Großer Feldberg

The Großer Feldberg stands at 879.5 meters (2,885 feet) above sea level and is the highest summit in the Taunus range and throughout Hesse. On top sit an observation tower, a transmission mast, and several buildings that serve as destinations for hikers and visitors.

The first known settlement on the summit occurred during Roman times when a fort was built on the height. In the 20th century, transmission facilities and tourist infrastructure developed here, making the mountain an important destination for the region.

The name comes from the Old High German word for open field, referring to the treeless summit that has served as a landmark for centuries. Hikers and day-trippers use the summit area today as a popular meeting place, especially on weekends when motorcyclists and cyclists gather in front of the characteristic observation tower.

Multiple marked trails lead from surrounding towns such as Oberursel and Königstein to the summit, with ascents taking between 45 minutes and two hours depending on the starting point. At the top, visitors find a restaurant and restrooms, and in winter the road access by car can become difficult when snow arrives.

Two small ski lifts operate on the northern slopes near Oberreifenberg and enable winter descents when enough snow falls. The lifts are among the few winter sports facilities in the Rhine-Main area and attract many families with children when snow conditions allow.