Kleiner Zschirnstein, Mountain summit in Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany

Kleiner Zschirnstein is a sandstone summit in Saxon Switzerland rising to approximately 473 meters. The peak features sheer rock walls on its northern face and a more gradual descent toward the south.

The name Zschirnstein derives from Slavic roots, reflecting early settlement patterns in this region during medieval times. German communities later became the dominant population in this part of Saxon Switzerland.

Around 1870 a hollow on the plateau was wrongly interpreted as the site of a pagan cult place; it is in fact a weathering hollow. The free-standing rock towers on the north side are used as climbing summits, reached from the plateau and the slopes above Kleingießhübel.

Several marked hiking trails lead to the summit, with the main route starting from Kleingießhübel village and ascending through thick forest. Sturdy footwear is advisable due to steep sections and rocky terrain.

On the plateau there are several trough-shaped hollows formed by weathering. One of them was mistakenly interpreted around 1870 as the site of a pagan cult place. A large rockfall also occurred here on 13 April 1844.