Obereck

The Obereck rises to 1,176.6 m as the third-highest summit in the Central Black Forest, after the Kandel and the Weißtannenhöhe. Its rounded top sits on a narrow ridge that splits away from the main chain between the Rohrhardsberg and the Brend. The mountain overlooks the valley of the Wild Gutach, which lies about 700 m below. To the south the Griesbach stream and to the north the Haslachsimonswälder Bach enclose the slopes. The Kostgfäll Gorge marks the northern boundary of this upland block. The Obereck’s slopes still carry traces of ice-age glaciation. Cirque-like hollows and moraines remain visible on the northern side. Most of the original mixed forest has been replaced by spruce plantations from intensive forestry. A few ski runs exist but there are no lifts, and the dense tree cover keeps the summit largely hidden from view. The mountain is reached by several footpaths, including a demanding arête scramble. Visitors find quiet trails winding through spruce woods on the lower slopes. The rocky crest offers a challenging climb for experienced hikers. Nearby villages in Simonswald provide places to stay overnight. The Kostgfäll Gorge lies close but is not directly connected to the summit by marked routes.