Trusetaler Wasserfall
Tucked into a narrow granite gorge on the edge of Trusetal, this 58-metre waterfall tumbles in three roaring cascades over volcanic rock formations — an engineered spectacle that has drawn hikers since 1865. Climb the 228 carved steps beside the torrent and the view from the top will stop you cold.
A Victorian feat of water engineering
Inspired by the dramatic granite-and-porphyry cliffs of the Truse valley, building surveyor Specht directed local miners in 1865 to divert the River Truse through a 3.5-kilometre artificial channel, releasing it where the rock faces are most theatrical.
The water plunges in three distinct cascades into a collecting basin before rejoining its natural bed — an effect that feels entirely wild despite being entirely man-made.
Walking the waterfall loop
A signed circular trail begins at the base with those 228 stone steps hugging the cliff face; from the top platform the full force of the drop is genuinely breathtaking, especially after spring snowmelt.
The path continues through mixed Thuringian forest and loops back past the neighbouring Zwergenpark, making the full circuit a leisurely 60–90 minutes.
Café Wintersport: post-hike reward
Right beside the falls, Café Wintersport serves fresh waffles in multiple varieties, homemade cakes and ice-cream specialities on a sunny terrace overlooking the water — the ideal place to decompress after the climb.
The café's name is a loving tribute to Brotterode's winter-sports heritage, and the interior decor tells that story warmly.
Trusetaler Wasserfall on video
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