© Franziska Reusch

Demanding hikes

Challenging hikes

Hikers with sporting ambitions will not only find challenging tours in the Elbe sandstone, they will also be rewarded with the most beautiful views. Suitable hiking tours for the next hike can be found here.

However, you should well prepare such a tour to be safe when you explore nature together with your four-pawed friend. Primarily, it is essential to bring enough food and water for your dog. Leashes are compulsory in the National Park to prevent danger to passers-by and wildlife in the woods. Dogs can only be transported in buses and trains with a muzzle and leash.

"Stiegen" & via ferrata - hiking for advanced

Airy steps, narrow crevices, tricky passages: The special hiking experience in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains

What are "Stiegen"?
"Stiegen" are a specialty of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains: steep sections of hiking trails that have to be negotiated using wooden or metal steps. Originally more of a means to an end, they have long since advanced to become a tourist attraction of their own in the region. Stairs are available in all difficulties - from family-friendly scrambling fun to a real test of courage. In general, however, they require sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and a head for heights. A via ferrata set is also recommended for safety on more demanding climbs that are designed as via ferratas.

Guided stair tours
The best way to explore the "Stiegen" of Saxon Switzerland is with a certified national park guide or another knowledgeable guide. This is the only way to get the sights of the rock world explained to the left and right of the path. And that's the only way to learn the little anecdotes that go with every staircase. There are several providers of guided stair tours.

Book Guided stair tours

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