Best Hikes in Bavaria: An Ever-Growing List

The southern part of Bavaria is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, dominated by the Alps and filled with countless possibilities. When I moved here in 2018, I found myself drawn to the Bavarian hiking trails every weekend, discovering crystal-clear mountain lakes, cozy mountain huts, and hiking up to high mountain peaks.

This hiking guide is a collection of my favorite hiking trails in the Bavarian Alps – the routes I have hiked, re-hiked, and now consider the best hikes in Bavaria.

I regularly update this list as I uncover new paths, ensuring it reflects the best that Bavaria can offer.
In this hiking guide, I gathered the trails I see as the best hikes in Bavaria, Germany.

Each of these hiking trails is personally tried and tested. I am excited to share my experiences with you and help you find the best hikes in Bavaria. Let`s get started!

In this article, I`ve curated my favorite hiking trails based on the following methodology:

• Categorized by difficulty to help you find the perfect hike easily.
• Each trail`s key attributes are summarized, highlighting the key features of each trail.
• For thrill-seekers, I added a “via Ferrata” (Klettersteig) section as well. They are all beginner-friendly routes, but you`ll need a via Ferrata set to tackle them safely.

Are these the best hikes in Bavaria? Leave a comment if you`d add something to the list!

Classification of the Hikes in Bavaria

I follow the Swiss Alpine Club`s (SAC) to classify the hikes based on difficulty:

• Easy (T1): Hiking
  a well-marked hiking trail with minimal or no incline, no danger of falling
  hiking can be done in regular sports shoes
  
• Moderate: (T2) Mountain Hiking
  hiking trail is mostly well marked with more duration and elevation
  some steady footedness is necessary, hiking shoes are recommended
  risks of falling can`t be excluded
  
• Difficult: (T3) Challenging Mountain Hiking
  sure-footedness is necessary, challenging hiking trail
  partially exposed areas with dangers of falling
  footpath is usually available, if not, then supported by chains and ladders

Easy Hikes in Bavaria (T1)

Let`s start with the easy, but stunningly beautiful hiking routes in Bavaria. They are rather considered as walks, due to their minimum elevation, length, and duration.

These hikes are great for a day in the Bavarian Alps when we want to enjoy the views, without hiking for too long. They suit all fitness levels.

Eibsee Circular Trail (Easy)

The Eibsee loop is a circular walking route around the Eibsee. In the background is the Zugspitze, the highest mountain in Germany. When I have visitors, I often take them here and they are always impressed by the views: it is beautiful in all seasons.

This is a very easy hike and perfect for those days when you want to be in the mountains but you don`t feel like doing a strenuous hike.

From the Eibsee, optionally you can take the cable car up to the Zugspitze, the highest mountain peak in Germany. During the winter, you can ski there, too.

Partnach Gorge (Easy)

The Partnachklamm (Klamm=Gorge) is a beautiful gorge located in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, in the same region as the Eibsee. It is perfect for families to visit: both kids and adults will have great fun going through the tunnels next to the gorge.

The entrance fee costs 10 EUR for adults, 5 EUR for children and dogs. It is open year-round, and its opening hours vary according to the seasons.

Tip: If you are in for a longer hike, check out these hiking route options.

Alpengasthof Neureuth, Tegernsee (Easy)

On sunny days, Tegernsee draws many visitors. Above the Tegernsee, overlooking the Alps and the nearby Schliersee, the Neureuth Hütte is a local favorite. With its panoramic views from the terrace, the Neureuth Hütte is the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional Bavarian meal.

The hike to Neureuth Hütte takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes from the parking lot. The trail is manageable for most, and the stunning scenery at the top makes the effort worthwhile.

Note: Bring cash, as card payment is not accepted at the Neureuth Hütte.

Moderate Hikes in Bavaria (T2)

In this section, you’ll find some of the best hikes in Bavaria that are more challenging. I’ve also categorized them into easy-moderate, moderate, and moderate-challenging hikes.

I’ve completed most of these hikes with my middle-aged dog. If you have some hiking experience and a normal fitness level, hiking these trails will be easily manageable for you.

Note: If you plan to hike in winter, always check the current trail conditions and weather forecast beforehand.

Archenkanzel Viewpoint (Moderate)

I mostly visit places off the beaten path everywhere I go. Although I love the Königssee in the Berchtesgaden National Park, it tends to get crowded.

However, there is a hidden viewpoint hike above the Königsee: the Archenkanzel Viewpoint Hike.
It is a moderately challenging hike with the best views of the Königssee from above. On the hiking trail, you will also see the famous Watzmann mountain up close.

