Description
Just a few kilometers from Bad Urach, the Urach Waterfall ranks among the most impressive natural landmarks of the Swabian Jura. Here, water plunges 37 meters over a travertine cliff into the valley below.
At the end of the idyllic Maisental valley, nature lovers encounter one of the Swabian Jura’s most fascinating phenomena: the Urach Waterfall. Nearly 40 meters of cascading water drop from the high meadow at the top, tumbling over moss-covered rocks in countless rivulets as it flows through the forested gorge.
What makes it unique: the calcium-rich water deposits lime as it flows, which settles on the moss and slowly forms porous travertine rock. Over time, this rock continues to grow – a rare process that visitors can witness with their own eyes. For this reason, the waterfall and its surroundings are designated as a geotope, forest biotope, and part of a protected nature reserve.
Hike to a Natural Spectacle
Visitors can experience the waterfall from various perspectives. From parking lot P23, a mostly flat, two-kilometer path follows the Brühlbach stream to the base of the falls – even accessible with an all-terrain stroller. Adventurers who tackle the steep stairs up the side of the waterfall are rewarded with a panoramic view from the high meadow and the cozy "Wasserfallhütte" hut, open from March to November. Don’t miss the bridge view right above the cascade before heading back via the same path or one of the surrounding hiking trails.
Attention: To protect the fragile mosses and growing travertine, please avoid stepping directly into the waterfall area.
How to get there
The Urach Waterfall is located in Baden-Württemberg, just south of Stuttgart, on the outskirts of the town of Bad Urach in the UNESCO-designated Swabian Jura Biosphere Reserve. Getting there is easy by both car and public transportation.
Drivers should take the A8 motorway (Stuttgart–Munich) and exit at "Wendlingen". From there, continue on the B313, then follow the B465 toward Bad Urach. Within the town, signs will guide you to parking lot P23 in the Maisental valley – just outside the town center and the perfect starting point for the short hike to the waterfall.
If you're arriving by train, take the regional rail line to Bad Urach station, which is served regularly from Metzingen and Reutlingen. From the station, you can reach the Maisental valley on foot in about 30 minutes or take a convenient local bus.