zugspitze wander tour

Sicher auf die Zugspitze - alle Touren

Die Zugspitze, Deutschlands höchster Berg (2962 m), lockt jedes Jahr tausende Bergbegeisterte an. Gut informiert und vorbereitet seid ihr sicherer unterwegs.

Der höchste Berg Deutschlands

Die Zugspitze ist mit 2962 Metern der höchste Berg Deutschlands. Sie liegt südwestlich von Garmisch-Partenkirchen im Wettersteingebirge und über ihrem Gipfel verläuft die Grenze zwischen Deutschland und Österreich. Erstmals bestiegen wurde die Zugspitze im Jahr 1820 . Nicht immer sind die Besucher*innen richtig vorbereitet und manche verhalten sich falsch. Dies führt dazu, dass es immer wieder zu Notlagen und Unfällen mit schwierigen Bergrettungseinsätzen kommt.

Drei wichtige Aussagen:

Es ist zwar voll an der Zugspitze, aber nur an bestimmten Tagen , zu bestimmten Zeiten und an bestimmten Stellen!

Der Berg wird von zahlreichen Bergsteiger*innen stark unterschätzt !

Eine gründliche Tourenplanung senkt das Risiko!

Deshalb geben der Deutsche Alpenverein, die Bergwacht Bayern und der Verband der deutschen Berg- und Skiführer hier wichtige Informationen über die Hauptrouten und vorbeugende Sicherheitsmaßnahmen.

Die schönsten Touren an der Zugspitze:

Antworten auf 5 häufige fragen, wandertouren rund um die zugspitze.

Der höchste Berg Deutschlands ist für viele ein Traumziel. Doch im Zugspitzgebiet gibt es noch viele andere lohnende Touren und (Gipfel-)Ziele.

Karte: Routen auf die Zugspitze

Route A: Reintal

Route B: Ehrwalder Alm und Gatterl

Route C: Österreichisches Schneekar

Route D: Höllental

Route E: Jubiläumsgrat

Route A: Reintal

Der einfachste, aber weiteste Weg auf die Zugspitze ist der durch das Reintal. Rund 21 Kilometer und 2300 Höhenmeter sind zu überwinden. Bis auf den Schlussanstieg bietet es kaum technische Schwierigkeiten. Dennoch darf die Route nicht unterschätzt werden, da die Entfernung zum nächsten Ort sehr weit ist und man in großer Abgeschiedenheit unterwegs ist.

Tourenbeschreibung

Ausgangspunkt ist das Skistadion (730 m) von Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Nach der Partnachklamm führen Forststraßen und Karrenwege zur Bockhütte (1052 m). Danach steigt der einfache Bergweg bis zur Reintalangerhütte (1370 m) etwas an. Von der Hütte geht es durchs Brunntal steiler bergan zur Knorrhütte (2057 m). Von ihr gelangt man auf das weitläufige Zugspitzplatt. Bei der Station Sonn-Alpin (2576 m) steigt man in eine steile Schutt- und Schrofenflanke ein und gelangt über mittelschwere Bergwege - teils versichert - zum Zugspitzgipfel.

Besonderheiten:

Vorsicht bei Nebel auf dem Zugspitzplatt

Wer bei Sonn-Alpin erschöpft ist, sollte die Bahn zum Gipfel nehmen

Achtung vor Schneefeldern in der Gipfelflanke

Route B: Ehrwalder Alm und Gatterl

Von Ehrwald führt die Gatterlroute auf das Zugspitzplatt zur Knorrhütte und von dort gemeinsam mit der Reintalroute zum Gipfel. Von der Talstation der Ehrwalder Almbahn (1108 m) flach aufwärts durch das Skigebiet zur Ehrwalder Alm (1502 m), Pestkapelle (1617 m) und Hochfeldernalm (1732 m). Oben angekommen hat man 14 Kilometer und 2100 Höhenmeter in den Beinen.

Weiter auf dem Max-Klotz-Steig zum Joch „Am Brand“ (2120 m) und leicht fallend zum Feldernjöchl (2041 m). Nun steil ansteigend auf versichertem Steig zum „Gatterl“ (2024 m). Über den ebenen „Plattsteig“ zur Knorrhütte. Von dort über das Zugspitzplatt zu Sonnalpin (2576 m) und auf versichertem Steig auf den Zugspitzgipfel.

Achtung vor Schneefeldern im Bereich „Gatterl“ und der Gipfelflanke

Verkürzbar mit der Ehrwalder Almbahn

Route C: Österreichisches Schneekar und Stopselzieher

Der kürzeste Aufstieg zum Gipfel führt vom Eibsee (950 m) oder Obermoos (1228 m) über das Österreichische Schneekar. Über beide Wege steigt man zunächst steil zur Wiener-Neustädter-Hütte (2209 m) hinauf und durchquert anschließend das Österreichische Schneekar. Je nach Startpunkt braucht man Kondition für acht Kilometer und 2015 Höhenmeter bzw. fünf Kilometer und 1735 Höhenmeter .

Am Ende des Schneekars beginnt ein einfacher Klettersteig, der durch die gesamte Nordwestflanke verläuft. Am Anfang wird der „Stopselzieher“, eine natürliche Auswaschungshöhle, durchstiegen. Danach geht es zum Südwestgrat hinauf und über ihn zum höchsten Punkt.

Steinschlaggefahr im „Stopselzieher“ durch Vorausgehende

In der Gipfelwand lange Altschnee

Anstieg mit wenig Sonneneinstrahlung

Route D: Höllental

Der Anstieg über das Höllental ist mit neun Kilometern und 2200 Höhenmetern der beliebteste und abwechslungsreichste Anstieg auf die Zugspitze. In Hammersbach (758 m) beginnt der Anstieg. Der Weg durch die Höllentalklamm ( alpenverein-gapa.de ) ist spektakulär. Auf dem Stangensteig kann die Klamm auch umgangen werden.

