Edenbach-/Wieslaufschlucht Welzheim
The 42-hectare nature reserve Wieslaufschlucht and Edenbachschlucht is made up of two parts: the Wieslaufschlucht and the gorge of the inflowing Edenbach near the Laufenmühle. Here one can see all the geological strata from Stubensandstein down to the Gipskeuper. The harder sandstone and marlstone levels create steps and waterfalls, while the softer argillite (claystone) levels create embankments and steep faces. The highest waterfalls are located right by the Laufenmühle. Here the Edenbach falls freely for 5 m before cascading over the hard banks of lower Stubensandstein. The waterfall plunges into a rocky basin with enormous sandstone blocks and gigantic jackstraws of fallen trees. Only 50 metres away from the Edenbach waterfall, directly next to the road, the Wieslauf plunges over a ridge. The Edenbach gorge somewhat higher up is gentler. The stream flows quickly in numerous little windings that have created shallow slip-off slopes and sandbanks alternating with steep and undercut banks. Surefootedness and sturdy footwear are absolutely necessary!
Hint: For those who want to hike on marked trails, the gorge can be explored along the Mill Hiking Trailor the Railway Experience Trail.