Großer Illing and Wagbichl via Holzbohlenweg

Starting near the picturesque town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, the Großer Illing and Wagbichl via Holzbohlenweg trail offers a captivating 12 km (7.5 miles) loop with an elevation gain of approximately 900 meters (2,950 feet). This medium-difficulty hike is perfect for those looking to explore the Bavarian Alps' natural beauty and historical richness.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards Garmisch-Partenkirchen and park near the Wankbahn Talstation, a well-known cable car station. For those using public transport, take a train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen Bahnhof and then a local bus to the Wankbahn Talstation. The trailhead is conveniently located near this landmark.

### Trail Overview The trail begins with a gentle ascent through lush forests, offering a serene start to your hike. As you progress, the path becomes steeper, leading you through a series of switchbacks. The initial 3 km (1.9 miles) will see you gaining around 300 meters (985 feet) in elevation, providing a good warm-up for the more challenging sections ahead.

### Key Landmarks and Sections #### Holzbohlenweg Around the 4 km (2.5 miles) mark, you'll encounter the Holzbohlenweg, a wooden plank path that meanders through a beautiful alpine meadow. This section is relatively flat and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as chamois and marmots, which are often seen in this area.

#### Großer Illing Summit Continuing on, the trail becomes more rugged as you approach the Großer Illing summit. The next 2 km (1.2 miles) involve a steep climb, gaining approximately 400 meters (1,310 feet) in elevation. The summit, at around 1,800 meters (5,905 feet) above sea level, offers panoramic views of the Bavarian Alps and the valleys below. This is a great spot to take a break and enjoy the scenery.

#### Wagbichl After descending from Großer Illing, the trail leads you to Wagbichl, a picturesque alpine pasture. This section is relatively easier, with gentle slopes and well-marked paths. The area is rich in flora, especially during the spring and summer months when wildflowers are in full bloom.

### Historical Significance The region around Garmisch-Partenkirchen has a rich history, dating back to Roman times. The town itself was a significant trading post and has retained much of its historical charm. As you hike, you'll pass by old farmhouses and traditional Bavarian architecture, offering a glimpse into the area's cultural heritage.

### Navigation and Safety Given the trail's varying terrain, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so always be prepared with appropriate gear.

### Wildlife and Flora The trail is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, foxes, and various bird species. The flora is equally impressive, with alpine meadows, dense forests, and a variety of wildflowers. Be respectful of the natural environment and stick to marked paths to minimize your impact.

### Final Descent and Return The final 3 km (1.9 miles) of the trail involve a gradual descent back to the trailhead. This section is less strenuous, allowing you to enjoy the final leg of your hike. As you approach the end, you'll pass through more forested areas before arriving back at the Wankbahn Talstation.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, challenging terrain, and historical significance, making it a must-do for any hiking enthusiast visiting the Bavarian Alps.