The best photo spots in Germanys Black Forest

1. Triberger Waterfalls

• Why it's worth a visit: The Triberger Waterfalls are actually among the most famous and highest waterfalls in Germany. Surrounded by lush forest scenery, they provide a wonderful photographic motif under varying weather and light conditions.
• Interesting perspectives: The view from the observation platform or along the hiking paths offers particularly interesting perspectives. Especially in spring, after rainfalls, and/or in the early morning, the waterfall shows its best side and can be photographed without crowds.
• Best photo moment: At sunrise, after a rain shower, or in the fog. For long exposure shots or in low light, a tripod can be useful.
• Ideal equipment: Ideally, you should bring a backpack for your camera, lenses, and accessories. Since there is a certain distance to cover on hiking trails from the main parking areas, a Element backpack 30L or 20L (for smaller carriers) is the ideal choice. Their stability and comfort will help you and your gear stay safe on all paths. After rain, some paths can be muddy and slippery, so be sure to wear suitable footwear. The Element backpack is washable, so you can safely put it down when you need to change your gear. The Element backpack 30L also includes a removable seat mat, so you stay warm and clean during breaks or when shooting, even if you're sitting on damp benches, rocks, etc.

2. Feldberg

• Why it's worth a visit: Feldberg is the highest mountain in the Black Forest at 1,493 meters and offers a wonderful view that changes with the seasons. Bright green in summer, snow-covered white in winter. The roof of the Black Forest.
• Interesting perspectives: The summit of Feldberg offers wide, unobstructed views of the surrounding area, which create unique compositions, especially during sunrise and sunset. There is also the Feldsee, a dreamy mountain lake. With a drone and/or a suitable wide-angle lens, there are many creative possibilities.
• Best photo moment: At dawn or sunset, it is still quite quiet and beautiful even in summer. In winter, with snow and low sunlight, the landscape is bathed in golden light.
• Ideal equipment: When visiting Feldberg, it's not necessary to hike up a lot of elevation. If you drive there, you don’t have to carry your gear too far, but parking spaces can be limited. If you bring extensive gear, especially in cold weather, consider using a suitable Element backpack to have space for gloves, extra clothing, a thermos, etc. If you want to transport a lightweight camera and a small drone, an Element sling in the appropriate size will meet all your requirements.

3. Baiersbronn – Murgleiter

• Why it's worth a visit: Baiersbronn in the northern Black Forest is known for its beautiful nature and picturesque hiking trails. The Murgleiter, a long-distance trail along the Murg River, passes through dense forests, idyllic valleys, and offers charming views of small Black Forest caves and authentic villages.
• Interesting perspectives: The old mill near Baiersbronn, enchanted forests along the Murg, and viewpoints over the valleys offer many photographic opportunities. Even in the villages themselves, you can capture the Black Forest idyll. Some farms in the region have small farm shops and/or cafés with homemade food and cakes.
• Best photo moment: Early in the morning with mist, in soft light, or on a sunny summer day.
• Ideal equipment: To gain a comprehensive view of the region and experience the Murgtal valley in its entirety, some hiking/running stretches are required. On foot, we recommend using an Element backpack in the right size or the Adapt backpack, if you want to adjust your gear according to your daily itinerary and pack efficiently. If you'd prefer to explore by gravel bike or mountain bike, an Element sling will accompany you agily and transport your gear well.

4. Schluchsee

• Why it's worth a visit: The Schluchsee is a large, idyllic lake in the southern Black Forest, surrounded by forests and hills. Its mirror-like water surface, which reflects the surrounding panorama, creates perfect conditions for impressive landscape photos. There are also swimming pools, hotels, and campsites around the lake for those wishing to make it a vacation destination.
• Interesting perspectives: The morning mist over the lake and the views from the surrounding hills and viewpoints are particularly photogenic.
• Best photo moment: Sunrise or dusk, when the light is soft and the colors are intense. The reflecting water surface can offer creative possibilities, whether under light clouds or on a completely clear sky.
• Ideal equipment: Depending on your plans and the size of your gear, you can choose a medium messenger, especially if you complement it with a weekender Gen III, which can serve as a travel bag for a few days’ stay at a hotel. If you need space for a tripod, extra jacket, and provisions, but don't want to look too functional while dining at the lake, the backpack Gen III is ideal.

5. Bad Wildbad (Höhenweg, Baumwipfelpfad & Viewpoints)

• Why it's worth a visit: Bad Wildbad in the northern Black Forest is a lovely and popular spa town, with wonderful walks through the park and surrounding trails. Just outside, you'll find the attractions Höhenweg and Baumwipfelpfad, offering unparalleled views and vistas.
• Interesting perspectives: Wide-angle panoramas from the Baumwipfelpfad, views of the town and surrounding area from above, or romantic street photography in the spa town. The possibilities are diverse and varied.
• Best photo moment: Depending on your focus, different times of the day can be ideal. In summer, an early start is recommended when the viewpoints are not yet crowded. During icy, slippery, and/or snowy weather, the Baumwipfelpfad is closed for safety reasons.
• Ideal equipment: If you're not dealing with large temperature variations in spring or summer and don't need to transport extensive, heavy gear, a leather shoulder bag like the little messenger or even the nano messenger for a compact camera will suffice. This way, you won’t stand out as a photographer in the spa town of Bad Wildbad. In the restaurants and cafés in the old town, you can relax and enjoy your meal. If you're planning longer hikes along the scenic paths, the Element and Adapt lines are perfect.