Nach der Klamm trifft man auf die Höllentalangerhütte (1381 m), danach geht es über den Höllentalanger bis zum ersten Steilaufschwung an der „Leiter“. Oberhalb davon quert man das „Brett“ mit Stahlstiften in einer Felswand. Über den „Grünen Buckel“ erreicht man den Höllentalferner. Über den Sommer 2022 sind die Bedingungen am Gletscher aufgrund der warmen Temperaturen und der weiteren Ausaperung schwieriger geworden (viele steile Blankeis-Stellen sowie offene Gletscherspalten, die überquert werden müssen). Daher sollte eine komplette Gletscherausrüstung mitgeführt werden: Steigeisen, Eispickel, Seil und Rettungsmaterial (Eisschrauben, …). Schwierigkeiten kann die Randkluft bereiten, da sich das Eis durch Abschmelzung immer weiter vom Fels entfernt. Nach ihr führt ein mittelschwerer Klettersteig auf den Gipfel. Aktuelle Infos zur Route durch das Höllental gibt es auf der Seite des DAV München & Oberland .

Klettersteigset, Gurt und Helm sowie Gletscherausrüstung

Auf dem Gletscher Steigeisen anziehen

Abseits der Trasse am Gletscher Spaltensturzgefahr

Vorsicht vor Staus an der Randkluft! Frühzeitig aufbrechen

Route E: Jubiläumsgrat

Eine der bekanntesten und längsten Gratrouten der Ostalpen ist der Jubiläumsgrat . Die Route endet an der Grießkarscharte (2463 m). Von dort steigt man entweder über das Matheisenkar ins Höllental ab oder geht weiter zur Alpspitze (2628 m) und steigt über die Nordwandferrata zur Bergstation der Alpspitzbahn am Osterfelderkopf (2050 m) ab.

Die Tour ist kein Klettersteig, es müssen viele unversicherte Passagen im II. bis III. Schwierigkeitsgrad bewältigt werden.

Empfehlenswert ist der Start von der Zugspitze nach einer Nacht im Münchner Haus oder Auffahrt mit der ersten Seilbahn.

Die konditionellen Anforderungen sind aufgrund der Länge des Grates sehr hoch.

In der Mitte des Jubiläumsgrates, zwischen Mittlerer und Äußerer Höllentalspitze, befindet sich das Jubiläumsgrathütterl, eine unbewirtschaftete, rote Biwakschachtel, die nur in Notfällen zur Übernachtung benutzt werden darf.

Die Tour kann vorzeitig über den Brunntalgrat-Steig abgebrochen werden. Dieser führt nach der Inneren Höllentalspitze südwärts zur Knorrhütte (2052m) hinab. Er ist leicht zu verfehlen und anspruchsvoll (I - II).

Im Sommer oft hohes Gewitterrisiko.

Kein Wasser zwischen Zugspitze und Alpspitze.

So geht's über den Jubiläumsgrat:

Ein grat zum jubeln, klassiker: jubiläumsgrat.

Der Jubiläumsgrat zwischen Zugspitze und Alpspitze wird oft begangen - doch viele überschätzen sich. Infos zu den Anforderungen und Schlüsselstellen.

Tourenplanung

Eure Zugspitz-Tour ist gut geplant, wenn ihr diese Fragen mit „Ja“ beantworten könnt:

Der Routenverlauf ist mir klar und ich habe ihn mir eingeprägt.

Ich kenne die Schlüsselstellen und habe eine gute Taktik für diese.

Ich habe Alternativen, falls meine Vorstellung nicht der Realität entspricht.

Die aktuellen Verhältnisse und das Wetter erlauben diese Tour.

Die Gruppenhierarchie ist klar geregelt. Alle Gruppenmitglieder sind informiert, gesund und fit.

Ich habe Zeit für mehrere Pausen einkalkuliert.

Meine Rückkehr wird rechtzeitig sein, so dass Reservezeit vor Einbruch der Dunkelheit bleibt. Die Fahrzeiten der Seilbahnen sind mir bekannt.

Ich habe die passende Ausrüstung mit.

Ich habe Angehörige oder Hüttenwirtsleute informiert. (Sollten sich eure Pläne während der Tour ändern, müsst ihr sicherstel­len, dass die betreffende Person davon erfährt und keine unnötige Suchaktion auslöst.)

Flyer: Die Zugspitze - Sicher auf den höchsten Bergs Deutschlands

Die wichtigsten Informationen zu den Aufstiegen, Tipps zu Tourenplanung und Risikomanagement und zu Hütten, Sektionen, Bergführer*innen und Bergrettung sind im Flyer "Sicher auf die Zugspitze" zusammengefasst. Hinweis: Der Flyer ersetzt nicht die Mitnahme von Karte, Führer und weiterem Material.

Der Flyer kann gegen Einsendung eines frankierten und adressierten Rückumschlags im Format DIN 5 lang beim DAV (Deutscher Alpenverein, Anni-Albers-Straße 7, D-80807 München) bestellt werden.

Alpenvereinswetterbericht

alpenverein.de/DAV-Services/Bergwetter

Tel.: 0049/(0)89/29 50 70, tägliche Aktualisierung gegen 16.00 Uhr

Verhältnisse:  alpenvereinaktiv.com

Seilbahnen:  zugspitze.de  und  zugspitze.at

DAV AV-Karte BY 8 Wettersteingebirge, Zugspitze, 1:25.000

DAV Alpenvereinskarte Blatt 4/2 Wetterstein- und Mieminger Gebirge Mitte, 1 : 25 000

DAV Alpenvereinskarte 4/3 Wetterstein- und Mieminger Gebirge Ost 1 : 25 00

Wettersteingebirge, Stefan Beulke, Rother Verlag, 1996

Bayerns Berge, Georg Hohenester/Stefan Winter, Rother Verlag, 2009

Themen dieses Artikels

• Alle Touren
• Hüttentrekking
• Tourenempfehlungen
• Rother Alpenvereinsführer
• Tourenplaner
• Gemeinsame Touren
• Aktuelle Bedingungen
• Hinweise und Sperrungen
• Lawinenlage
• Mit Kindern auf Hütten
• Mit Öffis zum Berg
• Service für Mitglieder und Sektionen
• Das Abo-Modell auf alpenvereinaktiv.com
• Monats- und Jahresgutscheine
• Hilfe-Seite
• Video Tutorials

Die Zugspitztour - Eine wunderschöne Drei-Tages-Tour auf den höchsten Gipfel Deutschlands - ohne Klettersteig und Co.

