Imagine walking a gentle wooden pathway weaving through tall spruce and oak in the Northern Vosges, rising above the forest canopy to panoramic views—welcome to the Chemin des Cîmes Alsace, also known as the Treetop Walk Alsace. The elevated trail stretches just over 1,050 meters, with a maximum incline of 6%, winding through treetops that soar up to 23 meters above the forest floor. It culminates in a broad, spiraling ramp that ascends into a 29-meter-high observation tower, all crafted from sustainably sourced wood and seamlessly blending into the natural surroundings.
From the moment you step aboard, a sense of adventure unfolds. Scattered along the canopy walkway are discovery stations that invite curiosity: touch displays on local geology, learn about indigenous wildlife, or identify tree bark with your fingertips. A few gentle activity challenges are built right into the path: net bridges sway slightly, wooden beams wobble playfully, and a virtual abyss teases the brave. It’s interactive forest trekking with a sense of discovery around each corner.
The tower standouts as the journey’s highlight. A smooth ramp spirals upward, rewarding every step with expanding views: the rolling Vosges to the west, the Rhine plains stretching eastward, and even the distant Black Forest across the border. On exceptionally clear days, the silhouette of Strasbourg Cathedral can punctuate the horizon. At the top, the outlook is wide enough to make you feel both elevated and eternally connected to the forest beneath.
If you’re the type who enjoys a rush, the 75-meter tunnel slide inside the tower delivers a fast, fun descent through the tower’s core for a small fee. Slide mats are provided, and laughter follows every turn. Prefer to take it slow? The ramp is just as smooth going down at your own pace.
Accessibility is a priority here. The path and tower maintain a gentle gradient suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Benches are generously scattered along the route for rest, and mobility aids such as wheelchairs and buggies are available on request at no cost. The entire site feels thoughtfully designed to welcome people of all ages and abilities.
Plan to spend at least an hour exploring the walkway, more if you linger at viewpoints or kids dart between discovery spots. Operating from early April through early November, the site typically opens from mid-morning to early evening, with extended hours during summer. A shuttle train or a forest walk brings you from designated parking into the heart of the trailhead—driving closer isn’t permitted, preserving forest solitude and safety.
When hunger hits, stop at the onsite restaurant serving rich Alsatian fare—think tarte flambée, hearty stews, and seasonal desserts. Families can trek a bit further to the Adventure Forest playground next door: rope courses, zip lines, trampolines and more offer fresh aerial fun for little climbers.
For a restful stay nearby, the Ferme Auberge du Moulin des Sept Fontaines in Drachenbronn offers a cozy, rural retreat just a short walk from the Chemin des Cîmes Alsace. Set in a tranquil spot surrounded by nature, this farmhouse inn combines traditional Alsatian charm with hearty local cuisine—ideal for unwinding after a day above the treetops.
Chemin des Cîmes Alsace balances awe-inspiring forest immersion with effortless comfort: it’s playful yet serene, inclusive yet wild. Here kids explore learning stations, grandparents glide up ramps, and everyone experiences views that stay vivid long after the walk ends.
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