Wutachschlucht, Protected area in Black Forest, Germany
Wutachschlucht is a protected area in the Black Forest that follows a river valley cutting through rock formations across several municipalities. The gorge descends through forested slopes where water flows between narrow passages and wider sections along its course.
The gorge became a protected area in 1939 to safeguard its natural character from development. Earlier periods saw industrial use along the river, leaving traces that remain visible within the landscape today.
The gorge's paths were laid out by the Schwarzwaldverein; the Ludwig-Neumann-Weg through the middle section is one of its most elaborate route systems, rebuilt after floods destroyed the first bridges. The Stallegg Bridge, a covered wooden crossing on the old path between Fürstenberg estates, still spans the river. The Wutachmühle at the first road bridge keeps a sawmill and a kiosk.
Trails through the gorge are best walked between May and October when ground conditions allow easier passage. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and expect changing terrain as paths follow the river through varied sections.
Below the few remains of Stallegg Castle, a small reservoir belonging to the Stallegg Electricity Works, built in 1895, slows the Wutach. The covered wooden Stallegg Bridge just downstream carried the old path between the Fürstenberg estates on either side of the gorge.
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