View of the Kinzig Reservoir – Rest Stop with Lake Views (Loop from Schömberg)
Introduction
This loop hike near Schömberg in the Northern Black Forest follows a moderately difficult route around the Kleine Kinzig Reservoir. The start and finish point is a parking lot near Schömberg. The tour is approximately 12 km long and takes about 3.5 hours. It involves around 290 meters of elevation gain and loss in total. The paths are mostly easy to walk – a mix of forest trails, well-maintained forestry roads, and some paved sections. There are no technical difficulties; however, a good basic level of fitness is required for the distance. As the route circles the Kleine Kinzig Drinking Water Reservoir, it lies within a protected area in the Schwarzwald Mitte/Nord Nature Park. Hikers are asked to stay on the paths and observe local regulations.
This charming hike combines the enjoyment of nature with interesting insights into water management. Along the way, you pass the following stations in sequence: the parking lot (starting point), the “View of the Kinzig Reservoir” viewpoint, the rest shelter, the Upper Weir (forebay), the rest stop with lake views, the Kinzig Reservoir dam, a view of the reservoir on the return leg, and the final “Reservoir View” shortly before Schömberg.
Station 1: Parking Lot – Starting Point in Schömberg
The tour begins at the parking lot in Schömberg, a small district of the municipality of Loßburg not far from Freudenstadt. Even here, on the edge of the Black Forest, the heavily wooded surroundings set the tone for the hike. An information board or signpost points the way to the loop around the Kleine Kinzig – often also called the “Water Trail,” as informational panels about water supply are installed along the route. From the parking lot, you follow a path that initially leads gently downhill through mixed forest towards the valley of the Kleine Kinzig stream. The surface is pleasant – partly gravel, partly forest path – and already allows you to enjoy forest scents and birdsong. After about 2 kilometers, you reach the valley floor and approach the reservoir.
Station 2: View of the Kinzig Reservoir – First Vista
After a few hundred meters along the lake, you reach the “View of the Kinzig Reservoir” viewpoint, which lives up to its name. From this slightly elevated panoramic spot, the first full view of the entire Kleine Kinzig Reservoir opens up. The water’s surface shimmers in deep green-blue depending on the weather and reflects the steep, forested slopes of the surrounding Black Forest valley. The intake tower in the middle of the lake is particularly striking – a white, tower-like shaft rising from the water. This tower is part of the dam’s technical equipment and houses, among other things, the overflow for excess water and the intake ports for drinking water extraction.
The viewpoint itself is equipped with a bench, so you can enjoy the view in peace or take a first short drink break. The path then continues along the shoreline. Gently ascending and descending, it hugs the slope, repeatedly offering glimpses of the lake through the trees.
Station 3: Rest Shelter – Break Amidst Nature
About half a kilometer from the first viewpoint, you reach the rest shelter, a small refuge hut at the side of the path. This rustic hut – built from dark wood with a bench inside – invites you to take a break. The shelter is located at a gentle bend in the path above the lake. From here, you have another beautiful, slightly higher view of the reservoir. Should the weather turn, the hut offers shelter from a rain shower.
Station 4: Upper Weir – The Reservoir’s Forebay
At the upper (southwestern) end of the lake lies the Upper Weir, a smaller dam that serves as a forebay. This forebay is a preliminary mini-dam that first impounds the inflow of the Kleine Kinzig in a small pre-basin before the water flows into the main lake. For hikers, crossing the Upper Weir offers a special moment: here you can look left into the pre-basin and the gorge of the Kleine Kinzig further upstream, while to the right stretches the large reservoir again.
Station 5: Rest Stop with Lake Views – Picnic with a Panorama
After about 8.5 kilometers total distance, you reach the “Rest Stop with Lake Views,” one of the most beautiful stopping points on this hike. It is a small clearing along the path, equipped with benches or tree trunks for sitting. Here the forest opens up, providing a clear view of the reservoir, which can now be seen almost in its full length. This rest stop lives up to its name: you sit elevated on the slope, looking down at the deep blue shimmering water framed by green Black Forest mountains.
Station 6: Kinzig Reservoir Dam – Impressive Structure
The main dam of the Kleine Kinzig is an impressive structure. With a height of about 70 meters from the valley floor and a crest length of approximately 270 meters, the dam appears massively impressive. Walking across the dam is a fascinating experience. To the left, you look out over the reservoir; to the right, the terrain falls away steeply into the valley of the Kleine Kinzig below. The sheer scale of the dam becomes particularly apparent here.
View of the Reservoir – Return Leg with a Vista
Behind the northern end of the dam, the path forks. Our route now branches off to the right, climbing uphill towards Schömberg. After just a few minutes, another view of the reservoir opens up at a bend. From up here, you overlook the reservoir from a slightly greater distance and height. The trail continues uphill, alternating between more open areas and patches of forest, until it approaches Schömberg again.
Reservoir View – Final Perspective
Before finally returning to the parking lot, you reach the “Reservoir View” above Schömberg, offering one last spectacular panoramic vista. This viewpoint lies at an altitude of about 750 meters and grants an overall overview of the Kinzig Valley with the reservoir. From up here, the lake appears like a blue-green ribbon winding through the forests. The last meters of the path then lead down back to Schömberg and the starting point.
Practical Tips for Hikers
- Trail Markings and Navigation: Parts of the route are signposted as the “Kleine Kinzig Water Trail.” An offline map or GPS device is recommended.
- Equipment: Sturdy hiking boots are advisable; hiking poles can be helpful in wet weather.
- Provisions: There are no places to stop for food or drink along the route, so bring your own snacks and drinks.
- Water and Protected Area: Swimming, fishing, and other recreational activities in the lake are prohibited.
- Getting There: Parking is available on the outskirts of Schömberg. Access by bus from Loßburg or Freudenstadt.
Conclusion
The loop hike around the Kleine Kinzig Reservoir is a true Black Forest highlight. Whether for panorama lovers, nature enthusiasts, or the technically curious – this tour has something for everyone. Enjoy your hike!