Bodenmais Circular Walk

Starting near the charming town of Regen in Germany, the Bodenmais Circular Walk is a delightful loop trail that spans approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) with an elevation gain of around 400 meters (1,312 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a mix of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards Bodenmais, a well-known spa town in the Bavarian Forest. There are several parking options available near the town center. For those using public transport, take a train to Regen and then a local bus to Bodenmais. The nearest significant landmark to the trailhead is the Bodenmais Tourist Information Center, located at Bahnhofstraße 56, 94249 Bodenmais, Germany.

### Trail Highlights As you embark on the Bodenmais Circular Walk, you'll find yourself immersed in the lush greenery of the Bavarian Forest. The trail is well-marked and maintained, making it suitable for hikers with moderate experience.

#### Nature and Wildlife The trail meanders through dense forests, open meadows, and along serene streams. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The forested sections are particularly enchanting, with towering trees providing ample shade and a sense of tranquility.

#### Historical Significance One of the notable historical landmarks along the trail is the Silberberg Mountain, which has a rich mining history dating back to the 15th century. The mountain is home to the Silberbergwerk, an old silver mine that you can visit. The mine offers guided tours, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region's mining heritage.

### Key Sections of the Trail - Initial Ascent: The first part of the trail involves a gradual ascent through the forest. This section is about 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) long and gains approximately 150 meters (492 feet) in elevation. The path is well-trodden but can be slippery after rain, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended. - Silberberg Mountain: Around the 5-kilometer (3.1 miles) mark, you'll reach the base of Silberberg Mountain. Here, you can take a short detour to visit the Silberbergwerk or continue on the main trail. The climb up Silberberg is steep but rewarding, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

- Midpoint Rest Area: At approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles), you'll find a designated rest area with benches and picnic tables. This is a great spot to take a break, enjoy a packed lunch, and soak in the natural beauty.

- Descent and Return: The final section of the trail involves a descent back towards Bodenmais. This part of the trail is about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) and features a mix of forest paths and open meadows. The descent is gentle, making for a pleasant end to the hike.

### Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool ensures you stay on track and can explore any interesting detours with confidence.

The Bodenmais Circular Walk offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and moderate physical challenge, making it a must-do for hikers visiting the Bavarian Forest region.