Hiking in the Bavarian Alps: Best Hikes Near Garmisch & Germany Hiking Trails for Beginners

The Bavarian Alps offer some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in Europe, combining stunning mountain vistas, lush meadows, and charming alpine villages. Whether you’re a beginner looking for gentle walks or an experienced hiker seeking challenging routes, the region around Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a perfect destination.

This guide covers:
✔ Best hikes near Garmisch for all skill levels
✔ Germany hiking trails for beginners
✔ Essential tips for hiking in the Bavarian Alps

Why Hike in the Bavarian Alps?

The Bavarian Alps, part of the larger Northern Limestone Alps, feature:
✅ Diverse trails – From easy valley walks to steep mountain climbs
✅ Stunning scenery – Crystal-clear lakes, rugged peaks, and flower-filled meadows
✅ Excellent infrastructure – Well-marked paths, mountain huts (Berghütten), and cable cars
✅ Cultural charm – Traditional Bavarian villages and cozy alpine huts serving local food

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a world-famous ski and hiking resort, is the ideal base for exploring these trails.

Best Hikes Near Garmisch-Partenkirchen

1. Partnach Gorge (Partnachklamm) – Best for Beginners & Families

📍 Distance: 4 km (round trip)
⏳ Duration: 1.5–2 hours
⬆ Elevation Gain: Minimal
💡 Difficulty: Easy

One of Germany’s most famous natural wonders, the Partnach Gorge features a dramatic narrow canyon with rushing waterfalls and towering cliffs. A well-maintained path (partly tunnels and bridges) makes this an exciting but safe hike.

Highlights:
✔ Walk through a 80-meter-deep gorge
✔ Waterfalls and ice formations (in winter)
✔ Option to extend the hike to Eckbauer for panoramic views

2. Alpspitze Panorama Trail – Moderate Hike with Stunning Views

📍 Distance: 11 km (loop)
⏳ Duration: 4–5 hours
⬆ Elevation Gain: 600 m
💡 Difficulty: Moderate

For hikers wanting panoramic views without extreme difficulty, the Alpspitze Panorama Trail is perfect. Starting from the Kreuzeckbahn cable car, this trail offers sweeping vistas of the Zugspitze and surrounding peaks.

Highlights:
✔ Stunning views of Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze
✔ Well-marked paths with some steep sections
✔ Option to descend via cable car

3. Höllentalklamm (Hell’s Valley Gorge) – A Thrilling Adventure

📍 Distance: 10 km (round trip)
⏳ Duration: 4–5 hours
⬆ Elevation Gain: 700 m
💡 Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

A more intense version of Partnachklamm, Höllentalklamm takes you through a deep, misty gorge with roaring waterfalls. The trail leads towards the Zugspitze base and is ideal for those who enjoy dramatic landscapes.

Highlights:
✔ Narrow wooden bridges and tunnels
✔ Cool mist from waterfalls (great in summer)
✔ Connects to longer hikes towards Zugspitze

4. Eibsee Loop – Easy & Scenic Lake Hike

📍 Distance: 7 km (loop)
⏳ Duration: 2–3 hours
⬆ Elevation Gain: Minimal
💡 Difficulty: Easy

Eibsee, a stunning emerald-green lake near the Zugspitze, offers one of the most relaxing and picturesque hikes in Bavaria. The flat loop trail is ideal for families and beginners.

Highlights:
✔ Crystal-clear waters with views of Zugspitze
✔ Swimming spots in summer
✔ Option to take a boat ride

5. Kramer Plateau Trail – Best for Sunset Views

📍 Distance: 8 km (loop)
⏳ Duration: 3–4 hours
⬆ Elevation Gain: 400 m
💡 Difficulty: Moderate

Starting from Garmisch, this trail leads to the Kramer Plateau, offering unmatched sunset views over the Alps. The ascent is steady but not too steep, making it a great mid-level hike.

Highlights:
✔ Panoramic views of the Loisach Valley
✔ Perfect for sunset photography
✔ Option to extend to Kramerspitze for advanced hikers

Germany Hiking Trails for Beginners

If you’re new to hiking, Bavaria offers plenty of easy yet rewarding trails with minimal elevation gain.

1. Königsee to Malerwinkel (Berchtesgaden National Park)

📍 Distance: 4 km (round trip)
⏳ Duration: 1.5 hours
💡 Difficulty: Easy

A gentle walk along Germany’s most beautiful lake, Königsee, leading to the Malerwinkel viewpoint.

2. Tegernsee Loop (Bavarian Pre-Alps)

📍 Distance: 6 km (loop)
⏳ Duration: 2 hours
💡 Difficulty: Easy

A lakeside hike with charming Bavarian villages and mountain reflections.

3. Neuschwanstein Castle to Marienbrücke

📍 Distance: 3 km (round trip)
⏳ Duration: 1 hour
💡 Difficulty: Easy

A short walk to the famous Marienbrücke bridge for the best views of Neuschwanstein Castle.

Essential Tips for Hiking in the Bavarian Alps

✔ Check the weather – Mountain conditions change quickly.
✔ Wear proper footwear – Sturdy hiking boots with grip are a must.
✔ Pack layers – Temperatures vary, especially at higher altitudes.
✔ Bring water & snacks – Many trails have huts, but not all.
✔ Respect trail markers – Follow the red-white-red signs for main trails.
✔ Use public transport – The Bayernticket offers unlimited regional travel.

Final Thoughts

The Bavarian Alps, especially around Garmisch-Partenkirchen, offer some of the best hiking in Germany. Whether you’re a beginner looking for scenic valley walks or an experienced hiker ready for alpine challenges, there’s a trail for you.

Best Easy Hikes:

• Partnach Gorge
• Eibsee Loop
• Neuschwanstein Castle Trail

Best Moderate Hikes:

• Alpspitze Panorama Trail
• Kramer Plateau
• Höllentalklamm

Start planning your Bavarian hiking adventure today!