Allerheiligen
Waterfalls
History
The Allerheiligen Waterfalls are among the most beautiful and highest waterfalls in the Black Forest. They plunge almost 90 meters (295 ft) down the steep cliffs in seven cascades. The gorge, together with the monastery ruins, is a popular tourist destination.
This natural attraction was made accessible in 1840 by a scenic path that leads visitors along the gorge via numerous steps and across several bridges over the waterfalls. Besides the monastery ruins, the waterfalls are the main attraction of Allerheiligen and are a particularly popular destination for nature lovers in the summer.
The waterfalls, which belong to the forest area, remained inaccessible for some time after the monastery was dissolved. The gorge was made accessible in 1840 through the efforts of Forester Eichrodt, head of the Forestry Office Achern and Forest Ranger Mittenmaier, who came to Allerheiligen in 1838.
A path approx. two feet wide was constructed, requiring the use of ladders to overcome the rock faces at the seven waterfalls. This was, of course, very adventurous for hikers and tourists, but also quite dangerous. After the development and using ladders to ascent became known, the Grand Ducal Court Chamber in Karlsruhe started to take interest. In 1842, they provided a total of 100 guilders to build a wider and safer path for the public. Stairs replaced ladders and dangerous sections were secured with railings.