Dimbach Buntsandstein High Trail - now with even more attractive routing from the Immersberg

Not only for rock experts is this circular hiking trail a feast for the senses. Even less specialized visitors get their money's worth: colorful, bizarre rock formations line the approximately ten-kilometer-long hiking route, which mostly leads over the high plateaus around the little village of Dimbach. Like a composition of several acts, the high trail reveals itself, regardless of the direction you start from. Once at the elevation, the path winds for kilometers around huge rock masses. Those not suffering from vertigo have plenty of opportunities to climb some rocks via narrow paths and enjoy unique distant views from there. It is highly recommended to explore the immediate surroundings of the viewpoints, as branching narrow paths often lead to nearby secluded spots with hidden views. 

After a few sporty altitude meters, you reach the first viewpoint of the high trail: the rock massif of Falkenstein. After a detour to Kaftenstein – with a view of the village of Dimbach – the path continues on high ground, past impressive rock formations. A pretty Marian memorial invites you to a moment of contemplation on the march to Dimberg. After a short climbing section, an exalted view of the valley far below opens up from the summit of Dimberg. In warm, sunny weather, you are not alone up here: lizards scurry around and bask on the rocks. 

Back on the hiking trail, the next goal awaits: Rötzenberg with the mighty Rötzenfelsen. On the way, you also pass the Isselmannsteine. Good fitness is required for the ascent to Rötzenberg. But the effort pays off: on the rock plateau, which is closed to hikers and climbers from April to the end of June to protect peregrine falcons, you enjoy a magnificent view over the Palatinate Mountains. Here you can take a leisurely break and recharge for the onward march to the Kieungerfelsen. If you also pay attention to the rock formations on the way, you will notice changes in the colors and structures of the sandstone. Bright red tones and differently colored rock layers shape the picture on this light-flooded stretch. Upon reaching Kieungerfelsen, you might think you're somewhere in southern Europe: conifers emit their sweet scent, soft ground and flat plateaus invite you to a rest. Up here, you leave everyday life behind, enjoy the calm, and listen to the sounds of nature. 

From Kieungerfelsen, the path winds toward Häuselstein past huge moss-covered stones and rocks, on which you can partially scramble a bit. Between them lies the Horn summit, the ascent of which again requires good fitness. Having also left Immersberg behind, a seating area on Häuselstein invites you to a comfortable rest with a view of the valley. From here, a winding path leads to a quiet, secluded spot. 

Now it goes downhill again toward Dimbach. With the Keeshäwel, the last rock attraction, the adventurous and impressive tour on the Buntsandstein high trail finally ends. Now it is only about two kilometers to the parking lot before Dimbach, the starting point of the approximately three-hour hike. Those who do not want to hike the entire high trail but do not want to miss the impressive highlights have the option of switching to the hiking trail with the blue cross at the shelter of the Palatinate Forest Club Gossersweiler – between Rötzenberg and Kieungerfelsen – to return to Dimbach on a short route.

Text: Daniela Trauthwein