Best canyons around Greiz are characterized by deep river valleys and hilly terrain in Eastern Thuringia. The region's landscape is shaped by the White Elster river, which carves significant valleys, and is bordered by the Thuringian Slate Mountains. These geological features provide gorge-like experiences and scenic landscapes for outdoor activities. The area offers natural environments with dense forests and varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Cave
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 • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Greiz
Around Thuringia — 7 stages through Germany's green heart
Thuringia CultureRoutes: hiking through history and nature
Gravel and road cycling in the Vogtland region
Spend time outdoors – active hikes in Germany’s Thuringia
Explore Germany’s Vogtland — loop Tours for keen cyclists
Through the heart of Europe – riding the Euregio Egrensis
The 11 most beautiful cycle Tours in Germany’s Saale-Unstrut region
Hiking and biking on the trail of the Reeves – Vogtland Culture Trail
Family fun on foot and bike — explore Germany’s Vogtland
Experience the sounds of nature — hikes in the Vogtland Region
A trail with constant ups and downs, offering many viewpoints along the Elster slope. It's a beautiful place for hiking!
0
0
It was beautiful here in early April. The entire forest was full of blooming violets, white wood anemones, and yellow lesser celandine.
0
0
The bridge leads over a small gorge.
13
0
Great place for an overnight stay...
2
0
Between Greiz and Elsterberg, the White Elster forms a wild, romantic valley in the area of the mouth of the Göltzsch river and further in the direction of Rothenthal. No hiker staying in this region should miss the steep, rocky slopes. This section is quite rightly called the Rothenthal Alps. Source: https://www.natuerlich-vogtland.de/aktiv/rund-ums-wandern/regionale-wanderwege/poi/durch-die-rothenthaler-alpen.html
3
1
Nice path off the road.
9
0
A shoe factory stood on this site in the 20th century. It was founded by Adolph Zimmer. In 1923, he expanded the factory grounds with a building along Aumaer Straße. Chemicals were stored in this cellar. After shoe production ceased in 1990, the factory building stood empty. It was demolished in 2009 as part of the city center redevelopment. During the demolition, this grotto was discovered beneath Aumaer Straße.
15
0
The region around Greiz is characterized by deep river valleys and hilly terrain, primarily shaped by the White Elster river. You'll find impressive rock formations, dense forests, and winding river courses. Highlights like the Rothenthaler Alps feature prominent rock formations, while areas like Krümmetal offer romantic, pure nature with idyllic valleys and biotopes.
Yes, the region offers numerous trails. The White Elster river valley is popular for hiking, with routes like the "Elsterperlenweg" (Elster Pearl Trail) offering diverse scenery. For specific gorge experiences, consider exploring the areas around the Rothenthaler Alps, Gorge Near Eulamühle, and the Krümmetal. Many trails are intermediate in difficulty, winding through forests and offering viewpoints.
Most trails exploring the gorges and valleys around Greiz are rated as intermediate. They often involve varied terrain, including forested paths and some elevation changes, providing a good challenge for active hikers. However, there are also easier options available, particularly along the river valleys.
Yes, many areas are suitable for families. The scenic beauty and varied terrain offer engaging experiences. While specific 'family-friendly' categories aren't always assigned, the general nature of the river valleys and accessible trails makes them enjoyable for walks with children. For easier options, consider routes from the Easy hikes around Greiz guide.
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in natural areas around Greiz, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. It's always advisable to check local signage for any specific restrictions in certain protected areas or nature reserves.
The spring and autumn months are particularly beautiful for visiting the gorges around Greiz. In spring, the forests are lush and vibrant, with blooming wildflowers, as noted by visitors to the Gorges Between Gera and Bad Köstritz. Autumn offers stunning foliage colors. Summer is also pleasant, though trails can be busier. Winter can be picturesque but may present icy conditions on some paths.
Yes, several highlights offer excellent viewpoints. The Rothenthaler Alps are known for their vantage points on rocky outcrops. Additionally, the View of the Elstertal and Weiße Elster from the Wünschendorf Quarry Cliff provides a notable panoramic perspective of the river valley.
Beyond hiking, the Greiz region is excellent for cycling and mountain biking. You can find various routes in the Cycling around Greiz and MTB Trails around Greiz guides. The Elsterperlenweg is also popular for cycling. The Greiz-Dölau Reservoir is a local recreation spot, offering easy hiking and scenic views.
Parking facilities are typically available near popular trailheads and points of interest throughout the Greiz district. For specific highlights, it's often possible to find parking in nearby villages or designated parking areas. For example, when exploring areas like the Rothenthaler Alps, parking can usually be found in the vicinity of Greiz town or its southern outskirts.
The town of Greiz itself is accessible by public transport, and local bus services often connect to surrounding villages and areas. From Greiz, many trails along the White Elster river valley are within walking distance or a short bus ride. For specific trailheads, it's recommended to check local bus schedules for routes serving the smaller communities near the gorges.
Generally, there are no specific permits or fees required for hiking on public trails in the natural areas around Greiz. Access to the gorges and river valleys is typically free. However, always be mindful of private property and any posted signs in specific locations.
The Rothenthaler Alps are popular for their impressive rock formations rising along the White Elster river south of Greiz. It's considered a beautiful, natural hiking area with several vantage points on rocky outcrops, offering fantastic views and a unique hiking experience between the formations.
Yes, the Gorge Near Eulamühle features a small, somewhat inconspicuous tunnel. Visitors have noted it as a unique and interesting spot, often providing a nice place for a break during a hike.
The Krümmetal is celebrated for its romantic and pure nature. It's described as a beautiful, idyllic valley and a biotope near the city, making it a serene spot for hiking and even suitable for mountain biking.
Visitors particularly enjoy the natural beauty, the tranquil environment, and the varied terrain for outdoor activities. The combination of the flowing White Elster river, lush forests, and undulating hills provides a visually appealing experience. The opportunities for hiking, cycling, and discovering unique natural features like rock formations and hidden tunnels are highly appreciated.


Want to see even more gorges? See the best ones around Greiz region by region:
Already discovered everything in this region? See additional gorges around Greiz for your next adventure: