Gutenbrunn Höllberg Cross-Country Trail –

A classic winter loop through the Weinsbergerwald is part of the Höllbergloipe Gutenbrunn.

The Höllberg Cross-Country Trail in Gutenbrunn winds through a variety of landscapes.

They really define winter in and around Gutenbrunn.

These include the Hansl pond, quiet forest trails and massive granite boulders.

The route also goes over the Höllberg and past the Lake Edlesberg over.

This diversity makes the region appealing to cross-country skiers and leisure seekers alike.

The official loop is 13.38 kilometers long and is classified as an easy, classic-style cross-country ski trail.

With 208 meters of elevation gain, it remains an endurance route that requires solid basic technique and adequate fitness.

The Höllberg Cross-Country Trail in Gutenbrunn offers a good balance of flat sections and short inclines.

This makes it suitable for a variety of winter sports enthusiasts.

The trailhead is located in the center of Gutenbrunn. It’s also convenient for guests staying at the Gutenbrunn vacation apartments, since it doesn’t require a long drive. The trail leads out of town and climbs past Hanslteich to Zwettlstein. It then continues via Stifterteich and the Höllbergloipe trail in Gutenbrunn to Lake Edlesberg. The route returns to Gutenbrunn via the Edlesberger Höhe.

The Höllberg Trail at a Glance

• Start: Gutenbrunn Town Center
• Destination: Gutenbrunn
• Route Type: Loop
• Style: classic cross-country skiing
• Distance: 13.38 kilometers
• Official duration: approximately 3 hours and 3 minutes
• Difficulty: easy
• Fitness level: 2 out of 6
• Ascent: 208 meters in elevation
• Descent: 232 meters in elevation
• Lowest point: 853 meters
• Highest point: 991 meters
• Technically calculated GPX length: approximately 13.35 kilometers
• GPX track points: 233

The official cross-country ski trail map lists the Höllberg trail as a classic-style trail. It is not a jogging trail. Anyone who wants to skate should use only the trails and facilities designated for that purpose in the Gutenbrunn–Martinsberg cross-country ski area.

Who is the Höllberg cross-country ski trail suitable for?

The “easy” rating refers to the official trail rating. It does not mean that the entire route is flat or can be completed without any training. Over the course of about 13 kilometers, the route includes more than 200 meters of elevation gain, several climbs, and longer descents.

The Höllberg cross-country ski trail is particularly well-suited for:

• Cross-country skiers with solid basic technique
• Athletes returning to sports who are in good physical condition
• Guests who are already doing well in the warm-up round
• Recreational cross-country skiers looking for a nature loop that lasts several hours
• Couples and small groups with similar skill levels
• Winter visitors who want to explore the forests, ponds, and granite landscapes

Complete beginners are better off starting with the short warm-up loop at Hanslteich. There, you can practice balancing, gliding, braking, and changing lanes in a manageable setting. Once you feel confident on the short loop, you can take the Höllberg trail as your next step.

Route of the Höllberg Cross-Country Trail

The official route description leads from Gutenbrunn via Hanslteich and Zwettlstein to Stifterteich. Along the way, you’ll pass the Höllberg cross-country ski trail in Gutenbrunn.

This is followed by a long climb up the Höllberg. The descent passes by the Einsiedler Cave.

Another climb leads to the sunny spot in front of the Edlesberger Höhe. The trail then heads back toward Gutenbrunn.

From Gutenbrunn to Hanslteich

The loop starts in the center of Gutenbrunn. The first section leads out of town toward Hanslteich. Be sure to start off at a leisurely pace. The trail is long enough that starting too fast will take its toll later on.

Hanslteich is a familiar landmark in the local cross-country ski trail network. This is also where the short warm-up loop is located. For guests staying at the inn, this area is ideal for warming up before a longer tour.

You may only walk on frozen ponds if the ice has been expressly declared safe. The fact that the surface appears solid or covered with snow is not proof that the ice is strong enough to support your weight.

Ascent toward Zwettlstein

From Hanslteich, the trail climbs toward Zwettlstein. On this section, it quickly becomes clear whether your pace, clothing, and skis are suited to the current snow conditions.

A steady diagonal stride conserves energy. On steeper sections, shorter strides and deliberate use of your poles can help. If you’re already getting very out of breath at this point, you should slow down and honestly assess whether the entire route is appropriate for your current fitness level.

Departure for Stifterteich

After the climb, the route leads downhill to Stifterteich. Keep a safe distance from the person in front of you and adjust your speed to the trail conditions and visibility. Hard or icy sections significantly increase your stopping distance.

The Stifterteich is situated in a quiet spot in the woods. To allow for a short break, please keep the groomed trail completely clear. Do not stop immediately after a curve or at the end of a descent.

A long climb up the Höllberg

From the area around the Stifterteich, the official route includes a longer climb from Heanest up to the Höllberg. This section is more physically demanding than the “easy” rating might initially suggest.

A steady, controlled pace is more effective than running frantically. Use flatter stretches to catch your breath without completely losing your rhythm. On open or higher ground, the wind can feel significantly stronger than in the shelter of the forest.

With its forest and granite landscape, the Höllberg is one of the most distinctive parts of the loop. The official tour particularly highlights the impressive granite boulders and the unspoiled natural scenery.

Descent past the Einsiedler Cave

From Höllberg, the route descends toward Lake Edlesberg. The trail passes by the Einsiedler Cave. Especially after a long climb, it’s important to take a moment to refocus before the descent.

Stay on the marked trail and respect any current closures. Snow, ice, fallen branches, or forestry work can cause conditions to change suddenly. The GPX file shows the official route, but it is never a substitute for the trail markings and your own assessment of the conditions on site.

Winter Rest at Lake Edlesberg

Lake Edlesberg is a scenic highlight of the Höllberg cross-country ski trail. The forest, the shoreline, and the wintery lake surface create a particularly peaceful atmosphere. There’s a safe spot off the trail that’s perfect for a quick break to drink something or take a photo.

The same rule applies at Lake Edlesberg: Do not walk on the ice unless it has been expressly approved. Stay on the designated paths and be mindful of sensitive areas along the shore.

After several kilometers, a break shouldn't last too long. Damp clothing and wind can quickly cause you to get cold when you stop moving. A windproof layer and a warm drink are therefore helpful.

Back to Gutenbrunn via the Edlesberger Höhe

After the lake, there’s another climb up to the Sonnenplatzl, just before the Edlesberger Höhe. You should still have some energy left for this late climb. Anyone who ran too fast at the start will feel the strain particularly keenly here.

According to the official description, the course descends from the Edlesberger Höhe toward Gutenbrunn using a double-pole push. Despite the proximity to the finish line, maintaining proper technique remains important. Fatigue can lead to imprecise pole use, an unsteady stance, and delayed braking.

The loop ends back in Gutenbrunn. From there, it's a short walk back to the vacation rentals.

Plan your travel time realistically

The official duration of 3 hours and 3 minutes is a rough estimate. The actual time depends on snow conditions, trail grooming, temperature, technique, fitness level, and breaks.

For a relaxed vacation ride, it’s a good idea to allow for extra time. Taking photos, stopping for a drink or a light snack, or riding carefully on rough sections will extend the ride. Start early enough to ensure you have plenty of daylight left. In forested areas, it gets dark even before sunset in the winter.

Check the latest cross-country ski trail report

A GPX file shows the geographical route, but not the current conditions. Lack of snow, thawing, ice, windthrow, forestry work, or trail grooming can lead to closures and detours.

Before you begin, check the following:

• Is the Höllberg cross-country ski trail officially open?
• Has it been groomed recently?
• Are there any icy, closed, or detoured sections?
• How are temperature, wind, and precipitation expected to change?
• Will my stamina and the daylight last for the entire lap?
• Are the rental shops and restaurants I'm interested in open?

Current signage, road closures, and on-site instructions always take precedence over GPX files, maps, and past experience.

Classic Cross-Country Skiing on the Höllberg Trail

The Höllberg Trail is a classic cross-country ski trail. Skiers glide largely parallel to each other in groomed tracks. The diagonal stride combines the leg push-off with the use of the opposite arm. On flat and gently sloping sections, the double-pole push is often the most efficient technique.

Downhill runs require a stable base position, controlled speed, and confident braking maneuvers. Skating strides require a wide, specially grooved surface and must not damage the classic track.

