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

Breathe in the fresh mountain air, listen to the chirping of birds while cowbells ring in the distance and immerse yourself deeper in the beauty of the Alps with every step.
Hiking in Garmisch-Partenkirchen means experiencing nature with all your senses.
In spring, the meadows bloom, in summer the forest smells of resin and moss, in autumn the peaks glow golden and in winter your footsteps leave quiet tracks in the snow. Here, in the heart of the Bavarian Alps, you will find relaxation, exercise and real moments that will stay with you.

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, travelling at a leisurely pace with the family or looking for a sporting thrill - everything is possible when hiking in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Around 300 kilometres of hiking trails are waiting to be discovered. Easy valley routes, panoramic high-altitude trails or challenging summit tours - every route rewards you with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Highlights for every
Garmisch-Partenkirchen bucket list

Two women are standing on a mountain with their arms raised.

Off to the Zugspitze

Germany's highest mountain, the Zugspitze (2,962 m), is the goal of many experienced mountain hikers and a dream that you should fulfil once in your life. The view from the summit over the Alps is simply unforgettable.
Depending on the route, the ascent takes 8 to 12 hours - a challenge that is rewarded with every metre of view. For the way back, you can take the cable car down to the valley in comfort.
From Garmisch to the Zugspitze
A man and a woman are walking through a forest.

Panoramic mountain Wank

The hike up the Wank is one of the region's classics. Even the way there is an experience: past the pilgrimage church of St. Anton, through green forests and, with a bit of luck, a paraglider will accompany you in the sky.
The motto here: The journey is the reward.
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
A river flows through a rocky gorge.

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
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 turquoise-blue lakes that reflect the peaks. Ideal for a summer hike with a refreshing break 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.

People stand on a bridge over a snow-covered mountain.

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.

A person stands on a hill and looks into the sun.

Equipment hire
at aja

Spontaneously fancy a tour? No problem! At aja Garmisch-Partenkirchen, you can hire the right equipment directly on site and start your hike in a relaxed manner.

Hire 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 also hikes with children?

Yes, family-friendly trails around the Pflegesee lake, to the Riessersee lake or up the Wank are ideal for little hikers. Many tours 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.

A building with trees and mountains in the background.One bedroom with a window and a view of the mountains.A pool with chairs and a building in the background.A table with food and a vase with wheat on it.

Your home near the Eibsee:
ajaGarmisch-Partenkirchen

Whether you're here for the first time or have wanted to come back for a long time - hiking in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is moving. The landscape, the silence, the vastness - all this makes the region one of the most beautiful hiking areas in Germany.


And with the aja Garmisch-Partenkirchen as your starting point, you're right in the centre of it all: quickly up into the mountains in the morning, relaxing in 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)

More experiences & activities
in and around Garmisch-Partenkirchen