the region’s inns hearty Black Forest specialities come to the table, and a slice of Black Forest gateau tastes all the better after a cool hike. Anyone who prefers to cook for themselves will find regional produce at the weekly markets in the area.

The perfect base for autumn

In autumn a holiday apartment of your own is especially pleasant: after a tour through the cool foliage, the warm apartment awaits, your own kitchen for a hot soup, and the calm to shape the day yourself. And because the high season is over, the Upper Black Forest can now be enjoyed in a relaxed way.

Stay with us

In our holiday apartments you stay right in the Upper Black Forest — with self check-in, a fully equipped kitchen and a mountain panorama. Dogs are welcome. Booked directly, you pay around 7% less than on Booking.com.