How Hike to Schrecksee: 8 Essential Things to Know

The Schrecksee is one of Germany`s most beautiful and most underrated lakes. Being Germany`s highest alpine lake, it is only accessible through a hiking trail.

Although it might be one of the best hikes in Bavaria, due to its 1813m altitude, some preparations are necessary before the hike. 

When I hiked to Schreckee, I was not well-prepared: I tremendously underestimated this trek. I thought I would have a pleasant walk up there with plenty of water refill points. I was so wrong!

Therefore, I collected 8 essential things to know about the Schrecksee trail – so you come well-prepared.

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What to Expect on the Hike to Schrecksee

I wasn’t prepared when I hiked to Lake Schrecksee. I spontaneously drove from Munich to the Allgäu region for a day trip and started the trek without much thought or planning. Honestly, it was a struggle.

So, I put together everything I wish I’d known before hiking this trail.

1. The Hike to Schrecksee is Long and Tiring

You read that right — the Schrecksee hike is long and exhausting. We finished it in 7 hours (up and down) and were completely wiped out by the end. Since you’ll want to relax at the lake for a while, plan for a full-day hike.

Start early! The first bus to the trailhead leaves at 7:15 AM — take it if you want plenty of time at the lake.

2. How to Reach the Schrecksee Trailhead

You can’t park directly at the trailhead (Kraftwerk Auele), so getting there takes a bit of planning:

1. Park your car.
   Where to park: Auf der Höh Parkplatz, Hinterstein
   Parking Costs: 10 EUR for the day. Card payment is possible.
   
2. Take bus no. 50 towards Giebelhaus.
   The bus stop is next to the parking lot. It costs 6 EUR one-way per person, dogs are allowed.
   Timetable: Check the 2025 bus timetable.
   Until May, the first bus leaves at 09:15 from Hinterstein.
   After 11th May, it first bus goes at around 7:15 am.
   
3. Get off the bus at Kraftwerk Auele/Schrecksee bus stop.
   
4. The trail starts immediately to your right — just follow the signs to Schrecksee and start your hike.

Alternatively, you can walk to the trailhead from the parking lot, but it adds 45 minutes each way.

3. It is Best to Visit between June and September

Most of the year, the Schrecksee and its surroundings are covered with snow. It`s not until the summer months that the snow melts and the terrain dries out. Also, until mid-May, the buses depart later to the trailhead start.

If you choose to ascend to the lake before the snow melts, the terrain will be very muddy.

4. Swim in the Lake on Hot Summer Days

I did not take my swimwear with me, as I assumed the lake must be very cold. Again, I was wrong.
The lake temperature was very pleasant and would have been ideal for taking a dip.

On that note, don`t forget your swimsuit at home on hot summer days.

5. Bring Enough Water and Food

There are no mountain huts anywhere near the trail. Thus, bringing enough water and food with you is necessary.

Water: You need at least 3-4 liters of water. For better hydration, add some salt or electrolytes to your water.
Food: As for the food, I personally feel best when I have oatmeal with quark and fruits. Additionally, I also prepare some sandwiches and energy bars for long hikes.

6. Prepare your Camera for the Best Views

Once you arrive at the lake, you will want to take loads of photos the stunning scenery high in the Allgäu Alps.

At the top, if you still have energy left, you can hike a bit further upwards for even better views and photo spots.

7. Take Trekking Poles + Baseball Cap with you

Despite being a frequent hiker, I do not use trekking poles too often. However, the first part of this hike is quite steep, with loose rocks. Because of the loose terrain, it was hard for me to get ahead without hiking poles.

Luckily, a friend of mine helped me out with his trekking poles: it helped me greatly during the tiring trail.

During the trail there are little to no shaded areas, therefore wearing a baseball cap is a must.

8. The Terrain is not Dangerous

Despite the duration (7 hours) and altitude difference of the trail (1000m), the Schrecksee Wanderung (as the Germans would say) has no dangerous sections. Thus, it can be suitable for dogs and kids as well. They need to be used to hiking and be quite fit, though.

My 5 year old Labrador had no issues completing the trail with ease.

*Please take all necessary precautions, as all mountain hikes have possible risks.

Points of Interest at the Schrecksee – Map

– Parking Lot (at the same place, you can hop on the Bus no.50)
– Kraftwerk Auele (Hop off the bus no. 50 + Lake Schrecksee Trail Start)
– Schrecksee (our destination)

Frequently Asked Questions about the Lake Schrecksee

Schrecksee Daily Budget

In 2025, you can count on the following costs for your trip at the Schrecksee:

Parking: 10 EUR / Car (card payment possible)
Bus Ticket: 12 EUR / Person (6 EUR one-way)
Food and snacks from a supermarket: 8-15 EUR / Person

Total Daily Budget: around 30-40 EUR

Looking for Further Adventures nearby?

I often go to the Bavarian Alps and document my favorite adventures here. Check out my collection of the Best Hikes in Bavaria.

Staying in Munich? Check this 5 Days in Munich Travel Itinerary.

If you are keen to see beautiful towns: make sure to check out my guide to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This medieval town is one of a kind.