It is single-track and standard gauge, and was originally 22.8 km (14.2 mi) long, connecting the main Remsbahn line at Schorndorf to Welzheim.

Today it is operated in two sections, with the first 11.5 km (7.1 mi) from Schorndorf to Rudersberg served by a regular passenger service, whilst the final 11.3 km (7.0 mi) forms a steam operated heritage railway.

The Schorndorf to Rudersberg section is operated by the Württembergische Eisenbahn-Gesellschaft (WEG), a member of the Transdev group.

The Rudersberg to Welzheim section is leased to, and operated by, the Schwäbische Waldbahn GmbH.

[1][2] Passenger services on the Rudersberg to Welzheim section of the Wieslauftalbahn use a fleet of 6 single unit railcars.