Recommended Equipment

For the Höllberg ski trail, we recommend:

• Classic cross-country skis with matching climbing aids or suitable wax
• Properly functioning bindings and the right cross-country boots
• Poles of the appropriate length
• Breathable clothing based on the layering principle
• windproof jacket
• tight-fitting gloves
• Cap or headband
• Sunglasses or sports glasses
• enough to drink, protected from the cold
• small, high-energy snack
• Cell phone with a fully charged battery
• GPX file saved offline
• small power bank
• personal medications
• small first-aid kit
• Headlamp as a backup
• dry spare gloves

Cross-country skiing generates a lot of heat despite the low temperatures. Wearing several thin layers allows you to better adjust to physical exertion, wind, and breaks than wearing a single, very thick jacket.

Courtesy and Safety on the Cross-Country Ski Trail

On a groomed cross-country ski trail, mutual consideration and controlled skiing are essential. Please note the following in particular:

• do not endanger or obstruct other people
• Pay attention to markings, the direction of travel, and barriers
• If there are multiple lanes, always use the right lane
• Allow faster drivers to pass safely
• If there is oncoming traffic, swerve to the right
• Give the right of way to those driving downhill over those walking uphill
• Hold your poles close to your body when near other people
• Adjust your speed to match your skill level, the slope, and visibility
• If you come to a stop or fall, clear the track as quickly as possible
• Provide assistance in the event of an accident

Pedestrians, Dogs, Sleds and bicycles are allowed on the cross-country ski trail only if expressly permitted. Footprints damage the groomed surface and can create dangerous bumps.

Is the Höllberg cross-country ski trail suitable for older guests?

Age alone isn't the deciding factor. Well-trained older cross-country skiers with solid technique can enjoy the loop. The key factors are endurance, balance, downhill technique, tolerance for cold, and a realistic assessment of one's own abilities.

If you're getting back into it after a long break, you should start with the warm-up route. Anna and Herbert are happy to help guests choose a route that suits their experience level and how they're feeling that day.

Cross-Country Skiing with Kids

The Höllberg cross-country ski trail is suitable for children if they can already cross-country ski confidently, brake in a controlled manner, and cover a distance of more than 13 kilometers. The loop is too long for beginners.

Children need more frequent breaks to warm up, hydrate, and stay motivated. The pace and route planning are always based on the youngest and slowest member of the group.

Is the cross-country ski trail accessible?

No. The Höllberg cross-country ski trail is not barrier-free. Snow, cross-country skiing technique, uphill climbs, and downhill runs require flexibility, balance, and physical endurance.

Groomed cross-country ski trails must not be used as regular winter hiking trails. Anyone who wishes to experience the winter landscape without cross-country skis should use only designated walking and winter hiking trails.

Trail Fees, Rentals, and Services

The official regional website currently lists the following prices:

• Day pass: 5 euros per person
• Weekly pass: 15 euros per person
• Children 15 and under: free

There is a ticket machine at Hanslteich that, according to the regional website, accepts only coins. Additional ticket locations are listed at Gasthof Marschall Stuben and Pension Seewolf. Both establishments are also listed as rental locations for cross-country skiing equipment.

According to the regional website, the Marschall Stuben inn offers changing rooms and showers, lockable luggage storage, a public sauna, and a cross-country skiing coach upon request.

Prices, hours of operation, availability, and services offered are subject to change. Please verify this information immediately before your stay. This summary is current as of August 17, 2026.

Staying at the Gutenbrunn Vacation Rentals

The Höllberg cross-country ski trail starts right in Gutenbrunn and is the perfect complement to a stay at the Gutenbrunn vacation apartments. You can get your gear ready at your own pace, start your hike without a long drive, and return directly to your accommodations after your hike.

For a winter stay lasting several days, it’s a good idea to take a step-by-step approach:

1. Warm-up lap at Hanslteich to get things going
2. The Höllberg Trail: A Larger Classic Nature Loop
3. The Waldhäuser Cross-Country Trail as a Long, Challenging Tour

Whether it's possible to complete a lap always depends on the current snow and trail conditions. If there isn't enough snow, the open walking and hiking trails around Gutenbrunn are a good alternative.

Book a vacation rental directly

Would you like to experience the Höllberg cross-country ski trail and the wintry landscape of the Weinsbergerwald for yourself? Our vacation apartments offer plenty of space, peace and quiet, and personalized hospitality from Anna and Herbert.

You can check availability and book your stay right here: