Grosser Feldberg from Oberursel-Hohemark

The Grosser Feldberg hike from Oberursel-Hohemark is the classic Taunus summit outing from Frankfurt am Main in Hesse, Germany. The Grosser Feldberg rises to about 881 m and is the highest point of the Taunus, about 25 km north-west of central Frankfurt. The trailhead is the Hohemark U-Bahn terminus (line U3) in Oberursel (Taunus), reached from Frankfurt Hauptwache in about 40 minutes. A seasonal bus to the Feldberg runs on some weekends and holidays, but visitors should confirm at rmv.de before relying on it. Car parking exists near the Hohemark but fills quickly on fine weekends. No permit or fee is needed for the paths. The route covers about 8 km one way (approximate) with a climb of roughly 540 m, taking about 2 hours 30 minutes up and 2 hours down. That sustained uphill without exposure places it in the moderate class. Surfaces are forest tracks, gravel and rooty trail, and the upper slopes can be muddy after rain and icy in winter. Shade is good in the lower forest, while the summit plateau is open and windy, often several degrees colder than Frankfurt. Landmarks include the forest climb through beech and spruce, the open Feldbergplateau at 61389 Schmitten with its transmitter masts and lookout points, and, in clear weather, long views toward the Rhine-Main region. A sensible turn-around is any point where weather deteriorates, and walkers can also descend by the same route or use public transport options from the plateau area when running. Water and food are available at summit-area facilities in the main season, though opening times vary, so a litre and a half of water is advisable. There are no alpine-style refuge huts, but the summit area has buildings and refreshment options when open. Autumn gives clear air and colour; winter can be beautiful but requires care on frozen sections.