Albsteig (HW1) – Stage 5 – Aalen-Unterkochen to Heubach
Schwäbische Alb
Partly over roots and stones, the fifth stage of the Albsteig covers about 24 km. Numerous viewpoints allow wide views over the beautiful landscape. At the start, there are two quite steep climbs, which are rewarded with lookout towers: first to Aalbäumle and then to Volkmarsberg. On this route, just over 500 meters of altitude have to be overcome, most of which you have behind you after these two climbs. The Albsteig then leads over the Weiherwiesen nature reserve and the village of Lauterburg to Heubach – the destination of this stage.
Author’s recommendation
"Hiking on the Ostalb has a unique charm at every time of the year. Many of our guests who are on the Albsteig here confirm this."
Alexej Orlopp, Campingplatz Hirtenteich
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Show elevation profileSafety information
The climb up the Rosenstein is not recommended in heavy rain or similar weather conditions. In this case, there is a path bypassing Rosenstein to Heubach.
This is a moderate middle-mountain hike; the climbs are partly steep and the paths quite narrow. Experienced hikers will therefore enjoy it more than beginners. Experience, stamina, and appropriate equipment are prerequisites. The Albsteig (HW1) was completely newly signposted in 2016 and recertified as a quality trail in 2020. Additionally, a hiking map and/or a GPS device are never a bad idea.
Tips and suggestions
Schwäbische Alb Tourism
Bismarckstraße 21
72574 Bad Urach
Tel. +49 (0) 71 25 / 93 930 - 0
Aussichtsturm Aalbäumle
Volkmarsberg Tower
Tauchenweiler
Weiherplatz
Hirtenteich campground
Finsteres Loch
Große Scheuer
Burgruine Rosenstein
Heubach Marktplatz
Public transport
Information on arriving in Aalen-Unterkochen can be found here.
Directions
Information on arriving in Aalen-Unterkochen can be found here.
Parking
Information on arriving in Aalen-Unterkochen can be found here.
Coordinates
Book recommendation by the author
Albsteig brochure of Schwäbische Alb Tourism (www.schwaebischealb.de)
Author’s map recommendations
Recreational maps from the Baden-Württemberg State Survey Office sheet no. F 522 – Aalen
Book recommendations for this region:
Recommended maps for this region:
Equipment
Good hiking boots, poles, hiking map, possibly GPS, snack, drink, rainwearLocalization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions