Best mountain passes around Neuhaus am Rennweg are found within the Thuringian Forest, a region characterized by its elevated terrain and historic crossings. Neuhaus am Rennweg is situated at a high elevation, around 800 to 835 meters above sea level, making it one of Thuringia's highest towns. The area features extensive ridge-top trails, including sections of the Rennsteig, Germany's oldest long-distance hiking trail. These routes offer a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, serving as ancient border and trade…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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Going downhill towards Theuern, it rolls almost without pedaling and braking. Uphill towards Limbach, the changing gradients will probably make for somewhat uneven pedaling. Asphalt is okay so far, although there are some potholes in places due to the winter months.
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The Eisfelder Ausspanne, located deep in the heart of the Thuringian Forest, is a truly idyllic resting place for hikers and nature lovers. This hiking highlight, surrounded by dense forest and rich history, is a perfect place for a well-deserved break. When I visited the Eisfelder Ausspanne, I was immediately captured by the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of the place. The refuge offers shelter and an opportunity to take a break, while the well-preserved "mile block" tells a piece of the place's history. The name “Ausspanne” derives from the tradition of unharnessing the horses here during the difficult crossing of the Thuringian forest ridge. The Eisfelder Ausspanne is an important crossroads on the Rennsteig and offers hikers various route options. Whether you come from Masserberg or Waffenrod or visit the Werraquelle - this place is an ideal starting or finishing point for numerous hikes. The space itself is equipped with many benches and tables, making it an inviting place for a longer rest. Here you can relax, enjoy the silence of the forest and strengthen yourself for the rest of your journey. It is also a popular meeting point for hikers who come here to exchange experiences and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
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The Eisfelder Ausspanne is a large crossroads with a refuge.
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From Hüttensteinach, head towards Judenbach for 13 km with a 4-6% uphill gradient to the Wildberg saddle at 735 m. Can be driven quite well, as the gradient is even. In the opposite direction, it is certainly a great descent, which should nevertheless be enjoyed with caution the first time.
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Yes, you can relax here. In historical times, the horses that had been harnessed before the steep ascent to the ridge were unharnessed here. Therefore the name. From here you continue to the Werraquelle or the Eselsberg, if you want, turn off in the direction of Goldisthal beforehand.
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Nice rest stop to stay near Masserberg
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Junction in the middle of the forest between Masserberg and Waffenrod
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sorry, I don't want to make myself unpopular here, but with every review I read something about a steady rise that is easy to drive ... standard phrase? Regardless of this, you can enjoy cycling here, long climbs, just as long descents, corresponding differences in altitude. And almost no traffic. Everyone should get their money's worth here ...
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The most historically significant crossing is the Rennsteig itself, Germany's oldest long-distance hiking trail, which Neuhaus am Rennweg sits directly on. Sections like the Kalte Küche are particularly notable, featuring the historic Kurfürstenstein and marking the border between Thuringia and Bavaria. The Vachaer Stein also commemorates an ancient pass reputedly used by Napoleon.
Yes, several spots offer excellent views. View from Kohlberg, located at a pass near Schnett, provides panoramic views across the Thuringian Forest and even as far as the Thuringian Rhön. Additionally, Plänckners Aussicht, the highest point on the Rennsteig, offers expansive vistas of the surrounding landscape.
The region around Neuhaus am Rennweg is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive hiking along the Rennsteig, cycling on routes like those found in the Road Cycling Routes around Neuhaus am Rennweg guide, or even gravel biking as detailed in the Gravel biking around Neuhaus am Rennweg guide. In winter, cross-country skiing is also popular.
Many sections of the Rennsteig and surrounding trails are suitable for families. For instance, the Eisfelder Resting Place is categorized as family-friendly and offers a solid shelter, making it a good stop for a break. For easy hikes, you can explore options in the Easy hikes around Neuhaus am Rennweg guide.
The best time for hiking and cycling around Neuhaus am Rennweg is generally from spring through autumn (May to October) when the weather is mild and the trails are clear. The Thuringian Forest is also beautiful in winter for cross-country skiing, but some passes might be challenging for hiking due to snow and ice.
The Eisfelder Resting Place is a notable spot. It's a hut that historically served as a resting point for horses on the Rennsteig and offers a solid shelter for visitors today. It's also known for a well-preserved "Milestone Block" and is near the Werra spring for fresh water.
Yes, Neumannsgrund is highlighted by the komoot community for its cycling opportunities. It features long climbs and descents with corresponding altitude differences and is known for having almost no traffic, making it ideal for an undisturbed ride.
The terrain around Neuhaus am Rennweg, particularly along the Rennsteig, involves continuous elevated pathways through dense forests and open mountain meadows. You can expect long climbs and descents, with significant altitude differences, as seen at places like Neumannsgrund. The region is characterized by its high elevation, with Neuhaus am Rennweg itself being one of Thuringia's highest towns.
The Mountain Road Between Gießübel and Schwalbenhaupt is highly rated for its excellent asphalt and sweeping combination of curves, making it enjoyable for cyclists both uphill and downhill. Similarly, the road leading to View from Kohlberg also offers excellent road surface with an average gradient of 5.6%.
The Hüttensteinach–Wildberg Pass Road offers a consistent uphill gradient of 4-6% over 13 km from Hüttensteinach towards Judenbach to the Wildberg saddle at 735 m. This even gradient makes it quite manageable and suitable for training rides.
No, hiking permits are generally not required for public trails in the Thuringian Forest, including those around Neuhaus am Rennweg. Visitors are free to explore the extensive network of paths, including the Rennsteig, responsibly.
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of natural beauty, rich historical context, and diverse recreational opportunities. The panoramic views from spots like View from Kohlberg, the tangible connection to history along the Rennsteig, and the well-maintained trails for hiking and cycling are often highlighted. The community has contributed over 1200 upvotes and 390 photos, indicating a high level of satisfaction.


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