Hain: Hiking between Johannisstein and Hochwald
Accommodation in Hain
Those choosing Hain as a travel destination can compare the hikes described by distance, duration, and theme. The Johannisstein Nature Trail is a short, easy circular route with nature and landscape themes; there are also hikes of 4.6 or 5.9 kilometres and a hike of around three hours to the Hochwald. These differences help you plan your hiking day using specific route details.
Hikes by distance and theme
The Johannisstein Nature Trail is an easy, cross-border circular route measuring 1.5 km and taking about one hour. The start and finish are at the Kammbaude in Oybin/Hain. The route goes via the Kammbaude and the border crossing into the Czech Republic in the direction of Krompach, then back to Oybin/Hain. The “Johannisstein” circular trail has eleven stations covering the region’s mountains, plant life, forest animals, reptiles and birds, as well as the history and geology of Johannisstein. As local trail conditions can change, check them before setting out.
The Jonsberg circuit is a 4.6 km circular route. It starts at the Hain car park, also known as the Stern hiking car park. Snow conditions on this route vary by season. The Hain–Oybin circuit is 5.9 km long and takes about 110 minutes. This makes it possible to compare the two routes by distance; the Hain circuit also includes an approximate duration.
Johannisstein combines a short route with stations about nature and history. Another hiking route starts in Oybin, passes through the district of Hain to the Hochwald and its observation tower, and offers panoramic views across three countries. It is about 7.5 km long and takes around three hours. Compared with the approximately 110-minute Hain–Oybin circuit, this is the longer of the two hikes with a stated duration; the observation tower and panorama are also among its named features.
Elevation and views
Hain lies at an altitude of 550 m and is considered the highest-altitude village in Upper Lusatia. The Hochwald is 749 m high and the second-highest panoramic mountain in the Zittau Mountains. Together with the observation tower and panoramic views across three countries, these details provide a geographical point of reference for the longer hike from Oybin via Hain to the Hochwald.
SAXBO and further trip planning
A municipal announcement from 2025 described the Saxon-Bohemian Orienteering Days (SAXBO) as an annual event. It mentioned up to 1,000 participants drawn to the event by the sandstone formations and half-timbered houses of the Zittau Mountains. Orienteering is described as a family sport that combines sport, nature, and culture. If SAXBO is relevant to your trip, check the dates for the specific edition.
The Hochwaldbaude is a traditional mountain lodge with a restaurant and overnight accommodation. If you plan to stay there, check the latest operating information in advance.
Discover other destinations: LĂĽckendorf.
Go to the main travel overview: Oybin.
