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Best waterfall hiking trails in Germany
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Best waterfall hiking trails in Germany

If the calming sound of cascading water fills your soul with joy, you're in for a treat. These waterfall trails will have you chasing misty rainbows and cooling off by nature's finest showers.

Here are some great trails to explore in Germany.

Most popular trails

1

Medium

Mittenwald to Scharnitz Walk via Leutasch Gorge

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany · star 5.0 (5) · 9.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 26 min

2

Medium

Allerheiligen Wasserfälle, Schliffkopf and Schurkopf Loop

Ortenaukreis, Germany · star 5.0 (9) · 12.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 39 min

3

Medium

Feldberg and Feldsee Loop

Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald, Germany · star 5.0 (9) · 12.3 km · Est. 3 hrs 25 min

4

Difficult

Unterer Gaisalpsee and Rubihornsteig Walk via Winterwanderung Zur Gaisalpe

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

5

Easy

Hochuferweg Sassnitz–Königsstuhl - Lohme to Sassnitz

Vorpommern-Rügen, Germany · star 5.0 (7) · 11.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 43 min

6

Easy

Bertasee, Barbarasee and Wedau Regatta Couse Loop

Duisburg, Germany · star 4.0 (3) · 8.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 43 min

7

Medium

Lainbach-Wasserfall, Lautersee and Ferchensee Loop

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany · star 5.0 (8) · 8.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

8

Medium

Breitachklamm Kasse 2 and River Breitach Walk

Oberallgäu, Germany · star 4.0 (3) · 4.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 22 min

9

Easy

Platen un Blomen Loop

Hamburg, Germany · star 4.0 (4) · 5.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 9 min

10

Easy

Blauer See Loop

Harz, Germany · star 4.0 (4) · 1.2 km · Est. 14 min

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Reviews for waterfall hiking trails in Germany

Georgene Collier avatar

Mittenwald to Scharnitz Walk via Leutasch Gorge

CanyonVoyager32 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

avatar

Allerheiligen Wasserfälle, Schliffkopf and Schurkopf Loop

CampsiteCaveexplorer43 · reviewed 8 months ago

star star star star star

avatar

Feldberg and Feldsee Loop

ShorelineAlpinist68 · reviewed 7 months ago

star star star star star

Sen. Freda Daniel avatar

Unterer Gaisalpsee and Rubihornsteig Walk via Winterwanderung Zur Gaisalpe

HavenTracer71 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Cary Quigley avatar

Hochuferweg Sassnitz–Königsstuhl - Lohme to Sassnitz

GraniteTrekmaster79 · reviewed over 1 year 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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