Best difficult hiking trails in Germany
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Best difficult hiking trails in Germany

Got your game face on? These difficult trails are designed for hikers who are looking for a serious adventure...

Here are some great trails to explore in Germany.

Most popular trails

1

Difficult

Hinterer Zugwald and Haltepunkt Riffelriß Loop

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany · star 4.0 (9) · 7.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 38 min

2

Difficult

Zugspitze to Alpspitze via Aeussere and Jubilaeumsgrat

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

3

Difficult

Höllentalangerhütte Walk from Hammersbach

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany · star 5.0 (8) · 11.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 51 min

4

Difficult

Bergmatt and Grillplatz Hohfelsen via Ottenhoefen Mummelsee

Ortenaukreis, Germany · star 5.0 (6) · 12.8 km · Est. 3 hrs 53 min

5

Difficult

Panoramablick Schwangau and Queen Mary's Bridge via Neuschwansteinstraße

Ostallgäu, Germany · star 5.0 (9) · 3.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 5 min

6

Difficult

Schrammsteine, Müllerstein and Lehnwächter Loop

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

7

Difficult

Queen Mary's Bridge and Neuschwanstein Castle Loop via Neuschwansteinstraße

Ostallgäu, Germany · star 5.0 (6) · 4.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 21 min

8

Difficult

Waxensteinhütte Walk via Sagenhafter Bergwald

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany · star 5.0 (2) · 6.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 31 min

9

Difficult

River Partnach Loop from Kainzenbad

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany · star 5.0 (7) · 7.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 9 min

10

Difficult

Unterer Gaisalpsee and Rubihornsteig Walk via Winterwanderung Zur Gaisalpe

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

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Reviews for hiking trails in Germany

Tyrell Hermiston avatar

Hinterer Zugwald and Haltepunkt Riffelriß Loop

RangeAdventureguide72 · reviewed 9 months ago

star star star star star

Zoe Pagac avatar

Zugspitze to Alpspitze via Aeussere and Jubilaeumsgrat

HavenSprinter86 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Patti Zulauf avatar

Höllentalangerhütte Walk from Hammersbach

CedarNomad45 · reviewed 6 months ago

star star star star star

Brant Greenholt avatar

Bergmatt and Grillplatz Hohfelsen via Ottenhoefen Mummelsee

TrailmateGraniterover74 · reviewed 7 months ago

star star star star star

Santos Schmidt avatar

Panoramablick Schwangau and Queen Mary's Bridge via Neuschwansteinstraße

PeakHiker70 · reviewed 10 months ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions

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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