Black Forest Military Training Area Circuit – Germany
Wehrmacht tank tracks in the Black Forest
The Schwarzwald’s former military training areas between Baden-Baden and Freudenstadt conceal Germany’s most challenging off-road network, built originally for Wehrmacht Panzer training in the 1930s. These restricted zones, now managed by Baden-Württemberg state forests, feature tank tracks carved deep into Black Forest hillsides, concrete obstacles, and purpose-built technical sections that test ground clearance and traction. The Hornisgrinde circuit climbs to 1,164 meters through the region’s highest peaks, passing abandoned bunkers and crossing the Mummelsee approach road where military exercises once simulated Alpine warfare.
Difficult rating demands experienced drivers with modified 4WD vehicles equipped for steep grades and articulation challenges. Access requires advance permission from local forestry offices and adherence to seasonal closures protecting wildlife (March-July restricted). Navigation relies on GPS coordinates as signage remains minimal for security reasons. Best tackled in dry conditions September through February when ground freezes provide traction on clay-heavy soils. The experience delivers Germany’s most authentic military vehicle training environment, complete with historical context and technical challenges that make the Rubicon look tame.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote |
| Length (miles) | 31 mi / 50 km |
| Duration | 2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 3822 ft |
| Best season | September-February |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with articulation |
| Nearest town | Baden-Baden, Germany |
| Land manager | Baden-Württemberg State Forests |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Defender or 4Runner run this trail, or does it need mods?
Stock won't cut it here. You need a modified 4WD with real articulation — think lift, lockers, and all-terrain tires at minimum. The former tank training ground has deep ruts, off-camber sections, and soft forest floor that will beach a stock vehicle.
Is the trail accessible in summer?
Best season is September through February. Summer brings soft, churned-up ground that makes the already difficult terrain worse, and trail access may be restricted during active forestry operations in warmer months.
Do you need a permit to drive this circuit?
Yes, a permit is required. The land is managed by Baden-Württemberg State Forests and the area has historical military land restrictions — contact the Forstamt (state forestry office) covering the Baden-Baden district before you show up. Driving without authorization risks heavy fines.
What's the hardest section and what makes it technical?
The old tank track corridors are the crux — deep parallel ruts carved by WWII-era armor that modern 4x4 wheelbases don't match cleanly. You'll be straddling ruts or committed inside them on off-camber slopes with limited recovery room and dense forest on both sides.
Is there anywhere to camp on the circuit, and how far is the nearest fuel from the trailhead?
Dispersed camping in Baden-Württemberg state forests requires permission from the Forstamt — don't assume you can just pull off and pitch a tent. For fuel, Baden-Baden has stations roughly 10–15 km from the start coordinates, so top off before you head in; there's nothing on trail.
Trail track
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