Großer Riedelstein, Rauchröhren, Steinbühler Gesenke, Mittagstein and Kaitersberg Loop

Starting near Cham, Germany, the Großer Riedelstein, Rauchröhren, Steinbühler Gesenke, Mittagstein, and Kaitersberg Loop is a captivating 12 km (7.5 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of approximately 500 meters (1,640 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and diverse wildlife, making it a must-visit for avid hikers.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards Cham and look for parking near the trailhead. For those using public transport, take a train or bus to Cham and then a local bus or taxi to the starting point. The nearest significant landmark to the trailhead is the town of Bad Kötzting, which is well-connected by public transport.### Trail Highlights#### Großer Riedelstein The trail begins with a gradual ascent towards Großer Riedelstein. This section is approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) long and gains about 200 meters (656 feet) in elevation. The path is well-marked and winds through dense forests, offering occasional glimpses of the surrounding Bavarian landscape. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer and various bird species.#### Rauchröhren After reaching Großer Riedelstein, the trail continues towards Rauchröhren, a unique rock formation. This segment is around 2 km (1.2 miles) and involves a moderate climb. The Rauchröhren rocks are a geological marvel, formed over millions of years. This area is also rich in flora, with various types of moss and lichen covering the rocks.#### Steinbühler Gesenke Next, the trail leads to Steinbühler Gesenke, a picturesque valley. This part of the hike is relatively flat and stretches for about 2.5 km (1.5 miles). The valley is known for its lush meadows and small streams, making it a perfect spot for a short break. Historically, this area was used for grazing livestock, and you might still see some cows or sheep.#### Mittagstein The ascent to Mittagstein is one of the more challenging parts of the trail, covering approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) with an elevation gain of 150 meters (492 feet). The summit offers panoramic views of the Bavarian Forest and the surrounding countryside. There is also a small chapel at the top, adding a touch of historical and cultural significance to the hike.#### Kaitersberg The final section of the loop takes you to Kaitersberg, a mountain ridge known for its rugged terrain and stunning vistas. This part of the trail is about 2.5 km (1.5 miles) long and involves some steep descents. The Kaitersberg ridge is a popular spot for rock climbing, and you might see climbers scaling the cliffs. The area is also home to various bird species, including hawks and eagles.### Navigation and Safety Given the varied terrain and multiple landmarks, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be very helpful, especially in the more remote sections.### Historical Significance The region around Cham has a rich history dating back to medieval times. The trail itself passes through areas that were historically significant for local agriculture and trade. The small chapel at Mittagstein is a testament to the region's cultural heritage, often visited by pilgrims and hikers alike.### Wildlife and Flora The trail offers a diverse range of wildlife and plant species. From deer and foxes to various bird species, the area is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The flora is equally diverse, with dense forests, meadows, and unique rock formations covered in moss and lichen.This 12 km loop trail near Cham, Germany, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and diverse wildlife, making it an enriching experience for any hiker.