Wie kann ich diese Tour buchen

Viele verbinden mit dem Aufstieg auf die Zugspitze die Begriffe Gletscher, Klettersteig, Unmöglich.

Dabei gibt es eine vergleichsweise einfache, aber dennoch landschaftlich wie alpinistisch sehr reizvolle Variante, den höchsten Gipfel Deutschlands zu Fuß zu erklimmen.

Die hier von mir vorgestellte "Zugspitztour" ist ein Tourentipp für all jene, die den höchsten Gipfel Deutschlands über seine "homöopathische Seite"  erleben wollen - eben ohne Klettersteige oder Gletscherquerungen.

Mit "Bergauf-Bergab" unterwegs auf dieser Tour: hier geht es  zur Mediathek des Bayerischen Rundfunks .

Autorentipp

Speziell während der Wochenenden in den bayrischen Sommerferien sind die Hütten rings um die Zugspitze sehr stark frequentiert. Wenn möglich planen sie ihre Tour unter der Woche - da ist es deutlich ruhiger und der Genussfaktor damit noch höher.

Einkehrmöglichkeiten

Sicherheitshinweise.

Speziell der Gipfelhang mit seinen Seilversicherungen erfordert am zweiten Tag die volle Aufmerksamkeit. Damit sie die Tour in all ihren Facetten genießen können, ist in ersten Linie eine solide Kondition erforderlich. Machen sie also ein paar kleinere (oder größere)  Bergtouren im Frühsommer, bevor sich sich an diese Königsetappe wagen.

Bis Mitte/Ende Juni kann noch viel Schnee im Gipfelhang liegen, der einen Aufstieg erschweren oder sogar unmöglich machen kann,. Informeren sie sich vorab bei den Hüttenwirten oder auf der Homepage von Reintalanger- oder Knorrhütte über die aktuellen Verhältnisse.

Wer am zweiten Tag mit der Bergbahn ins Tal abfahren möchte, bitte beachten: Die letzte Bergbahn fährt am Zugspitzgipfel bereits um 16:45 Uhr ins Tal. Wer die verpasst, muss oben bleiben! Bitte die Tour entsprechend planen bzw. einteilen.

Weitere Infos und Links

Informationen rund um die Zugspitztour sowie die aktuellen verhältnisse finden sie auch auf

www.zugspitztour.de sowie auf den Seiten www.reintalangerhuette.de und www.knorrhuette.de

Viel Vergnügen!

Wegbeschreibung

Durch die Partnachklamm und über das Reintal führt uns der Weg am ersten Tag auf die Reintalangerhütte, unser Quartier für die erste Nacht. Am zweiten Tag steigen wir über die Knorrhütte zunächst auf nach Sonnalpin, bevor wir uns den Gipfelhang mit seinen seilversicherten Passagen "zur Brust nehmen". Trunken ob der phantastischen Aussicht und gut gestärkt von einer Brotzeit am Münchner Haus steigen wir wieder ab zur Knorrhütte und beziehen dort unser wohlverdientes Quartier für die zweite Nacht - hier wird einfach mehr Platz und Komfort geboten als am Gipfel.

Am dritten Tag geht es über das "Gatterl" hinüber nach Tirol und dann stetig abwärts hinunter nach Ehrwald. Bus und Bahn bringen und wieder an jeden beliebigen Ausgangsort zurück und lassen uns  die Tour in tiefen Träumen Revue passieren.

Öffentliche Verkehrsmittel

mit Bahn und Bus erreichbar

Von München aus fährt stündlich ein Zug zum Garmischer Bahnhof. Besonders günstig für Anreisende aus dem S-Bahn-Netz München ist hier das Regio-Ticket-Werdenfels, da hier bereits der Fahrpreis für die S-Bahnnen zum Hauptbahnhof München enthalten ist.

Ansonsten dass bewährte Bayern-Ticket wählen - der Werdenfelsexpress bringt euch in 82 Minuten nach GAP.

Vom Bahnhof GAP den Orstbus 1 oder 2 Richtung "Klinikum" nehmen und an der Haltestelle "Skistadion" aussteigen.

Koordinaten

Buchempfehlungen des autors.

• Rother Gebietsführer "Wetterstein mit Mieminger Kette" • "Die 'Münchner' Berghütten"; Eigenverlag Sektionen München und Oberland • Kostenloses Faltblatt "Bergerlebnis Wetterstein", zum download unter davplus.de • Kostenloses Faltblatt "Zugspitztour"; zum download unter davplus.de/zugspitztour • Kostenloses Faltblatt "Sicher auf den höchsten Berg Deutschlands"; zum download unter davplus.de

Kartenempfehlungen des Autors

Alpenvereinskarte BY 8 "Wettersteingebirge, Zugspitze",

Buchtipps für die Region

Kartentipps für die region.

Die "Zugspitztour" führt uns auf eine Höhenlage von knapp 3.000 Meter - dementsprechend ist auf eine geeignete Ausrüstung zu achten (Wärme- und Nässeschutz; gutes, festes Schuhwerk) und die Wetterentwicklung gut im Auge zu behalten.

Eine Klettersteigausrüstung oder dergleichen ist für diese Tour nicht erforderlich.

Ähnliche Touren in der Umgebung

• Hüttengaudi Tour 2018
• Garmisch - Zugspitze - Karwendel Höhenweg
• Einmal Reintalangerhütte und zurück!
• Alpenquerung L1 nach Hans Losse
• Alpenquerung L1 nach Hans Losse mit Variationen

Fragen & Antworten

Bewertungen

Fotos von anderen

Wetter am startpunkt der tour.

• Bilder einblenden Bilder ausblenden

Der erste Tag der Zugspitztour führt uns gemütlich von Garmisch-Partenkirchen durch die Partnachklamm bergauf bzw. taleinwärts. Der Weg folgt stets ...

