Hiking in
Garmisch-
Partenkirchen

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Bucket list hikes

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The most beautiful lakes

A woman and a child hiking in the mountains.

Hiking with children

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Our wish fulfilers

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Equipment hire

Hiking in Garmisch-Partenkirchen:
Experience nature, feel the freedom

Breathe in the fresh mountain air, listen to the birdsong whilst cowbells ring out in the distance, and with every step, immerse yourself deeper in the beauty of the Alps.

Hiking in Garmisch-Partenkirchen means experiencing nature with all your senses.
In spring, the meadows blossom; in summer, the forest smells of resin and moss; in autumn, the peaks glow golden; and in winter, your footsteps leave soft tracks in the snow. Here, in the heart of the Bavarian Alps, you’ll find relaxation, exercise and genuine moments that will stay with you forever.

A man and a woman stand on a mountain during a hike and look down into the valley, stretching their arms in the air.

Out into the
hiking paradise!

Whether you’re aiming high, enjoying a leisurely outing with the family or seeking a sporting thrill – when it comes to hiking in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, anything is possible.

Around 300 kilometres of hiking trails are just waiting to be discovered. From easy valley routes and scenic high-altitude trails to challenging summit hikes – every route rewards you with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Highlights for every
Garmisch-Partenkirchen bucket list

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Off to the Zugspitze

Germany’s highest mountain, the Zugspitze (2,962 m), is the destination of choice for many experienced mountain walkers and a dream that everyone should fulfil at least once in their lifetime. The view from the summit across the Alps is simply unforgettable.
Depending on the route, the ascent takes between 8 and 12 hours – a challenge that is rewarded with ever-better views with every metre climbed. For the return journey, you can take the cable car back down into the valley in comfort.

From Garmisch to the Zugspitze

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Wank Panorama Hill

The hike up the Wank is one of the region’s classic walks. Even the journey there is an experience in itself: past the pilgrimage church of St Anton, through green forests, and, with a bit of luck, you might be accompanied by a paraglider in the sky.
The motto here is: the journey is the destination.
Total duration: approx. 4 hours

A woman and a man hike along a small path through a mountain world.

The Philosopher's Path

In the footsteps of famous thinkers: this is where culture meets panorama! The Philosophers' Trail takes you from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Farchant - always with impressive views and inspiring quotes from famous thinkers along the way.
Perfect for anyone who appreciates nature and tranquillity in equal measure.
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

The Alpspix platform in X shape over a cliff.

Adrenalin kick on the AlpspiX

Hardly any other mountain is as striking as the Alpspitze with its pyramid-shaped north face. The ascent (approx. 3.5 hours) is an experience in itself, but the real thrill awaits at the top: the AlpspiX viewing platform. Two glass walkways rise freely above the rocks. The view through the grid floor down into the Loisach Valley and Höllental - simply spectacular!

Find out more about the AlpspiX viewing platform

Natural wonder Partnach Gorge

A highlight when hiking in Garmisch-Partenkirchen: the Partnachklamm gorge.
When you walk through the narrow tunnels and footbridges, surrounded by thundering waterfalls, pools and rapids, you can feel the full force of nature.
Hike through the gorge and back: approx. 2 hours

More about the Partnachklamm Gorge in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Hiking with children
in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Put on your walking boots and off you go: there are plenty of trails around Garmisch-Partenkirchen where even little mountain enthusiasts can have fun.

To the Kochelberg Alm
Perfect for little explorers who are already confident on their feet. Starting from Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the route takes you past a horse farm and up a gentle slope to the KochelbergAlm. At the top, you’ll find not only a cosy spot to rest, but also various animals by the water and on the alpine pasture.

Kramerplateauweg & Pflegersee
You’ll enjoy a relaxed walk along the Kramerplateauweg. This well-maintained panoramic trail has hardly any inclines and is even easily manageable with a pushchair. Along the way, there are plenty of benches where you can take a break before reaching the Pflegersee.

