Best via ferrata hiking trails in Germany
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Best via ferrata hiking trails in Germany

Ready for a real adventure? These via ferrata trails feature metal rungs and ladders built into the rock, giving you a secure yet thrilling way to scale cliffs and peaks.

Here are some great trails to explore in Germany.

Most popular trails

1

Difficult

Zugspitze to Alpspitze via Aeussere and Jubilaeumsgrat

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany · star 4.0 (3) · 7.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 24 min

2

Extra Difficult

Grünstein Loop from Königssee

Berchtesgadener Land, Germany · star 5.0 (6) · 6.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 30 min

3

Difficult

Schrammsteine, Müllerstein and Lehnwächter Loop

Sächsische Schweiz-Osterzgebirge, Germany · star 4.0 (4) · 5.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 53 min

4

Difficult

Mittelchen Klettersteig and Linksrheinischer Jakobsweg Loop

Rhein-Hunsrück-Kreis, Germany · star 5.0 (3) · 5.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 39 min

5

Difficult

Unterer Gaisalpsee and Rubihornsteig Walk via Winterwanderung Zur Gaisalpe

Oberallgäu, Germany · star 4.0 (5) · 11.8 km · Est. 4 hrs 18 min

6

Difficult

Schrammsteine, Hinterer Torsteinkegel and Kleiner Falknerturm Loop via Malerweg

Sächsische Schweiz-Osterzgebirge, Germany · star 5.0 (9) · 7.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 27 min

7

Difficult

Eichkopf and Gottschlägtal - Karlsruher Grat via Geniesserpfad Karisruher Grat

Ortenaukreis, Germany · star 4.0 (11) · 12.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 55 min

8

Easy

Mäuseklippe via Alte Rodelbahn

Harz, Germany · star 5.0 (3) · 8.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 1 min

9

Difficult

Cond to Neef via Calmont Klettersteig

Cochem-Zell, Germany · star 5.0 (4) · 15.0 km · Est. 4 hrs 39 min

10

Medium

Rheinfels Castle to Oberwesel Walk via Kurzer Pfad and Lochbachwasserfall

Rhein-Hunsrück-Kreis, Germany · star 5.0 (4) · 9.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 34 min

SHOW MORE TRAILS

Reviews for via ferrata hiking trails in Germany

Zoe Pagac avatar

Zugspitze to Alpspitze via Aeussere and Jubilaeumsgrat

HavenSprinter86 · reviewed 10 months ago

star star star star star

Robert Wallace avatar

Grünstein Loop from Königssee

Braveheart · reviewed 8 months ago

star star star star star

Brenton Abernathy avatar

Schrammsteine, Müllerstein and Lehnwächter Loop

SummitSummitview52 · reviewed 4 months ago

star star star star star

Wilber Franecki avatar

Mittelchen Klettersteig and Linksrheinischer Jakobsweg Loop

HorizonVoyager30 · reviewed 3 months ago

star star star star star

Sen. Freda Daniel avatar

Unterer Gaisalpsee and Rubihornsteig Walk via Winterwanderung Zur Gaisalpe

HavenTracer71 · reviewed 12 months ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Germany

What is the climate like for hiking in Germany?

Germany has a temperate seasonal climate, with moderate to heavy rainfall throughout the year. Winter (December to February) can bring snowfall, particularly in mountainous regions like the Alps, making hiking challenging but scenic.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) provide mild weather, lush landscapes, and fewer tourists, making these seasons ideal for exploring trails such as the Rheinsteig or the Black Forest.
Summer (June to August) offers warm temperatures, though it can occasionally be hot, especially in lower-lying regions. It's a popular time for hiking, but trails can be crowded. More info: Hiking in Germany.

Do I need a permit to hike in Germany?

Generally, hiking in Germany doesn't require permits. But certain protected areas may have restrictions, especially in national parks and biosphere reserves. It's always a good idea to check with local tourist information centers or park authorities for specific guidance. More info here: German National Tourist Board.

Is wild camping allowed in Germany?

Wild camping is generally prohibited in Germany, with exceptions for emergency bivouacs. Violations can result in fines. Instead, consider "Trekking Bayern" in Bavaria or "Waldcamping" in Brandenburg, offering legal wild camping experiences. More information: Trekking Bayern and Waldcamping.

Are there mountain rescue services in Germany?

In case of emergencies in the German mountains, the Bergwacht (Mountain Rescue Service) is responsible for rescue operations. Dial European emergency number 112 for immediate assistance. It's advised to have adequate insurance to cover potential rescue costs. More information here: http://www.opencms.org/en/modules/reference_sites/references_00070.html.

Are there dangerous plants in Germany?

Germany's diverse landscapes host an array of flora. The Black Forest is known for fir and beech trees, while the Alpine regions showcase colorful wildflower displays in spring and summer. Hikers should respect conservation efforts by sticking to marked trails. More info: https://flora.biz/en/.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Germany?

German wildlife is rich and varied, with deer, boars, and foxes common sights, especially in forested areas. Birds such as eagles, owls, and woodpeckers are frequently observed. Ticks are prevalent in spring and summer; hikers should take preventive measures. More info here: German Wildlife Information.

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