Rehleitenkopf via Wanderweg 8

Starting near the picturesque town of Rosenheim, Germany, the Rehleitenkopf via Wanderweg 8 trail offers an invigorating hike through the Bavarian Alps. This out-and-back trail spans approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) with an elevation gain of around 800 meters (2,625 feet), making it a moderately challenging adventure suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards Rosenheim and follow signs to the nearby village of Bad Feilnbach, where you can find parking options. For those using public transport, take a train to Rosenheim station and then a bus to Bad Feilnbach. From there, it's a short walk to the trailhead.

### Trail Overview The trail begins near the village of Bad Feilnbach, a charming locale known for its spa and wellness facilities. As you start your hike, you'll be greeted by lush meadows and dense forests, typical of the Bavarian landscape. The initial part of the trail is relatively gentle, allowing you to warm up as you make your way through the serene surroundings.

### Key Landmarks and Sections #### First Kilometer Within the first kilometer (0.6 miles), you'll encounter a small wooden bridge crossing a babbling brook. This is a great spot to pause and enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature. The trail then starts to ascend more steeply, winding through a dense forest of spruce and fir trees.

#### Midway Point Around the 5-kilometer (3.1 miles) mark, you'll reach a clearing that offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and distant peaks. This is an excellent place to take a break and hydrate. The elevation gain at this point is approximately 400 meters (1,312 feet).

#### Historical Significance As you continue your ascent, you'll come across remnants of old logging paths and possibly even some historical markers indicating the area's past significance in timber production. The Bavarian Alps have a rich history of forestry, and these trails were once vital routes for transporting timber.

### Flora and Fauna The trail is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The flora is equally impressive, with seasonal wildflowers adding splashes of color to the landscape. In the spring and summer months, you might spot rare alpine flowers like the Edelweiss.

### Final Ascent The last stretch of the trail involves a steeper climb, with switchbacks that make the ascent more manageable. As you approach the summit of Rehleitenkopf, the trees thin out, providing unobstructed views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The summit itself offers a 360-degree panorama that is well worth the effort.

### Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use HiiKER, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can enhance your hiking experience.

### Return Journey The descent follows the same path, allowing you to revisit the beautiful landscapes and perhaps notice details you missed on the way up. The return journey is generally quicker, but take care on the steeper sections to avoid slipping.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, moderate challenge, and historical intrigue, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.