On to the Werdenfels Castle Ruins
A castle makes hiking all the more exciting: from Pflegersee, a well-maintained forest path leads to the Werdenfels Castle Ruins. Along the roughly four-kilometre-long castle nature trail, 15 information points tell the story of counts, lords of the castle and the history of the old castle.

Bridge over a body of water with trees in the background

Out and about on Bavaria's most beautiful lakes

What goes better with hiking than water? All around Garmisch-Partenkirchen, there are sparkling turquoise-blue lakes in which the mountain peaks are reflected. Ideal for a summer’s hike with a refreshing dip in the cool water. Our favourites:

Geroldsee: Small moorland lake with a magnificent view of the Karwendel and a pleasant 24 °C water temperature in summer.

Eibsee: So beautiful that you forget you're in Bavaria for a moment - crystal clear, turquoise and framed by the Zugspitze.

Kochelsee: A landscape like a painting - it is not without reason that artists such as Franz Marc were mesmerised by it. Perhaps you will find your own inspiration here while hiking and dreaming.

Find out more about the Eibsee

Looking for more inspiration?

At aja Garmisch-Partenkirchen, you are right in the middle of nature and your hosts know every path, every viewpoint and every hut.
Our aja wish fulfilers will be happy to help you plan your tours and accompany you on selected activities.

Whether it's a guided hike to the Partnachklamm gorge with a stop at the Kaiserschmarrnalm, a yoga session with a mountain view or a leisurely evening stroll - you're in good hands with Thomas and Claudia.
The programme changes weekly and can be booked exclusively for aja guests.

On the road with the aja wish fulfilers:

Guided hikes, ski tours and outdoor experiences several times a week

Small groups, personalised support

Exclusive prices for aja guests

Support with individual tour planning

If you prefer travelling alone, you can of course also get tips for the most beautiful routes around Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

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Equipment hire
at aja

Fancy going for a walk on the spur of the moment? No problem! At aja Garmisch-Partenkirchen, you can hire the right kit on the spot and set off on your walk with peace of mind.

Rental prices per day:

Outdoor rucksack: €6

Hiking poles: 6 €

Zipflbob Racer: 6 €

Children's rucksack: 15 €

Snowshoes with poles: 15 €

Longer loan periods are available on request. The loan period depends on the availability of the individual items.

FAQ

When is the best time to go hiking in Garmisch-Partenkirchen?

The main season for hiking is from May to October. This is when most of the trails are free of snow and the temperatures are pleasant. In winter, snowshoe hikes, winter trails and guided tours through the snow-covered mountains beckon.

Which hikes are suitable for beginners?

Easy tours such as the Philosophenweg, the Partnachklamm gorge or the circular route around the Eibsee lake are perfect for beginners. They offer short walking times, little ascent and fantastic views.

Are there any walks suitable for children?

Yes! Family-friendly trails around the Pflegersee, to the Kochelberg Alm or to the ruins of Werdenfels Castle are ideal for little hikers. Many of these walks can also be combined with a ride on the mountain railway.

Where can you combine hiking and swimming in Garmisch-Partenkirchen?

The Eibsee and Geroldsee lakes are perfect for a combination of hiking and swimming. After the tour, you can cool off in the clear mountain water - a real summer highlight.

Is it possible to book guided hikes in Garmisch-Partenkirchen?

Yes, the aja Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers regular guided hikes with the wish fulfilers. The tours are varied, lead to the most beautiful viewpoints in the region and are ideal for discovering Garmisch-Partenkirchen with locals.

Your home near the Eibsee:
aja Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Whether it’s your first time here or you’ve been meaning to come back for ages – hiking in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a truly moving experience. The landscape, the tranquillity, the vastness – all of this makes the region one of the most beautiful hiking areas in Germany.

And with the aja Garmisch-Partenkirchen as your base, you’ll be right in the heart of it all: off into the mountains in the morning, relaxing by the pool in the evening.

Perfect starting point for activities

Room with mountain view & modern design

Heated outdoor pool with panoramic views

Fitness area & aja SPA with NIVEA shop

E-mountain bike hire

Bar & terrace with a view of the Alps

GreenSign certified (Level 4)

Book now More about the aja Garmisch