Col du Hundsruck and Col du Schirm Mountain Passes in Vosges

The road section discussed here is located in the Vosges region of France, within the Alsace administrative area. It runs near the town of Thann, which is both the nearest settlement to the start and end points of this route. The road traverses the Vosges mountain range, a notable mountainous area in northeastern France known for its forested hills and scenic landscapes. This route includes two mountain passes: Col du Hundsruck at an elevation of 748 m (2,454 ft) and Col du Schirm at 604 m (1,982 ft). The road is situated in a region popular for outdoor activities and viewpoints, making it a relevant route for motorcyclists interested in mountain riding. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of the article.

The D 14bIV road section is approximately 14.9 kilometers (9.2 miles) long and features an asphalt surface of very good quality, rated 4.5 out of 5. The road is moderately twisty, providing a dynamic riding experience without extreme curves. It has mostly two lanes (about 77%) with a smaller portion of one-lane sections (about 14%). The road width is predominantly wide (about 73%), with some middle and narrow sections. Speed limits vary along the route, with maximum speeds of 50, 80, and 30 km/h (31, 50, and 19 mph) depending on the segment. Approximately 35% of the road passes through inhabited areas, primarily near the town of Thann and other small settlements along the way. The road runs along a viewpoint attraction, offering riders opportunities to stop and appreciate the surrounding mountain scenery.

This route includes two mountain passes that are significant landmarks for riders. The Col du Hundsruck, at 748 m (2,454 ft), is the higher of the two and is well documented on French Wikipedia (Col du Hundsruck). It offers a classic mountain pass experience with moderate elevation gain and well-maintained road conditions. The Col du Schirm, at 604 m (1,982 ft), is slightly lower but still provides a notable mountain crossing within the Vosges range. Both passes contribute to the road's character as a mountain pass route and are key points of interest for motorcyclists exploring this part of the Vosges.

The road runs along a viewpoint that allows riders to enjoy panoramic views of the Vosges mountains. The Vosges mountain range itself is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, cycling, and nature observation opportunities. The region is known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage, with the nearby town of Thann providing amenities and historical sites. For more information about the mountain range, see the Massif des Vosges Wikipedia page.

This article focuses on the D 14bIV road section in the Vosges mountains, which is suitable for motorcyclists seeking a moderately twisty mountain pass ride with good road conditions. The road is accessible year-round, although riders should verify local conditions during winter months due to potential snow or ice. There are no known tolls or entrance fees on this road, but riders should check official French road information sources for updates. An interactive map showing the exact route of this road section is provided below for reference.