I have been tweaking a track to cross the Black Forest from South to North via Basel, Todtnau, Feldberg, Hinterzarten, St. Märgen, Breg (main source of the Donau), Hausach and finally arriving in Karlsruhe. Most of it is through double-tracked gravel, but there are is also some little parts of single-track.

Stats

350km, 3 days, 10.000 vertical meters

Route

Komoot Track

via Basel, Todtnau, Feldberg, Hinterzarten, St. Märgen, Breg, Hausach, Karlsruhe (and a lot of towers)

Key points

• mostly double track gravel
• some single-track
• some hike-a-bike
• a LOT of vertical meters - very steep sections were removed as far as possible
• supply points like grocery stores are not that frequent, but there are a lot of huts for eating
• fresh water is no problem, because there are a lot of fountains
• a lot of shelters along the way for short and over-night stays -- never encountered any issues as of now

Setup

• Scott Scale Gravel RC 2.35 with drop-bars; 34T-52T
• Tailfin rack and down-tube pack + Black Diamond Distance 15L backpack
• Therma-Rest sleeping pad, down sleeping bag, first aid kit

Considerations

• small gearing - would not advice to use 40T in front
• good tires - I wouldn't use anything less than 45mm
• quick brightness (light) changes in downhills - full focus because there are rocks just waiting to hit you
• be aware of ticks - check regularly
• resupply early - water is not an issue thou
• considerable stretches in the forest are without people; some are quite crowded - pack everything to help yourself (e.g. technical issues)
• prepare for long days grinding hills - rewarded by stunning views
• in May (2026) there was a LOT of 'Blütenstaub' (dust) in the air - bring medication if necessary
• I would not recommend doing it in reverse, because of very steep downhills - requires some changes

Alternative

If you are tired in Mitteltal, you can go to Baiersbronn and take the Tour de Murg-Radweg to Rastatt. This cycling path will go mostly go downhill