Von der Reintalangerhütte zum Zugspitzgipfel - ein sehr abwechslungsreiche, aber auch konditionell anspruchsvolle Tour, die ein einzigartiges ...

Von der Knorrhütte über das Gatterl nach Ehrwald - eine landschaftlich wunderschöne und vielseitige Variante für den Abstieg von der Zugspitze.

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The Zugspitze tour - A wonderful three-day tour to the highest peak in Germany - without via ferrata and co.

Wie kann ich diese Tour buchen

Many people associate the ascent of the Zugspitze with the terms glacier, via ferrata and impossible.

However, there is a comparatively easy, yet scenically and alpinistically very attractive way to climb Germany's highest peak on foot.

The "Zugspitze tour" I present here is a tour tip for all those who want to experience the "homeopathic side" of Germany's highest peak - without via ferratas or glacier crossings.

Travelling with "Bergauf-Bergab" on this tour: click here to go to the Bavarian Broadcasting media library .

Author’s recommendation

Especially during the weekends in the Bavarian summer holidays, the huts around the Zugspitze are very busy. If possible, plan your tour during the week - it's much quieter then and the enjoyment factor is even higher.

Track types

Safety information.

The summit slope in particular, with its rope safety features, requires your full attention on the second day. In order to enjoy the tour in all its facets, you need to be in good physical condition first and foremost. So do a few smaller (or larger) mountain tours in early summer before attempting this royal stage.

Until the middle/end of June there can still be a lot of snow on the summit slope, which can make an ascent difficult or even impossible. Find out about the current conditions in advance from the hut hosts or on the Reintalanger or Knorrhütte websites.

If you would like to take the mountain railway down to the valley on the second day, please note: The last cable car at the Zugspitz summit leaves for the valley at 16:45. If you miss it, you have to stay up there! Please plan and organise your tour accordingly.

Tips and suggestions

Information about the Zugspitze tour and the current conditions can also be found at

www.zugspitztour.de and on the pages www.reintalangerhuette.de and www.knorrhuette.de

Destination

Turn-by-turn directions.

On the first day, the route leads us through the Partnachklamm gorge and across the Reintal valley to the Reintalangerhütte, our accommodation for the first night. On the second day, we climb up to Sonnalpin via the Knorrhütte before tackling the summit slope with its rope-secured passages. Drunk on the fantastic view and well fortified by a snack at the Münchner Haus, we descend again to the Knorrhütte and take up our well-earned accommodation there for the second night - there is simply more space and comfort here than at the summit.

On the third day, we cross over the "Gatterl" into Tyrol and then descend steadily to Ehrwald. Bus and train take us back to any starting point and let us reminisce about the tour in deep dreams.

Public transport

Public-transport-friendly

There is an hourly train from Munich to Garmisch station. The Regio-Ticket-Werdenfels is particularly good value for those travelling from the Munich S-Bahn network, as it already includes the fare for the S-Bahn to Munich main station.

Otherwise, choose the tried and tested Bayern-Ticket - the Werdenfelsexpress will take you to GAP in 82 minutes.

From GAP station, take the local bus 1 or 2 in the direction of "Klinikum" and get off at the "Skistadion" stop.

Coordinates

Book recommendation by the author.

- Rother area guide "Wetterstein mit Mieminger Kette" - "Die 'Münchner' Berghütten"; published by Sektionen München und Oberland - Free leaflet "Bergerlebnis Wetterstein", for download at davplus.de - Free leaflet "Zugspitztour"; for download at davplus.de/zugspitztour - Free leaflet "Sicher auf den höchsten Berg Deutschlands"; for download at davplus.de

Author’s map recommendations

Alpine Club map BY 8 "Wettersteingebirge, Zugspitze",

Book recommendations for this region:

Recommended maps for this region:.

The "Zugspitze Tour" takes us to an altitude of just under 3,000 metres - so make sure you have suitable equipment (thermal and moisture protection; good, sturdy footwear) and keep a close eye on the weather.

Via ferrata equipment or similar is not required for this tour.

Localization

Similar routes nearby

• Wettersteingebirge: Dreitorgarterl Zugspitze: Tour of the twin towns 2011
• Long-Distance Hiking from Hintergraseck to Bockhütte and back.
• Round tour through the Wetterstein - from Hammersbach via the Zugspitze to Ehrwald
• Small Wetterstein crossing - from Leutasch to Kreuzeck:

Questions and answers

Ratings and reviews

Photos from others

Weather at the route's trailhead.

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The first day of the Zugspitze tour takes us at a leisurely pace from Garmisch-Partenkirchen uphill through the Partnachklamm gorge and into the ...

From the Reintalangerhütte to the Zugspitz summit - a very varied, but also physically demanding tour that promises a unique mountain experience ...

From the Knorrhütte via the Gatterl to Ehrwald - a scenic and varied option for the descent from the Zugspitze.

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Excursions and leisure tips for the region

Auf die Zugspitze wandern: Vier Wege auf Deutschlands höchsten Berg

Zu Tausenden strömen die Touristen auf die Zugspitze hoch über dem Loisachtal. Die Bergbahnen machen es ihnen leicht, den höchsten Gipfel Deutschlands zu erreichen. Für Bergsteiger jedoch ist der Weg das Ziel. Wir stellen vier Routen vor, die eine Annäherung der besonderen Art möglich machen.

Welch ein Berg ! Ganz gleich, von welcher Seite man sich der Zugspitze nähert – sie wirkt massiv und gewaltig. Mit mehr als 2000 Höhenmetern in Fels und Eis ragt der Koloss aus den Tälern rundum empor und übertrifft deutlich alle umliegenden Gipfel. So erklärt sich auch die starke Anziehungskraft der Zugspitze auf alle Bergsteiger.

In diesem Artikel erfährst du alles Wissenswerte über die verschiedenen Routen und worauf du achten musst, wenn du selbst den höchsten Berg Deutschlands einmal in Angriff nehmen willst.

Die besten Routen auf die Zugspitze – alle Informationen im Überblick

In diesem Artikel erfährst du alles über die besten Routen:

• Der sanfte Anstieg auf die Zugspitze über das Reintal
• Spektakulärer Gletscher-Klettersteig hoch über dem Höllental
• Anspruchsvoller Geheimtipp über den Stopselzieher
• Die schwierigste Route auf die Zugspitze über den Jubiläumsgrat
• Wie die Erstbesteigung der Zugspitze verlief

Die vier schönsten Wege auf Deutschlands höchsten Berg

• Durch das Reintal : Der einfachste Weg auf die Zugspitze ist zugleich auch der beschaulichste und vielleicht schönste.
• Durch das Höllental : Mehr als zwei Kilometer Höhenunterschied gilt es zwischen Hammersbach und dem Gipfel zu überwinden.
• Über den „Stopselzieher“ : Buchstäblich im Schatten der beiden anderen Normalwege steht der anspruchsvolle Anstieg durch die Westflanke.
• Der Jubiläumsgrat : Der Jubiläumsgrat ist mehr als „nur“ ein Klettersteig – er ist eine Tour, die den ganzen Bergsteiger fordert.

Die einfachste Wanderung zur Zugspitze über das Reintal

Die Wanderung auf die Zugspitze über das Reintal führt zunächst durch den spektakulär in den Fels geschlagenen Pfad der Partnachklamm zur Reintalangerhütte, einer beliebten Unterkunft für alle, die die Besteigung der Zugspitze oder sogar deren Überschreitung in zwei bis drei Tagen ohne Klettersteig angehen möchten.

Über die wunderschön gelegene Knorrhütte führt der an den kritischen Stellen oft drahtseilversicherte Steig schließlich hinauf zum stark verbauten Gipfelplateau. Von hier ist es nur noch eine kurze Kletterei zum spektakulären Gipfelkreuz. Der lange, ruhige Weg auf die Zugspitze über das Reintal ist ideal für Anfänger und Menschen mit Hund, kurz: alle, die die Zugspitze zum ersten Mal besteigen und noch wenig hochalpine Erfahrung vorweisen können.

• Höhendifferenz: 2200 Meter
• Zeit: 10 Stunden
• Schwierigkeit: Der leichteste Weg auf die Zugspitze und dennoch eine schwere Tour. Kondition und Schwindelfreiheit werden vorausgesetzt.

Weitere Infos zur Tour findest du hier.

Besteigung der Zugspitze: Kräftiger Gletscher-Anstieg über das Höllental

Auch der Weg auf die Zugspitze durch das Höllental führt durch einen beeindruckenden Klammsteig. Nachdem man die Höllentalklamm durchstiegen hat, heißt es schon bald: Helm und Klettersteigausrüstung anlegen! Der Klettersteig bis hoch zum Gipfel der Zugspitze ist nämlich nichts für schwache Nerven.

Über den Höllentalferner geht es mit beindruckenden Tiefblicken und strammen Klettersteig-Partien schließlich bis hinauf auf den Gipfel von Deutschlands höchstem Berg. Der Steig auf die Zugspitze über das Höllental ist eine besonders herausfordernde und spektakuläre Route, die man nur mit ausreichend Klettersteig-Erfahrung angehen sollte. Dafür werden sich die Mühen allerdings lohnen.

• Zeit: 6 bis 7 Stunden
• Schwierigkeit: Schwer! Absolute Trittsicherheit, Kondition und alpine Erfahrung sind Voraussetzung.

Weitere Informationen zur Tour findest du hier.

Anspruchsvoller Geheimtipp auf die Zugspitze: der Stopselzieher

Ziemlich unbekannt, und dafür auch als echter Geheimtipp gehandelt, ist der Aufstieg vom Eibsee aus über den Stopselzieher . Durchgehend steil und ausgesetzt geht es hinauf auf den Gipfel der Zugspitze, auch wenn der Klettersteig nicht ganz so viel Erfahrung fordert und die Tiefblicke nicht ganz so beängstigend sind wie am Steig gegenüber über das Höllental.

Unterwegs bietet die Wiener-Neustädter-Hütte einen geeigneten Unterschlupf für all jene, denen die weit über 1500 Höhenmeter Klettersteig an einem Tag doch zu viel sind. Der Stopselzieher ist dabei der ideale Weg für alle, die die Zugspitze einmal aus einer unbekannten Perspektive erleben möchten und die Nerven für ausgesetzte Klettersteig-Passagen haben.

• Höhendifferenz: 1730 Meter
• Zeit: 5 bis 6 Stunden
• Schwierigkeit: Schwer. Gesicherte Klettersteig-Passagen. Trittsicherheit und Schwindelfreiheit sind absolute Voraussetzung.

Die Königsetappe: Die Zugspitze besteigen über den Jubiläumsgrat

Der spektakulärste, schwierigste und auch lohnenswerteste Weg auf die Zugspitze führt über die Alpspitze und den Jubiläumsgrat, durchgängig ausgesetzt und mit unglaublichen Tief- und Fernblicken bis hinüber zum Gipfel der Zugspitze. Ein wirklich einzigartiger Weg, den an so schnell nicht mehr vergessen wird.

Dieser äußerst anspruchsvolle Steig sollte nur von erfahrenen Bergsteigern und auch nur bei absolut stabilen Bedingungen gegangen werden. Sollte man sich unterwegs doch in einem Gewitter wiederfinden, sorgt eine Biwakschachtel für den Übernachtungsschutz im Notfall.

• Höhendifferenz: 2250 Meter
• Zeit: 9 Stunden
• Schwierigkeit: Sehr schwer. Der Jubiläumsgrat ist die längste und schwierigste Route auf die Zugspitze. Das ist wirklich keine Bergwanderung mehr, auch nicht „nur“ ein Klettersteig, sondern eine anspruchsvolle Bergtour, die den „ganzen“ Bergsteiger fordert.

 Wandern auf die Zugspitze: Unser Fazit 

Trotz zweier Seilbahnen und einer Zahnradbahn, trotz Skizirkus am Zugspitzplatt, trotz Gipfelhaus mit Tourismus-Rummel – die Zugspitze hat als mächtigster und höchster Berg Deutschlands nichts von ihrer Faszination verloren.

Und wer sich der Zugspitze wie ein „richtiger“ Bergsteiger, also über eine der hier genannten Routen nähert, wird dabei mit Sicherheit unvergessliche Stunden erleben. Mit dem entsprechenden Training und angemessener Sicherheitsausrüstung ist die Besteigung der Zugspitze ein absolut einmaliges Erlebnis! Für Kinder ist eine Besteigung der Zugspitze allerdings eher nicht geeignet.

Außerdem gibt es noch eine fünfte, unbekannte Route auf die Zugspitze: Erst vor wenigen Jahren wurde ein alter Steig wiederentdeckt, den die Tunnelbauer für die Zahnradbahn angelegt hatten. Eine besonders alpine Route („Eisenzeit“), die wegen der schwierigen Orientierung lieber mit Bergführer gemacht werden sollte.

Alles über die Erstbesteigung der Zugspitze

Bereits am 27. August 1820 kletterte Leutnant Josef Naus auf den Westgipfel –  die erste nachgewiesene Besteigung der Zugspitze. Trotzdem ist es höchst wahrscheinlich, dass die Zugspitze schon früher bestiegen wurde – Indiz dafür ist eine handgezeichnete Karte mit genauen Zeitangaben, die aus den Jahren zwischen 1750 und 1780 stammen dürfte.

Seither ist die Zugspitze bestens kartografiert und schließlich auch erschlossen worden. Inzwischen gelangen die Menschen Jahr für Jahr tausende Male auf den verschiedensten Routen auf ihren Gipfel. Mit dem Bau der Zahnrad- und später auch der Seilbahnen erhält die Zugspitze Jahr für Jahr neue Besucherrekorde.

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• Deutschland
• Klettersteig
• Schneeschuhwandern
• Mountainbike
• Wandern, Trekking
• Klettern, Klettersteig, Hochtour
• Winterausrüstung
• Testberichte
• Auf Wanderungen
• Auf Klettertouren
• Auf Klettersteigen
• Auf Rennradtouren
• Auf Mountainbiketouren
• Auf Fahrradtour
• Camping und Caravaning
• Auf Skitour
• Auf Hochtour
• Auf Hüttentour
• Unterhaltung
• Winterwissen
• Interviews, Porträts und Reportagen
• Outdoor Deals
• Alle Themen

Zugspitze Mountain Tour – tickets, prices, timings, what to expect

Zugspitze is Germany’s highest peak and the tallest summit in the Wetterstein Mountains.

The Zugspitze, which rises to 2962 meters (9718 feet) above sea level and provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain sceneries, is located in the Bavarian Alps close to the Austrian border.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for the Zugspitze Mountain Tour.

Top Zugspitze Mountain Tour Tickets

# Zugspitze Mountain Tour tickets # Munich CityTourCard

Table of contents

What to expect at zugspitze mountain tour, where to book tickets, how do online tickets work, zugspitze mountain tour ticket price, zugspitze mountain tour tickets, meeting point for zugspitze mountain tour, zugspitze mountain tour timings, best time to visit zugspitze mountain, faqs about the zugspitze mountain tour.

Ride the cable car up to the top from Garmisch-Partenkirchen, where lifts from Austria and Germany meet. 

Discover eateries, stores, and telescopes at the summit, and take in the breathtaking vistas of the Alps. 

Savor a midday meal while taking in the expansive vistas of the peaks before entering Austria. 

Enjoy a beer at Germany’s tallest beer garden without a passport. 

Finish the journey with a breathtaking cog-wheel train trip over the stunning Alps, capping off a day full of amazing encounters.

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You can purchase tickets to the Zugspitze Mountain Tour online or offline.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than offline.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket counters.

Because some tours sell limited tickets, they may sell out during peak days. Booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

Visit the Zugspitze Mountain Tour ticket booking page , select the number of tickets and date, and book right away.

Once you purchase the Zugspitze Tour tickets, they get delivered to your email address. 

There is no need to get printouts of the ticket. 

You can show the guide the e-ticket on your smartphone and join the tour.

Tickets to the Zugspitze Mountain Tour cost €100 per person. 

A minimum of two participants is required for this activity.

With this skip-the-line ticket to Germany’s highest peak, you’ll travel from Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen in the comfort of an air-conditioned van and ascend the Zugspitze by cable car.

The ticket includes hotel pickup and drop-off but not the cable car ticket. You can get the cable car ride for €63.

The mid-day meal is not part of the ticket.

An English-speaking guide will conduct the tour. 

Ticket Price: €100

Save time and money! Maximize your experience with the Munich CityTourCard . Travel free on public transport in downtown Munich and save up to 50% on attractions, restaurants, theaters, tours, and more!

The tour to Germany’s highest peak starts from Garmisch-Partenkirchen . 

The Obernbayernbus and the Flixbus make regular stops at the central station , making it simple to go to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. 

You can go to the train station in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, which has excellent access to the public transportation system.

The Zugspitze Mountain Tour starts at 9 am and takes around 6 to 8 hours.

The cable car to the peak operates from 8.30 am to 4.45 pm from September to June and from 8 am to 5.45 pm in July and August.

The ride in the cable car takes around 10 minutes, departing at least once every 30 minutes.

The final ascent is scheduled 30 minutes before the end of operation. 

The best time to visit Zugspitze Mountain will largely rely on your interests and the experiences you hope to have. 

Summer (June to August) brings clear skies and nice weather, perfect for outdoor pursuits like trekking and summit exploration. 

Alpine flora is in flower in the spring, which runs from April to May, and offers milder weather and fewer visitors. 

Vibrant foliage decorates the terrain in the fall (September to October), bringing calmness to the area. 

Zugspitze becomes a winter paradise throughout winter (November to March), ideal for skiing lovers and other winter sports.  

The attraction provides a captivating experience year-round, whether you’re seeking action or peace.

The Zugspitze Mountain Tour is a highly-rated tourist attraction. 

Check out two reviews we selected from Tripadvisor, which give you an idea of what to expect at this attraction.

Excellent climate, views, and friendly people

The views were amazing, excellent climate. Took many photos…The guide was excellent to coordinate and provide information.

Connector34539041631, TripAdvisor

Excellent tour and a memorable trip

Excellent tour, and the trip was very comfortable. The guide explained everything related to the place on the way. I very much advise this to anyone visiting Germany who don’t want to go through the hassle of changing trains. 

rathish n, TripAdvisor

Here are a few frequently asked questions about the tour of Zugspitze Mountain.

Visitors can purchase tickets for the Zugspitze Mountain Tour online and offline. We suggest you purchase your tickets online in advance for the best possible experience.

Purchased tickets to the Zugspitze Mountain Tour are solely valid for the specified date. In inclement weather, tickets cannot be refunded or rescheduled. For this reason, we advise confirming the weather prediction before purchasing tickets.

Yes! Bringing your dog on the tour is permitted. The cable car ascent and descent have a one-time fee of €6 per dog.

Unfortunately, the Grainau – Zugspitze cogwheel train line, as well as the cable cars, chairlifts, and surface lifts operated by Bayerische Zugspitzbahn Bergbahn AG, do not provide free transportation for those with impairments.

The Zugspitze Mountain Tour does not permit the use of bicycles for transportation.

The Zugspitze Mountain Tour tickets are not transferable.

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This article was researched & written by

Najeeb PK is a seasoned traveler who finds joy and freedom in exploring new places by himself. He has a keen eye for architecture, always on the lookout for unique buildings and innovative city layouts. Najeeb’s passion for travel deeply enriches his writing, providing it with authenticity and perceptive insights. His work captures the essence of each destination, making his articles a valuable resource for those eager to explore new places. Full of useful tips for both locals and tourists, Najeeb’s writing is a treasure trove of information. Favourite movie: Eat, Pray, Love. Next Destination: Vienna

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Zugspitze: Hike over the Gatterl – the route for beginners

On the Zugspitze lead a total of five paths. The hike over the Gatterl and via the Knorrhütte is long and sweaty, but comparatively easy. The Gatterl tour is conditionally strenuous, but does not necessarily require high-alpine experience. Endurance, sure-footedness, head for heights, good preparation and equipment are, however, also necessary on this hike. Thanks to two mountain railroads, even less experienced hikers can venture the Gatterl tour to the Zugspitze. By the way, here you will find all hiking tours that lead to the Zugspitze.

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Video: Hike over the Gatterl to the Zugspitze

Starting the hike at the Ehrwalder Alm

We’re leaving from Munich at dawn. Our destination is Ehrwald in Tyrol . We shorten the hike up to the Zugspize a bit by taking the cable car Ehrwalder Almbahn. We’re planning to bivouac at the peak of the Zugspitze tonight, so we’re not only carrying our supplies for the day but also a sleeping bag, camping mat and thick clothes.

The Ehrwalder Almbahn takes us and our heavy backpacks to 1500 metres within a couple of minutes, covering an elevation gain of 500 metres. From here, the peak of the Zugspitze is only 1462 metres above us.

We take one of the first cars and enjoy the beautiful view of the surrounding mountains. But once we arrive at the Ehrwalder Alm, the hard part begins. With the heavy backpacks on our shoulders, we hit the trail in the direction of the Gatterl. We follow the routeway from the Ehrwalder Alm.

Tour dates Zugspitze

Tour data (only ascent) from valley station ehrwalder almbahn.

15,5 kilometer

8 bis 10 hours

Breathtaking mountain panorama

We have a clear view of the Ehrwalder Sonnenspitze, the Tajakopf and the Drachenkopf . The gravelly road now steepens and we’re gaining height rather quickly. There’s not a single cloud in the sky and the sun is burning. We aren’t the only ones on the trail. Minute by minute, hikers come our way and we keep on passing larger groups on their way to the Zugspitze.

If you’re looking for solitude, the Zugspitze is definitely not the place to be, especially on weekends when the weather is as good as it is today. You could of course start in the middle of the night – the trail will be practically deserted early in the morning.

The trail now leads us past a gently descending mountain slope covered in grass. The mountain pines have long disappeared and we can enjoy the view. After one and a half hours, we reach a small plateau with a little rock pinnacle, where many hikers are already resting. It’s worth climbing the small peak, because the view of Ehrwald and the Gaistal valley is impressive. But we won’t stay for long. After all, we’ve got a long way ahead of us.

The Gatterl

We now descend again for a bit. The trail is clearly visible here and leads us straight to the Gatterl in about an hour. An old squeaking gate marks the frontier between Austria and Germany , but you won’t find any frontier posts. The Gatterl is a popular photo subject and we obviously make a short stop here, too.

In front of us, there’s the Zugspitzplatt – a huge sea of rocks surrounded by massive peaks. The next part of the trail called Plattsteig is a bit rougher than before. Again and again, we have to jump over rocky steps. Some hikers here are seriously struggling with this, but if you’re a regular mountaineer you shouldn’t have too much of a problem.

The Knorr Hut

In the distance, we can already make out our next intermediate stop: the Knorr Hut . It will take us about another hour to reach it from the Gatterl. In the meantime, we enjoy the breathtaking 360-degree view of the Zugspitze and other peaks like the Schneefernerkopf, the Zugspitzeck and the Wetterspitzen.

The Knorr Hut is jam-packed, as we expected. We find ourselves a table in the small beer garden on the sun terrace and order something to drink. The selection up here is pretty limited, but it’s more about getting enough water anyway. The trail up to the Knorr Hut really made us sweat. We refill our water bottles and continue in the direction of the Zugspitze.

On our way to the peak

The trail gets even steeper now ant the slippery gravel doesn’t really make it any better. I can already feel the height, or at least I think I can. The reward for our travails is a breathtaking view over the Zugspitzplatt and the surrounding peaks. Directly in front of us, for example, there’s the Schneefernerkopf , which, with its 2875 metres, is not much smaller than the Zugspitze.

Here on the Zugspitzplatt, there’s even some snow left, but it’s far too little to hinder us from moving forward. It does, however, provide an excellent opportunity for a snowball fight, that especially some younger hikers don’t hesitate to embrace.

