The Best Summer Hikes in Berchtesgaden
Berchtesgaden is an amazing spot in the Bavarian Alps, full of beautiful trails for all kinds of hikers. Whether you want a quick walk or a pretty long trek, this area has it. Think waterfalls, mountain views, forests, and peaceful valleys—all within a short drive from each other. If you’re planning a trip and love being outdoors, these are some of the best summer hikes you can find in Berchtesgaden.
Röthbachfall Hike: See Germany’s Tallest Waterfall
Start with the Röthbachfall hike. To reach it, you’ll have to take the boat across Königssee and debark at “Salet”. From there, just follow the signs towards Röthbachfall. This hike also leads you around Obersee with it’s iconic fishing hut and offers a 10 km round-trip if you do the full walk (about 3-4 hours). Expect a moderate terrain that takes you through forests and along mountain streams, leading to the tallest waterfall in Germany at 470 meters. You might’ve expected it, but this hike is pretty popular, so going early helps avoid crowds.
Hintersee and Zauberwald: A Fairy Tale Forest Walk
Next, go see Hintersee, about 10 km north of Berchtesgaden. It’s a small, crystal-clear lake surrounded by a small village, mountains and forest. The trail around Hintersee is flat and easy – around 5 km – and takes about an hour. Nearby, the Zauberwald (“Magic Forest”) is a picturesque forest close to the lake with tall trees, mossy rocks, and unique shapes. It’s perfect for a relaxed walk with plenty of photo chances. Generally, the entire area is accessible and great for families or anyone looking for a calm stroll.
Jenner Hikes: Viewpoints from Bavaria’s Most Famous Mountain
The Jenner cable car takes you up to about 1,620 meters, and from there, you can hike along various trails. One popular route is the Jenner Panorama Trail, which is around 4 km long and takes about 2 hours. It’s a moderate hike with stunning views of Königssee and the surrounding mountains. You can include a few shorter loops or go further for more elevation. The trail is well-marked, but some sections are steep – good for anyone comfortable with a moderate challenge.
Tip.: You can book your tickets for the Jenenr cable car here.
Klausbachtal Hike: Quiet Valley and Waterfalls
Klausbachtal is a peaceful valley about 15 km from Berchtesgaden town and known for it’s eagle population. The hike from the parking lot to the Alpengasthaus Hirschbichl (a tavern) is about 14 km round-trip (roughly 3 hours). It’s moderate, with some uphill sections, but the scenery makes it worth it. You’ll see beautiful meadows, small waterfalls, and pass the Klausbachtal suspension bridge. If you’re very lucky, you might hear the cry of an eagle or even spot them in the sky. This hike is perfect if you want a quieter, nature-filled walk away from the crowds.
Wimbachklamm and Wimbachtal: Wild Water and Mountain Views
Wimbachklamm is a gorge about 5 km from Berchtesgaden. The hike through the gorge is only a few hundred metres and after passing the gorge, you can continue to Berggaststätte Wimbachschloss, where they serve excellent local food. It’s a fairly easy hike and ideal for a morning or afternoon adventure – plan about 1-2 hours, plus the time you spend at the tavern. After exploring the gorge and enjoying the local cuisine, you can keep walking towards Wimbachgrieshütte for more views, about 4 km further. The whole walk is manageable and offers incredible views of waterfalls, steep cliffs, and the mountain panorama.
Final Thoughts: Your Summer in Berchtesgaden
All these hikes show different sides of Berchtesgaden – mountains, waterfalls, forests, and peaceful valleys. They range from easy walks to moderate climbs, so you can pick what suits your pace. If you’re into outdoor adventures, this area is a gem for summer hiking. So, pack your boots, bring plenty of water, and enjoy the best summer hikes in Berchtesgaden!
If you are interested in destinations with stunning nature and hikes for every experience level, check out Madeira in a Week: Your Perfect 7-Day First-Timer’s Itinerary!
