---
title: "Challenging hikes in the Saxon Switzerland"
url: "https://www.saechsische-schweiz.de/en/hiking/trails/challenging-hiking-tours"
description: "Over 20 challenging hiking routes with stairs and climbing paths. ✓ Breathtaking views ✓ Filter by difficulty ✓ Download map ➤ Plan your tour!"
language: "en"
breadcrumb: "Root > Saxon Switzerland > HIKING > ALL HIKING TOURS > Challenging hiking tours"
---

Challenging Hiking Tours
========================

For athletically ambitious hikers, the Elbsandstein not only offers challenging tours but also rewards with the most beautiful views. You can find suitable hiking tours for your next hike here.

 

 

Climbing and via ferrata

Staircases & Via Ferratas - Hiking for the Advanced
-------------------------------------------------------

Airy steps, narrow rock crevices, tricky passages: The special hiking experience in the Elbsandsteingebirge

What are "Stiegen"?
"Stiegen" are a specialty of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains: steep sections of hiking trails that must be overcome with wooden or metal steps. Initially a means to an end, they have long since become a unique tourist attraction in the region. "Stiegen" come in all levels of difficulty – from family-friendly climbing fun to a real test of courage. However, they generally require sure-footedness, sturdy footwear, and a good head for heights. On the more challenging routes, which are developed as via ferratas, a climbing set is also recommended for safety.

Guided "Stiegen" tours
The best way to explore the "Stiegen" of Saxon Switzerland is in the company of a certified national park guide or another knowledgeable guide. This is the only way to get explanations of the sights along the rocky landscape to the left and right of the path. This is also the only way to hear the little anecdotes that are associated with each "Stiege." There are several providers of guided "Stiegen" tours.

- 

 

**Looking for More Hiking Inspiration?**

You will find almost 200 additional routes for & in Saxon Switzerland in our route planner.
All hiking routes are also available there for download as a PDF and with a GPX track.