Canyons around Bockau, located in the Ore Mountains, feature several gorge-like valleys and impressive rock formations. This region offers diverse natural features and viewpoints for outdoor enthusiasts. The landscape is characterized by scenic river valleys and unique geological structures. Bockau provides opportunities for exploring nature through its various hiking trails.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more gorges around Bockau.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
A circular hike with many attractive viewpoints through the idyllic, rocky Steinbach Valley in Johanngeorgenstadt, the town of the Schwibbogen (a candle arch). The Steinbach Valley lies north of the Johanngeorgenstadt districts of Steinbach and Neustadt. In terms of natural habitat, they lie in the eastern part of the Western Ore Mountains, whose eastern border is formed by the Schwarzwasser River. The Devil's Stones are located within the "Steinbach Valley Nature Trail." They can be reached via the "Steinbachweg" and "Schimmelgut" trails from Steinbach, the "Kanzelstein Circular Trail," or the "Graupnerweg" trail from Erlabrunn.
0
0
always worth a trip.
0
1
It's nice to hike here, no matter what time of year.
1
0
Beautiful scenery and a great route - but the surface is a patchwork, which is less fun.
1
0
A wildly romantic valley that is worth discovering; you feel a bit like you are in an Alpine gorge.
1
0
Very nice route with information signs about the area's past. Unfortunately, the asphalt is no longer the best and the racing bike gets a lot of shaking.
1
0
09/2022: Overgrown and steep, but rideable
0
0
The region around Bockau is known for its scenic river valleys and impressive rock formations. Among the most popular are Schwarzwasser Valley, which offers picturesque views along the river, and the adventurous Path Along the Steinbach to Teufelsstein, leading to extraordinary rock formations. Visitors also enjoy the secluded Oswald Valley with its beautiful stream.
You can expect diverse natural features, including wild-romantic river valleys, dense forests, and unique geological structures. The Valley of the Große Bockau, for instance, is described as a beautiful green valley with a scenic stream. The region also features dramatic rock formations like the Teufelssteine and the impressive Blauenthaler Wasserfall, Saxony's highest waterfall, which cascades over a steep cliff.
Yes, many of the paths in the gorge-like valleys are suitable for various fitness levels, making them great for families. The Große Bockau Stream valley, for example, offers accessible paths ideal for a relaxing stroll. While specific 'family_friendly' tags aren't always present, the general nature of these valleys often allows for enjoyable walks for all ages.
Generally, the natural trails and paths in the Bockau region are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature protection areas or when encountering wildlife. Some paths, like the Path Along the Steinbach to Teufelsstein, can be a bit damp and overgrown, so be prepared for varied terrain.
For hiking, consider the Schwarzwasser Valley for its scenic route along the river. The Path Along the Steinbach to Teufelsstein offers an adventurous experience with information about geotopes. Another option is the Valley of the Große Bockau, known for its beautiful green landscape and moderately rising paths.
Beyond hiking, the Bockau region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'Plush Toy Monkey on Tree loop' or the 'Old Bockau railroad tunnel loop'. For mountain biking, explore routes like the 'Zwickauer Mulde River Trail – Bockau Railway Tunnel loop'. Road cycling enthusiasts can enjoy longer tours like the 'Wernesgrüner Brewery – Glück Auf - To the Peat Cut loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Running Trails around Bockau, MTB Trails around Bockau, and Road Cycling Routes around Bockau guides.
The region is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and vibrant foliage. Summer is ideal for enjoying the green valleys and streams. In winter, when frozen, the Große Bockau Stream valley presents a particularly 'great sight,' offering a unique experience for winter walks.
Yes, the area around the Teufelssteine (Devil's Stones), accessible via the Path Along the Steinbach to Teufelsstein, features 'extraordinary rock formations' and is considered a 'significant climbing rock' and a 'character summit of the region.' Some trails, like those in the Oswald Valley, can also involve heavy climbs.
Visitors frequently praise the picturesque scenery and the inspiring natural beauty. They appreciate the opportunities for relaxing strolls and more energetic hikes along the rivers. The wild-romantic character of valleys like Schwarzwassertal (Black Water Valley) and the unique geological formations are often highlighted as particularly enjoyable aspects.
Absolutely. Many of the valleys offer excellent viewpoints. The Schwarzwasser Valley is noted for its great scenery. The area around the Teufelssteine provides dramatic vistas, and the Blauenthaler Wasserfall offers a powerful and visually striking experience as water cascades over a steep cliff.
While the focus is on natural beauty, some areas have historical context. The Schwarzwassertal (Black Water Valley), for instance, features an interesting mining trail along its route. The Oswald Valley is also mentioned as having 'a lot of interesting history' alongside its natural beauty.
When exploring, be aware that some paths, like sections of the Path Along the Steinbach to Teufelsstein, can be marshy or overgrown, so appropriate footwear is recommended. For longer hikes, consider bringing food and drinks, as amenities might not be directly at every natural feature. Always check local conditions before heading out.


Already discovered everything in this region? See additional gorges around Bockau for your next adventure: