The Black Forest in winter is a place full of magic: the air is clear, the firs are snow-covered, and you have the feeling that time is running just a little more slowly. No wonder winter sports have delighted so many people here for decades. As early as the 19th century, the first organised ski tours were undertaken in the Black Forest, long before skis became popular as sports equipment. Historical records report that the first skis were already used in Scandinavia around 1800, but only really spread in Germany towards the end of the 19th century.

Around Lake Schluchsee and the Feldberg, countless ways wait to experience winter actively, with enjoyment and still at ease – whether on the piste, the cross-country trail or off the paths.

Cross-country skiing – a beautiful way to feel winter

Cross-country skiing in the Black Forest is more than sport – it is a genuine winter experience. From a gentle walk through snow-covered forests to an athletic challenge on high-altitude trails, there is something for every level. Especially popular are the long-distance ski touring routes:

• Schonach–Belchen trail: Around 100 km long and a classic route for enduring cross-country skiers.
• Hinterzarten–Schluchsee: About 35 km long, ideal for day trips.

In the winter season around 140 trails with a total length of about 900 km are carefully prepared. These routes are not only certified by the German Ski Association, they are also uniformly signed, which makes orientation especially easy. Along the trails, small huts and trail houses invite you to comfortable pauses – and some even offer hot drinks and home-baked cake to recharge.

Fun fact: The first cross-country races in Germany took place at the beginning of the 20th century. Even then the Black Forest counted among the most important centres for cross-country skiing.

For anyone who wants to plan their tours, a look at the daily snow report is worthwhile, to stay informed about snow depths, open trails and weather conditions.

Skiing in the Black Forest – winter enjoyment between forest, space and feel-good moments

The region around the Feldberg offers skiers pure variety. Historically, the Black Forest is one of Germany’s oldest ski areas: the first ski lift was built on the Feldberg as early as 1937 – then still as a simple chairlift. Today the Liftverbund Feldberg connects several ski areas:

• Feldberg: At 1,493 m the highest point of the Black Forest. Up to 65 km of pistes and around 40 lifts are available. From beginners to experts – everyone finds the right descent.
• Hinterzarten: Small, charming and perfect for anyone who loves quiet.
• Fischbach: Only about 8 km from the Auerhahn. Natural snow pistes 600 m long with around 130 metres of descent – ideal for a few hours of piste fun.
• Saig: Comfortable and landscape of real beauty.

Highlight: The Hinterwald descent from the Feldberg to Todtnau – 9 km long with 736 metres of descent – is one of Germany’s longest valley runs.
Fun fact: The first skis were made of wood, often several metres long and without bindings. Only from the 1920s were bindings developed that could really adapt to the boot.
Current lift-ticket prices (as of 2025/2026): Adults: €42 per person.

 Sledging – winter fun with a view

Sledging has long since ceased to be only a children’s sport – anyone who has once raced down a slope knows how much fun it is. Especially popular are the slopes around Feldberg, Schluchsee and Todtnau.
Fun fact: The sledge as leisure equipment has existed for more than 400 years. As early as the 17th century races were held in the Alps – then on homemade wooden sledges.
Whether alone or with the whole family, sledging clears the head – and sometimes a sledge, a slope and the clear winter air are all it takes to forget everyday life.

Snowshoe hiking

Snowshoe hiking is a special experience because you can enjoy winter in complete stillness.
Snowshoes spread the weight so that you also make easy progress in deep snow.

Popular regions:

• Feldberg: Signed routes and guided tours.
• Schluchsee: Towards Fischbach, Äulemer Kreuz or along the gentle high paths above the lake.
• Herzogenhorn, Menzenschwand, Bernau: Snow-reliable areas for relaxed to athletic tours.

Fun fact: Snowshoes have existed for at least 6,000 years – originally in Siberia, to cross the winter landscape.

Equipment & hire – everything to hand

Anyone who spontaneously feels like winter sports will find numerous hire stations at Lake Schluchsee or on the Feldberg.
From cross-country skis to sledges to snowshoes, everything is available – modern equipment makes the winter stay comfortable and safe.

Forest bathing in winter – a gift for body and mind

Forest bathing, or Shinrin Yoku, comes from Japan and means “bathing in the atmosphere of the forest”. It is not about swimming, but about
being consciously in the forest, perceiving nature and coming to rest.Why forest bathing does particular good in winter:

• Pure air: Cold winter air is often clearer than in summer.
• Quiet: Fewer visitors mean maximum relaxation.
• Strengthening the immune system: Especially important in the cold season.
• Taking in vitamin D: Important for a good mood in winter too.

The special beauty of the winter forest lies in the details: frost-covered branches, icicles, the structure of the trees – all of this becomes visible when the dense summer foliage is gone.

Fun Fact: Studies show that even 20–30 minutes of forest bathing a day can lower stress hormones and clearly lift wellbeing.

In short

Winter in the Black Forest has many faces – athletic, still, glittering and sometimes also raw.
Whether on the trail, the piste, sledging or snowshoe hiking, forest bathing or simply enjoying the winter landscape
everyone finds their own winter moment here. And the best: after a day outside, warmth, quiet and a good glass of wine are waiting. That is what winter in the Black Forest really feels like.