I hiked to the Archankenzel Viewpoint with my dog in February – we found the hike quite easy. It is generally a year-round hike, however, always check the actual weather situation.

Jochberg (Easy-Moderate)

The Jochberg is a favorite among Munich residents. It’s one of the closest mountains to the Bavarian capital and offers some of the best views of the Alps, earning its spot among the best hikes in Bavaria.

For those living in Munich, the Jochberg is also easily accessible by public transportation.

Herzogstand (Moderate)

THe Herzogstand is a classic Bavarian hike, beautiful and well-maintained year-round. It´s next to the Jochberg, making it equally accessible by public transportation from Munich.

It´s more moderate hike than Jochberg, with a longer duration and greater elevation gain. While exposure is minimal, sure-footedness is necessary. The hike to the summit takes about 2h:45mins. During winter, many people bring their ski equipment on their backs, and ski the way down.

Personal story: It was the first mountain I`ve hiked after moving to Munich.
I remember the first time I saw the Alps from the top: hundreds of mountains peaks in front of my eyes. I stayed there for hours, watching the mountains and I thought I have never seen something this beautiful before.

Note: To shorten the hike, stop at the Hütte (Berggasthaus Herzogstand) after 2h:15mins and still enjoy great views.

Steinerne Agnes (Moderate)

The Steinerne Agnes hike is located in the Berchtesgaden National Park. It`s a hidden gem with an interesting forest path, rock formations and wildlife (we saw an ibex!). This is a circular trail and moderately difficult.

We did this hike in January when the weather was mild and there was almost no snow on the entire trail.

Challenging Hikes in Bavaria (T3)

Below hikes are longer, more challenging hiking trails in the Bavarian Alps. A good health condition and sure-footedness is absolutely necessary to be able to embark on these trails.

If you are used to hiking in the Alps and have good stamina, below trails are absolutely worth it!
Even though they are challenging, most of them have very few exposed sections – or none at all.

Schrecksee (Moderate-Challenging)

The Shcrecksee has a view no one would expect in Germany. Located in the Allgäu, this mountain lake looks like a lake straight from a fairytale. You can even swim in the Schrecksee on hot summer days!

During the entire trail, there is little shade, therefore a hat is necessary to protect yourself. There is neither a mountain hut nor any rivers, so make sure to bring enough water and food with you.

Hiking with dog: dogs in excellent condition can manage this hike.

Note: there are no dangerous sections on the Schrecksee hike, however, it is a challenging hike due to the elevation gain.

Tegernseer Hütte (Moderate-Challenging)

I’ve always found this hike quite difficult due to its steep trail, but it deserves a spot among the best hikes in Bavaria thanks to the stunning location of the Tegernseer Hütte. With a history dating back to the early 1900s, the hut is a unique place to enjoy a well-earned beer.

The trail is especially challenging in its first sections, which lead through a steep forest path, with a climbing section near the end. It’s not recommended for dogs.

Important: In 2024, the Tegernseer Hütte stays open until November 2nd. Always check their website for up-to-date information, opening hours, and weather conditions.

Stöhrhaus (Challenging)

The Stöhrhaus is located in Berchtesgaden, on the Untersberg mountain, close to the Berchtesgadener Hochthron peak.

We did this hike as a 2-day trip, starting from Austria. We stayed overnight at the Stöhrhaus, then hiked down to Berchtesgaden the next day. Staying in the mountain hut was an unforgettable experience. Since I had my dog with me, we got a separate, dog-friendly room just for the two of us (regular rooms usually have at least 4 beds).

During the hike, we spotted ibex and enjoyed incredible natural beauty. The two-day journey offered breathtaking sunset and sunrise views, along with delicious food at the hut. I highly recommend staying at this mountain hut.

Click the button below to read the full hiking guide.

Auerspitz – Soinsee (Moderate-Challenging)

Kramerspitz (Challenging)

For the trails listed below, you will need a Klettersteig set. These Via Ferratas are considered beginner-friendly, but only if you have the proper gear.

Mittenwalder Höhenweg (Via Ferrata)

Tegelberg Gelbe Wand (Via Ferrata)

Hope you found this list helpful. If you know of a hiking trail that should be included in the best hikes in Bavaria, leave a comment! 🙂

Further Hiking Trails in there Alps

I highly recommend the following hiking routes in Austria:
– Best Hidden Viewpoint: Plansee Viewpoint Hike
– Overall Best: Zittauer Hütte Hik