Hochstein (rocks)

The high stone in the Southwest Palatinate town of Dahn is a very popular with climbers and hikers rock group.

Structure and location

The Hochstein (345 m ) is one of the many sandstone formations that are typical of the Wasgau, which is formed from the southern part of the Palatinate Forest and the northern part of the Vosges. Because the area of Dahn is particularly rich in such structures, it is also called Dahn. When Hochstein is - as with the other rocks of the region - to harder rock, which has partially resisted erosion. The entire massif runs like a dissected rock group to 1.5 km in length east of Dahn on the Wieslauter out.

Particularly striking is the high stone needle, with the start of the massif in the west at the St. Michael's Chapel. It follows the rock tower and the actual Hochsteingrat. From here on foothills are continuing in a north-easterly and southerly direction from which protrudes above all the oats rock.

Climbing history

The first ascent of the Hochstein nobility took place in the 19th century. The first climbers jumped off the rock tower on the needle. When trying to jump back, he fell to his death. The first climb is technically gelunge ascent took place in 1908.

Plant world

Remains of ancient juniper vegetation are especially valuable. Even from the luminous moss in narrow angles of Hochsteingrats not much remains.

Special

In some places the leachate has created especially delicate weathering pattern.

Under overhanging rocks Dahner families sought refuge longer time towards the end of the Second World War. Traces of these emergency shelters are still recognizable.

At the foot of the Hochstein is the Dahner Cemetery and its 2,400 graves one of the largest cemeteries in Germany.