The Uracher Wasserfall drops over a limestone ledge on the edge of the Swabian Alb, formed by tufa deposits that build up as mineral-rich water flows over the rock, and it ranks among the taller waterfalls in Baden-Württemberg. It's reached by a short, signed walking trail from Bad Urach rather than by road, climbing through forest along the stream before the falls come into view. The spa town of Bad Urach itself, with its half-timbered market square, sits just below at the base of the Alb escarpment.
The Bad Urach Waterfall (Uracher Wasserfall) drops around 37 metres over layered limestone cliffs on the edge of the Swabian Alb, formed by the Brühlbach stream as it tumbles down the escarpment above the spa town of Bad Urach. A network of hiking trails, including a steep switchback path that climbs alongside and behind sections of the cascade, lets visitors view the falls from multiple angles, including a viewpoint that looks out from behind the curtain of falling water. The trail continues upward to the ruins of Hohenurach Castle on the plateau above, extending a simple waterfall visit into a longer hike with views back over the Ermstal valley. A round trip from the town centre trailhead to the waterfall and back takes about ninety minutes to two hours, longer if continuing to the castle ruins. Spring, after snowmelt in the surrounding hills, brings the fullest flow of water, while the limestone cliffs can be icy and best avoided in freezing conditions.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Always open |
| Typical visit | 1.5-2 hours (round trip hike) |
| Best time | Spring after snowmelt for maximum flow |
| Getting there | 15 min walk from Bad Urach town center trailhead |
| Address | Uracher Wasserfall, 72574 Bad Urach, Germany |
Location
Uracher Wasserfall, 72574 Bad Urach, Germany
48.4936, 9.3958 View on map
Highlights
- 37-metre limestone waterfall on the Swabian Alb
- Trail passing behind the falling water
- Connecting hike to Hohenurach Castle ruins
- Views over the Ermstal valley
Tips for visiting
- Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear, as the trail can be steep and wet near the falls
- Visit in spring for the fullest water flow from snowmelt
- Avoid the trail in icy winter conditions, when the limestone paths become slippery
- Continue to Hohenurach Castle ruins for extended valley views if time allows
When to visit
Spring after snowmelt gives the waterfall its maximum flow and most dramatic appearance.
Accessibility
The trail to the waterfall is steep, unpaved and includes stone steps, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Bad Urach Waterfall take?
A round trip from the trailhead takes about ninety minutes to two hours.
Is it worth it for kids?
Older children who can manage a steep hiking trail generally enjoy it, though the path is demanding for very young children.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is unrestricted along the trail and at the waterfall viewpoints.