The Rieslochfälle are among the most beautiful waterfalls in the Bavarian Forest, hidden in a wild gorge near Bodenmais. Across five main cascades, the water drops a total of 55 meters, with the main fall alone plunging 15 meters — a truly impressive sight, especially after snowmelt or heavy rain.

The Riesloch gorge was carved by headward erosion into gneiss bedrock and stretches for 1.6 km at an elevation of 780 to 920 meters. It's surrounded by ancient mixed and spruce forests, with moss-covered boulders and rare plant and animal species dating back to the Ice Age. The atmosphere here feels almost primeval — damp air, the roar of falling water, and lush green moss create a unique microclimate, especially magical in spring and summer, though icy rocks in winter have their own stark beauty.

How to get there

• Bodenmais — trail through the Riesloch gorge, approx. 2 km, easy to moderate difficulty
• The classic route continues through Riesloch all the way up to the Großer Arber summit

Practical information

• The area is protected as the Riesloch Nature Reserve (32.9 ha) and an adjoining forest reserve (48.5 ha)
• Visitors must stay on marked paths within the reserve
• The waterfalls are designated an important geotope by the Bavarian State Office for the Environment

Fun fact: since 1908, some of the water has been diverted for hydroelectric power, reducing the falls' natural flow — yet they still captivate visitors with their beauty and force.