Rainkopf

Rainkopf rises above Metzeral, a small village in the Munster valley in France's Grand Est region, reaching 1,305 metres and ranking among the higher summits on the main Hautes-Vosges ridge. It sits precisely on the boundary between three communes — La Bresse in the Vosges département (Lorraine side) and Mittlach and Wildenstein on the Alsace side.

Where exactly is Rainkopf?

The summit marks the point where the main Hautes-Vosges ridgeline splits in two: one branch runs southeast toward the Grand Ballon, the other turns south toward the Ballon d'Alsace. Because it sits right on this watershed junction between Lorraine and Alsace, Rainkopf functions as a key waypoint for anyone hiking the high ridge traverse, not just a local hill above Metzeral.

How do you get up there?

The most common starting point is Mittlach, the commune bordering Metzeral in the Munster valley. Trails climb from there through forest and pasture toward the ridge, passing Lake Altenweiher at 926 metres — often described as the most secluded lake in the Munster valley, tucked between Rainkopf and the neighbouring Kastelberg. From Mittlach the path connects into the wider network of marked ridge trails, including stretches of the GR5 long-distance route, so it's easy to turn the climb into a longer ridge walk rather than a simple there-and-back.

What will you see on the way up and at the top?

Rainkopf has a rounded summit dome, but its eastern flank drops away steeply — an old glacial cirque overlooking the Mittlach valley, a clear reminder that glaciers shaped this stretch of the Vosges. From the top, the view opens onto the neighbouring ridge summits and the valleys on both sides of the watershed. A mountain hut, the Refuge Louis Hergès, stands close to the summit, making a convenient rest stop or a shorter destination for those not aiming for the full ascent.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer and early autumn keep the trails dry and well-trodden, and the open pastures around Lake Altenweiher give unobstructed views without pushing through dense forest. In winter, the Rainkopf area draws ski tourers — the gentle, open ridge sections and proximity to other Hautes-Vosges summits make it one of the more popular backcountry ski destinations around the Munster valley. In spring, expect lingering snow patches on the higher ridge sections, which can slow the crossing down.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Rainkopf? The summit reaches 1,305 metres, placing it among the higher points on the main Hautes-Vosges ridge.

Where's the best place to start the hike? Most hikers start from Mittlach, next to Metzeral in the Munster valley, with the trail passing Lake Altenweiher on the way up.

Is there any shelter near the summit? Yes — the Refuge Louis Hergès mountain hut sits close to the top.

Is Rainkopf suitable for a winter outing? Yes, it's a popular ski touring destination thanks to its gentle, open ridge terrain, though it's worth checking snow conditions before setting out.