The Herzogstand in the Bavarian Alps is one of the few hiking trails that`s perfectly maintained all year round. Need a little extra motivation? There is a mountain hut along the way serving beer and traditional Bavarian meals!
I`ve hiked this mountain in every season, and it is my go-to choice that never disappoints
This article is about the Herzogstand hike in Bavaria: I`ll share with you what the hiking trail is like + what to expect in each season.
Let`s start!
Herzogstand Hike Summary
Difficulty: Easy/Medium
Starting Point: Kesselberg Parkplatz
Parking: 7 EUR / Day
Hike Duration: Ascent 2h:45mins; Descent 2h:00mins
Length: ca 15km
Minimum-Maximum Elevation: ca. 900m-1731m
Elevation Gain: 830m
Places to Eat & Drink: Herzogstandhaus (1575m) – after 2 hours hike
When to Hike: Year-Round
Suitable for Kids/Dogs: Yes (no dangerous sections)
Hiking Map + Trail Alternatives
Below is a map of the Herzogstand hiking trail. There are several parking lots near the starting point, but they fill up fast on weekends. Starting early (or late on long summer days) is a smart thing to do.
Longer Alternative Route: From Herzogstand, you can hike along a ridge to Heimgarten (1790m), and descend towards the Herzogstandbahn. I haven`t done this route myself, but is looks exciting if you are up for a more strenuous hike.
Read more about the Heimgarten-Herzogstand loop here.
Shorter Alternative Route: For an easier option, go to the Jochberg. The hike starts at the same point (Kesselberg Passhöhe), only on the other side of the street. The Jochberg hike takes around 3 hours to complete.
Read more about the Jochberg Hike here.
Getting to the Trailhead
Most hikers head to Herzogstand from Munich, the Bavarian capital. Why so? The Herzogstand (and the Jochberg next to it) is one of the closest mountains to Munich. It is often referred to as the best hike near Munich.
The trailhead is easily accessible by both car and public transportation.
Gallery of the Herzogstand Trail
We reached the Herzogstandhaus after 2 hours (not 3) 
Beginning of the hike 
First viewpoint after 10 minutes 
The terrain is a gravel path 
Plenty of water sources for dogs 
Peak views during fall 
Forest path 
Kochelsee and the Starnberger See 
Getting close to the top 
Quick fuel stop 
First blicks of the peak 
Hiking in the Bavarian Alps is great 
Walchensee and the Jochberg
Herzogstand in All Seasons
The terrain at the Herzogstand is a crushed gravel trail. It means that even if it rains, it prevents mud buildup. This type of terrain makes it possible to hike here no matter the weather – even if it rains, the hiking trail does not become muddy.
Here is what to expect in each season:
Autumn at Herzogstand
From early October until mid-November, the trees turn colorful – easily my favorite time for this hike.
Even with frequent rain, the trail stays solid and manageable, so you can still enjoy the scenery without worrying about muddy paths.
Hiking trail during October The colours of Herzogstand
Winter at Herzogstand
The hiking trail is well maintained also during the winter months. The trail is not that steep, therefore even if it snows, you can hike here.
Pro Tip: take your skis or sledge with you and make a fun ride on the way down!
Herzogstand trail covered in snow The Herzogstand equally beautiful in winter
Spring/Summer at Herzogstand
In the warmer months, combine your Herzogstand hike with a trip to the Walchensee. The Walchensee is great for a summer swim! Take your SUP board with you for an even better experience.
Lunch at the Hütte
The Berggasthaus Herzogstand is at an altitude of 1575m and stays open almost entirely throughout the year. They serve traditional Bavarian meals such as Schnitzel, Currywurst with Pommes, Lentil soups, and Kaiserschmarrn.
Rest Days: The Hütte is closed on Monday-Tuesday.
2024 Season: Between 11.11-25.12.2024, the Hütte is closed due to company vacation.
Pro Tip: If you don`t want to hike up until the top, make this Hütte your destination with great panoramic views. You can reach it after two hours of hiking from the trailhead.
Hütte at 1575m altitude A well-deserved beer for lunch
Further Destinations in Bavaria
Whether you are in Bavaria for a short time or live here, below is a collection of the best places to visit in the area.
Towns:
- The most beautiful medieval town: Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Visit Munich: 5 Days in Munich Itinerary
Hikes:
- Most scenic lake: Schrecksee, Allgäu
- Sleep in a mountain hut: Stöhrhaus, Berchtesgaden
- Secret Viewpoint at the Königssee: Archenkanzel Viewpoint
- Next to Herzogstand: Jochberg
- An Ever Growing List: Best Hikes in Bavaria
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