The roughly 60-kilometre Schwarzwaldhochstraße runs from Baden-Baden through Ruhestein to Freudenstadt in Germany’s Black Forest. The B500 forms the main spine of this scenic route, with views across the Rhine plain towards France in clear weather. A motorcycle outing here can revolve around several stops as much as the distance covered.
One stop is Mummelsee, a glacial lake beneath the Hornisgrinde summit. The photograph shows it in August 2005. Getting off the motorcycle for a walk beside the water offers a closer encounter with the landscape than riding past.
The National Park Centre at Ruhestein stands at around 900 metres above sea level. Its permanent exhibition explores forest life, while the building’s stacked, elongated volumes resemble fallen tree trunks. A pedestrian bridge reaches into the forest and leads to a viewing tower; adverse weather can close these outdoor facilities.
Allow time for both stops and check the centre’s opening hours. In autumn, consult the day’s forecast and road conditions: the heights can differ from the valleys. Choose your route and return time to leave room for unhurried visits.