Point-to-point hike - On the trail of iron mining - Saalfeld-Thuringian Forest

Along excavation sites and spoil heaps, you ascend to the summit cross on the Eisenberg (636 m, rest area), from where there is a wonderful view of the northern foreland of the Thuringian Forest. Past the Hotel Mellestollen (refreshment opportunity) the route runs through the Wittmannsgereuther Valley. Iron ore was mined here until the last century and transported by a 10 km-long cableway to the Maxhütte. At Wachserzweg information panels explain the history of local mining. From the bus stop in Unterwirbach, walk to the church. Opposite it, the hiking trail marked with a yellow cross-stripe begins. The entry point is somewhat hard to find. After a few meters, you reach the Three-Cities Trail. Follow the joint path of both trails uphill in switchbacks. Then follows a longer steep ascent. At Röderberg, both paths separate. Follow the yellow marking further uphill. Over the Eichköpfe, Schautalskopf you reach the Rondell. Here turn left. Shortly after, you reach the Blockhalde fork. If you wish, you can make a detour to the Blockhalde. Follow the trail marking towards the summit cross/Eisenberg. To reach the summit cross, briefly leave the main path. At the summit cross, a beautiful large cabin awaits you and a wonderful view to the northern foreland of the Thuringian Forest. After a short break, continue on the yellow-marked main path to Lehmborn, at the forest edge. From here the hike continues left without markings. It is advisable to use a GPS device with the mapped route to Hotel Mellestollen. The walk follows narrow paths always near the forest edge over the Gehrensteiner Wasserlöcher, Fuchsloch to Hotel Mellestollen. Here is a refreshment opportunity. From the hotel entrance, a small staircase leads down to the access road. Follow the road downhill into the valley. On the left side of the road, a path marked with a yellow square begins. The path winds along the Siechenbach through the Wittmannsgereuther Valley to the entrance to Saalfeld. In the Wittmannsgereuther Valley stood a powder mill that exploded in an accident. Cross over a small wooden bridge to the right side. Shortly after, you stand at the foot of Spitzberg. From here, go straight on the street "Am Spitzberg" and then on the "Wachserzweg" path to the junction "Zum Brendelsgarten." Here turn right, then after a few meters turn left again, and on your right is the Thuringia Clinic.