Wegscheid combines a long hike at Rossberg with traces of silver mining and the area’s former industry. There are different ways to plan your visit: the circular hike covers 19.6 kilometres, while the guided tour focuses on two authentic tunnels. The landscape includes the Forêt des Volcans and the Vogelsteine rocks. So first consider whether you would rather spend your time hiking, exploring mining history, or visiting historic sites.
A long hike around Rossberg
The route “De Wegscheidt au Rossberg par la réserve des volcans, version longue” is a 19.6-kilometre circular hike starting in Wegscheid. It leads around the Rossberg massif and returns via the Rimbach Pass and the Stahlberg shelter. Its circular route and named landmarks give the hike a clear structure: you plan a complete route rather than a short detour to a single destination. The total distance is an important reference point for planning your day; it helps you weigh the scale of the hike against other interests during your stay. The route description was published in 2023 and should be checked locally before setting out.
Chalet Stahlberg and the landscape
Chalet Stahlberg is located in the heights above Wegscheid, at the entrance to the Forêt des Volcans, and is accessible only on foot. A visit therefore requires walking to the chalet; take this access route into account when planning. The chalet has a stove where you can warm up during a break. As facilities can change, check before your visit whether the stove is available. The Forêt des Volcans lies in the Massif du Rossberg; the Vogelsteine rocks (1,164 m) rise above it. The names refer to different parts of the landscape: forest, massif and rocks. Together, these place names give the Rossberg hike a distinctive landscape setting.
Silver mining and guided tour
In the Soultzbach valley, the mining district was a major centre of silver mining in the 16th century. During a guided tour of the Mines d'Argent de Wegscheid, visitors explore two authentic tunnels, accompanied by a geology educator from the Maison de la Terre. This brings together two different ways of engaging with the subject: the historical significance of mining and a guided exploration of the tunnels. Unlike the circular hike, the focus here is on a tour underground rather than a long-distance route. Check current visiting options in advance before making the tour a fixed part of your itinerary.
Another historic building
The former royal tinplate factory is part of Wegscheid’s history. Alongside silver mining, it is another historic landmark in the area. Check the building’s condition and whether it is open to the public before planning a visit.
Discover more destinations: Zimmersheim, Rantzwiller, Dietwiller, Hartmannswiller, Hohrod, Katzenthal, Beblenheim, Eglingen
For the broader travel overview: Haut-Rhin.
