L3 Rinnerberg Trail

This really beautiful and relatively easy to run circular course covers a total of 15.1 km, first leading us through the Schmiedleiten, then through the romantic Rinnerberger Gorge and afterwards on forest paths around the Rinnerberg.

Without the Rinnerberg summit, there are 418 meters of elevation to overcome; with the summit cross it is 539 meters.

The route starts at the bus stop at Schloss Leonstein. Right behind it begins the path leading us through the Schmiedleiten. Past the old buildings of the scythe makers, we hike into the valley. After about 2 km, we turn into the forest, which now leads us into the Rinnerberger Gorge. Lovingly designed signposts show us the way. Over a small bridge, it then goes quite steeply uphill on narrow paths until we reach the Rinnerberg waterfall after about 3.5 km. An iron staircase overcomes the height of the waterfall. The path continues on beautiful trails, past the bear cave, which leads us downhill. We follow the road until km 6.7 and then turn onto a forest road. Slightly ascending, we follow the forest road, which now leads us around the Rinnerberg. Those who have the desire and time can also climb the 878 m high summit of the Rinnerberg. It is definitely worth it. It goes steeply uphill and you are rewarded with a summit cross and a fantastic view over the Alpine foothills. However, the actual summit cross of the Rinnerberg stands a few hundred meters further, hidden deep in the forest. Back on the same path, we reach the forest road again and continue, first briefly uphill, then quickly downhill until we meet Heindlmühlstraße at km 10.6, on which we now walk downhill to our starting point.

Visit the summit cross of the Rinnerberg.

The required equipment always depends on the respective route and weather conditions. Regarding provisions: this is very individual, and it is advisable to have more rather than less equipment and food with you. A 5 km round trip in the valley requires less than a demanding route in the mountains. The weather can change quickly, and if you are not constantly moving or need to take a break, warming clothing, for example, is very important.

We have a general checklist here for you:

• Weather-appropriate running clothing for the respective season – weather forecast – region – altitude. This includes, among others:
  * a waterproof rain jacket
  * waterproof rain pants suitable for running
  * gloves and warm headgear (cap/headband/buff)
  * sunglasses + sunscreen + headgear for very warm days


• Trail running shoes


• Water bottles, soft flasks, or a hydration bladder with enough fluid for the respective route (possibly also salt tablets/magnesium)


• Snacks for an energy boost in between: energy bars, gels, chocolate, trail mix,


• Running backpack: ideally a trail running vest / a trail running backpack or a waist belt for small routes.


• Drypack: to keep your valuables or change of clothes dry (optionally a small trash bag)


• Emergency blanket


• Small first aid kit. In my opinion, an Israeli bandage is highly recommended: it is a one-handed wound and pressure bandage. Details can be found here.


• Emergency whistle (often integrated in the trail backpack)


• Mobile phone


• Maps (online and/or offline)


• E-card or insurance card


• Some cash


• Microspikes/spikes: these can be very advantageous in winter and icy conditions.


• Folding poles for trail running


• Headlamp

This trail was run for us by André Prinz