Cascade de l'Erzenbach

Cascade de l'Erzenbach is a forest waterfall tucked into the Silberthal valley in the commune of Steinbach, in the Haut-Rhin department of the Alsace region (Grand Est, France). The falls sit within the Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park and are often ranked among the more attractive cascades in Alsace. The name Erzenbach comes from the region's old ore-mining past, roughly translating from Alsatian as "ore stream."

Where exactly is the waterfall located?

The Cascade de l'Erzenbach lies in the wooded Silberthal valley, at the foot of the Schletzenburg summit, within the commune of Steinbach near Cernay. The area has a long mining history: nearby are the remains of former iron and lead workings, including the medieval Donnerloch mine and the Saint-Nicolas mine. The waterfall itself sits deep in the forest, giving it a secluded, quiet character.

How do you get to the waterfall?

The usual starting point is the Silberthal clearing (clairière du Silberthal) in Steinbach. From there, a loop trail of roughly 6.4 km (about 4 miles) leads to the falls and back, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours to complete. The route is moderate, with a total elevation gain of around 270 meters, and is waymarked by the Club Vosgien (Cernay section). Along the way, the path passes the old mine sites mentioned above, making the walk interesting for anyone curious about local mining history as well as scenery.

Is the trail difficult, and is it suitable for families?

The trail is not considered technically demanding. It has been developed and signposted, so families with children and less experienced walkers can manage it without much trouble. That said, it runs through forest terrain with uneven ground in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.

Can you always reach the waterfall itself?

The final approach to the main cascade crosses a footbridge and staircase that were closed for safety reasons from April 2021 onward, after the previous structure — more than a century old — was deemed unsafe. A new footbridge and staircase were built by the metalwork company Munch Métal, with volunteers from the Club Vosgien de Cernay carrying out additional trail safety work. The crossing was reopened to the public on 13 July 2023, so visitors can once again walk right up to the base of the falls.

When is the best time to visit?

The Cascade de l'Erzenbach is at its most impressive in spring, when melting snow feeds extra water into the stream, and in winter during the thaw. During these periods the flow is at its strongest, which makes for a more dramatic sight as the water drops through the rocky, forested ravine.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Cascade de l'Erzenbach located? In the Silberthal valley, in the commune of Steinbach, in the Vosges mountains, Haut-Rhin department, Alsace.

How long does the hike to the waterfall take? The loop trail from the Silberthal clearing usually takes 2 to 2.5 hours and covers about 6.4 km.

Is the trail suitable for beginners? Yes, it is waymarked by the Club Vosgien and rated moderate, making it accessible to families.

Can I bring my dog? Yes, as long as it stays on a leash.

Is access to the waterfall itself open? Yes — following the footbridge and staircase renovation completed in July 2023, visitors can once again reach the main cascade directly.

What else is worth seeing along the way? The remains of old ore mines, including the medieval Donnerloch mine and the Saint-Nicolas mine, plus views toward the Schletzenburg summit.