Epfendorf: Schlichem Gorge, Hiking Trails and Local Traditions

The Schlichem Gorge and its geological character

Near Epfendorf, the Schlichem Gorge has cut more than 70 metres into the Muschelkalk and Lower Keuper plateau. This has created numerous geological exposures on the valley slopes and in the stream bed. The plateau and the deep incision define the geological setting of the gorge; the exposures provide a second tangible feature, revealing the rock structure on the slopes and in the stream bed. If you’re interested in landforms, you can understand Epfendorf through this combination of valley shape and rock.

Two trails, different ways to explore

The Epfendorf “Gedanken bergauf” reflection trail, with ten stations focusing on nature, culture and spirituality, leads from the Neckar in the centre of Epfendorf up to the Marienkapelle. The Schlichem hiking trail runs from the source in Tieringen to the point where the Schlichem flows into the Neckar at Epfendorf. It is 33 kilometres long and can be explored in sections.

The Schlichem itself travels just over 30 kilometres through the Jura, Keuper and Muschelkalk before flowing into the Neckar near Epfendorf. The two distance figures therefore refer to different things: 33 kilometres for the hiking trail and just over 30 kilometres for the river. The trails differ mainly in their layout: the reflection trail has ten themed stations, while the Schlichem hiking trail covers 33 kilometres and can be explored in sections.

Local traditions

The Easter fountain in Epfendorf is decorated with eggs painted by children and adults, along with greenery arranged above a living spring to form a victory crown with a palm cross. For more than ten years, children, young people and adults have gathered once a week for “Abendstunde im Advent” (Advent Evening Hour), preparing for the arrival of Jesus through prayer, singing and meditation. These represent two different seasons and forms of expression: decorating the Easter fountain and spiritually preparing for the arrival of Jesus during Advent.

More to discover in the wider Rottweil destination

The wider Rottweil destination also focuses on industrial and Roman history. The Salinenmuseum Unteres Bohrhaus (Lower Bohrhaus Saltworks Museum) showcases salt production in original buildings, with original equipment, a waterwheel and two brine pumps. It also explains the history and significance of the former Royal Saltworks Wilhelmshall, described as Rottweil’s oldest industrial enterprise.

At the Dominican Museum, the “Roman Rottweil – Arae Flaviae” section takes visitors through a day in Roman Rottweil on 4 August 186 AD: from the forum in the morning through various public and private engagements to a banquet in the evening. Reconstructions and interactive areas complement the exhibition. The Test Tower offers a technical perspective: modern elevators are tested and certified in twelve shafts, at speeds of up to 18 metres per second.

Discover more destinations: Dietingen, Sulz am Neckar, Fluorn-Winzeln, Deißlingen, Schramberg, Zimmern ob Rottweil, Aichhalden, Oberndorf am Neckar

See the wider travel guide: Rottweil.