The best hikes in Germany offer something for everyone – from easy, family-friendly walks to more challenging treks for experienced hikers. And with such varied and beautiful scenery on offer, it’s no wonder that hiking is one of the most popular activities in the country.
Whether you’re looking to explore the dramatic peaks of the Bavarian Alps, stroll through fragrant pine forests or hike along the stunning coastline, you’ll find plenty of amazing routes to choose from. To help you choose the perfect hike for your next adventure, we’ve put together a list of the 10 best hikes in Germany.
1. Zugspitze
The Zugspitze is the tallest mountain in Germany, and it offers some of the best hiking in the country. The summit can be reached by a number of different trails, each of which provides stunning views of the surrounding Alps. On a clear day, hikers can even see all the way to Italy and Austria from the top of the Zugspitze.
The mountain is also home to a number of glaciers, and hikes through these icy landscapes are a truly unforgettable experience. At 2,962 m (9,718 ft), the Zugspitze is the highest mountain in Germany. This challenging hike takes you to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding valleys, mountains, and lakes.
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
2. Eagle’s Nest Trail
The Eagle’s Nest Trail is one of the best hikes in Germany. The trail takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the country, including forests, meadows, and mountain peaks. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, making it a great choice for hikers of all levels of experience.
Located in Berchtesgaden National Park, this easy trail takes you to the site of Hitler’s former retreat, the Eagle’s Nest. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The views from the top of the Eagle’s Nest are truly breathtaking, and the experience is one that you will never forget.
Address: Kehlsteinhaus, 83471 Berchtesgaden, Germany
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
3. Neuschwanstein Castle Trail
The Neuschwanstein Castle Trail is one of the best hikes in Germany. The trail takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the country, past waterfalls, mountain peaks, and of course, the fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it a great option for hikers of all levels.
Along the way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take in the breathtaking views and snap some photos. The Neuschwanstein Castle Trail is a must-do for any hiker visiting Germany.
Address: Neuschwansteinstraße 20, 87645 Schwangau, Germany
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
4. Rheinsteig
The Rheinsteig is one of the best hikes in Germany. The 320-kilometer (200-mile) trail runs along the Rhine River from Wiesbaden to Bonn. The route takes hikers through picturesque villages, vineyards, and forests. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the views.
The Rheinsteig is a popular hike, so it’s important to start early in the day to avoid crowds. The best time to hike the Rheinsteig is from April to October. During these months, the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. However, hikers should be prepared for some cold weather and rain. The Rheinsteig is a challenging hike, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding experience.
5. Black Forest Trail
The Black Forest Trail is one of the best hikes in Germany. The trail is 340 kilometers long and takes about two weeks to complete. It starts in the town of Feldberg and ends in Baden-Baden.
Along the way, hikers will enjoy stunning views of the Black Forest, as well as its many lakes and rivers. The trail is well marked and there are plenty of places to rest and refuel. There are also several shelters along the way, in case of bad weather. The Black Forest Trail is a great way to see some of the best that Germany has to offer.
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
6. Upper Danube Valley Trail
The Upper Danube Valley Trail is one of the best hikes in Germany. Stretching for nearly 200 miles from Passau to Ingolstadt, the trail follows the river through some of the most scenic countrysides in the country. Along the way, hikers will pass through forests, meadows, and vineyards, and will have the opportunity to stop at small towns and villages to explore local history and culture.
The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it a great option for both experienced hikers and beginners. With so much to see and do, the Upper Danube Valley Trail is an essential part of any hike in Germany.
Address: Wolterstraße 16, 88631 Beuron, Germany
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
7. Moselle Valley Trail
The Moselle Valley Trail is one of the best hikes in Germany. Stretching for over 500 kilometers, the trail runs along the banks of the Moselle River from its source in the Eifel Mountains to the city of Koblenz. Along the way, hikers are treated to stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside.
The trail is well-marked and relatively flat, making it ideal for hikers of all levels of experience. In addition, there are numerous towns and villages along the route, providing plenty of opportunities for rest and resupply. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, the Moselle Valley Trail is sure to exceed your expectations.
8. Elbe River Trail
Germany is a hiker’s paradise, offering an incredible array of trails to explore. From the rugged mountains of the south to the flat plains of the north, there is something for everyone. And while there are many great hikes to choose from, one of the best is the Elbe River Trail.
Stretching for nearly 500 miles, the Elbe River Trail follows the course of the river from its source in the mountains of the Czech Republic all the way to the Baltic Sea. Along the way, hikers are treated to stunning views of gorges and valleys, as well as a variety of wildlife.
The trail is also a popular destination for cyclists and birdwatchers, making it one of the most popular outdoor recreational areas in Germany. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that the Elbe River Trail is one of the best hikes in Germany.
9. Baltic Sea Coast Trail
The Baltic Sea Coast Trail is one of the best hikes in Germany. It stretches along the coast of the Baltic Sea from the island of Rügen to the port city of Lübeck. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it a great option for both experienced hikers and newcomers to the sport.
Along the way, hikers will be treated to stunning views of the ocean, as well as a chance to explore a number of historic sites. The trail is also a great way to experience the unique ecosystem of the Baltic Sea coast, which is home to a large number of migrating birds. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, the Baltic Sea Coast Trail is sure to please.
10. Harz National Park
Found in the north of Germany, Harz National Park is a paradise for hikers. The park is home to towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests, making it the perfect place to explore on foot. There are numerous trails to choose from, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes.
One of the best-known trails is the Brockenbahn, which takes hikers to the summit of the park’s highest peak. The trail is strenuous, but the views from the top are more than worth the effort.
For those looking for a more relaxed hike, the lakeside trail around Lake Oberuckersee is a beautiful and peaceful option. No matter what trail you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable hiking experience in Harz National Park.
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
In Conclusion
With so many amazing hiking trails to choose from, it’s no wonder that Germany is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a challenging hike, you’ll find plenty of routes to suit your needs. So what are you waiting for? Grab your hiking boots and explore the great outdoors!
