Landslide forces indefinite closure of Rheinsteig hiking trail near Frauenstein
A 400-metre stretch of the Rheinsteig hiking trail near Frauenstein remains closed after a landslide made the path unsafe. Authorities have warned hikers not to ignore barriers, as entering the area could put lives at risk and slow down repairs.
The affected section, from Knobsalm down into the Mühlbach valley, has been blocked since at least March 2024—nearly two years before the latest update in February 2026.
Heavy rain and unstable ground have caused soil to crumble along the hiking trail. Tree roots no longer hold the slope in place, making the path dangerous for walkers. The Civil Engineering and Surveying Office in Wiesbaden has fully closed the area to prevent accidents.
Hikers are being urged to follow marked detours instead of attempting to cross the damaged section. Officials have stressed that bypassing barriers not only risks personal safety but could also delay essential repair work.
The closure has been in place for almost 23 months, with no immediate end in sight. Authorities continue to monitor the situation while assessing long-term solutions for the trail.
The Rheinsteig's closed section will stay off-limits until further notice. Detours remain the only safe option for hikers in the area. Repairs will depend on weather conditions and the stability of the slope over time.