The final ascent to the Zugspitze

The trail over the Zugspitzplatt leads us steadily to the top. By now, our legs are burning and our shoulders are tired from the weight of the backpacks. Finally, after about one and a half hours, we reach the station at the bottom of the glacier cable car and the Sonnalpin house.

Now it’s time for the final ascent. The mountaineers resemble a bunch of ants while they struggle to climb the steep scree slope. Passing the Schneefernerhaus , it’s another 400 metres in height that we have to conquer. We watch the others for a while and try to make out the best route through the scree field. We come to the conclusion that the lesser used alternative on the right is the better option.

Ascending through the scree field

We take a final bite of our energy bar, adjust our backpack and set out for the final part of our hike. Even though the trail is steep and the ground is very slippery, we’re able to move forward surprisingly quickly. After only half an hour, we’ve crossed the scree field.

The view from up here of the Zugspitzplatt and the Schneeferner, or rather what’s left of the glacier, is breathtaking. However, we still haven’t reached the peak. Before we can enjoy the traditional snack at the summit, we have to master a via ferrata secured with steel ropes.

Again and again, we have to use our hands but it never gets too difficult. Nonetheless, after such a long hike, we have to be very focused – one false move can cost you dearly.

I’m very tired by now and need a little break every once in a while. After the steep final ascent my legs are burning and I’m breathing heavily. Biggi seems to handle it a bit better, but she’s also glad that we’ve almost made it. One last slope and we should be there. No, directly in front of us, another rock face appears. The peak of the Zugspitze doesn’t seem to come any closer. Time to grit our teeth again and keep on moving.

At the top of the Zugspitze

We’ve finally made it! We’re at the top of Germany’s highest mountain – or rather on the ugly platform that ruins this peak. Transmitter masts, three cable cars, restaurants, terraces, a meteorological station and the Münchner Haus have been built here over the years.

The cable cars start from Germany and Austria and take up to 4000 visitors a day to the peak. It’s not idyllic here, but we knew that beforehand – and right now, we don’t care at all. We take a pass on the small via ferrata to the summit cross, an area way too tiny for the dozens of people there.

Instead, we enter the fray, find ourselves a table in the beer garden and enjoy a cold shandy (which is called Radler, the German word for cyclist) and a piece of apple strudel. However, the prices up here are obviously quite high.

Finally, some quiet on the Zugspitze

We can’t wait for the last car to make its way down to the valley. Then we finally have our peace up here. The Münchner Haus is still quite full, but no one is wearing sandals. Pretty much everyone here has mastered the ascent by their own efforts.

Meanwhile, there are some serious looking thunderclouds forming in the sky. Will this interfere with our plans to bivouac up here? Doesn’t matter, right now all we’re thinking about is a delicious dinner in the Münchner Haus. Dumplings, sauerkraut, and gravy – vegetarian style. It’s one of the best meals we’ve ever had. Maybe that’s due to the exhausting ascent, but we don’t really care right now. We’re still sitting in the restaurant of the Münchner Haus and can already guess by looking out the window that the sunset tonight will be absolutely phenomenal.

I can’t wait to get back outside and set up my camera. All around us, huge clouds are banking up and in the distance, we can already detect thunder and lightning. Let’s hope we’ll be spared! Above us, it doesn’t look too bad – high time to make our way to the peak. The via ferrata isn’t difficult and it takes us just a few minutes to reach the gilded summit cross of the Zugspitze.

Dramatic sunset on the Zugspitze

The sunset is just as breathtaking as we had expected. The sun peaks through the thick clouds again and again and turns the landscape into a sea of colours. Everybody’s overwhelmed and stunned by this rare spectacle of nature. But enough talking, just see for yourselves…

Bivouac on the Zugspitze

The Munich house is packed and there are also only emergency camps for six euros. But we want to bivouac outdoors anyway. Looking at the sky, we feel a bit queasy, but we set up our modest camp in a place somewhat protected from the wind. We are lucky – it drizzles only a little during the night, but we are spared a thunderstorm. Yes, we even have a great view of the starry sky at night – an unforgettable experience.

Sunrise by the summit cross

Long before the sun rises, we’re standing below the summit cross with a couple of other mountaineers. The start to this day is just as overwhelming as the end to the one before. Below us, clouds roll by while the sky is already illuminated in the most beautiful colours. But as the sun rises on the horizon, the landscape basically explodes. We’re standing at the top of the mountain and look towards the Jubiläumsgrat – behind it, the rising sun. An experience we will never forget.

Descending from the Zugspitze

After witnessing this unique spectacle of nature, we treat ourselves to a hearty breakfast in the Münchner Haus. Farmhouse bread with butter and cheese – everything the heart desires. And before all the crowds arrive, we start our descent.

Instead of crossing the steep scree field about 400 metres down to the Zugspitzplatt on foot, we take the glacier cable car. The descent would have been no fun and we most certainly wouldn’t have enjoyed the hike. For seven euros, the cable car takes us down in two minutes. At such an early hour, there’s barely anyone here – a stark contrast to the day before.

We make our way back in the direction of the Knorr Hut and enjoy the beautiful 360-dregree view. The trail is pretty steep and the gravel is a bit unpleasant, but it shouldn’t be too difficult for anyone. At the Knorr Hut, that’s already quite full again, we just fill up our water bottles before continuing our hike. In this direction, the route provides another scenic highlight.

Delicious apple strudel

Four hours later, we’ve arrived at the Ehrwalder Alm. We find ourselves a table in the sun-flooded beer garden with a view of the Ehrwalder Sonnenspitze, the Tajakopf and the Drachenkopf and treat ourselves to a delicious piece of apple strudel. In contrast to the restaurants on the Zugspitze, the size of the portions here is gigantic, while the prices are small and the taste is amazing.

If you don’t feel like hiking, you can just come to the Ehrwalder Alm for pure enjoyment. Unlike on our way up the mountain, we now descend to the parking site. After another four and a half hours, we’re back at the starting point of our Zugspitze tour.

What you should know about the Gatterl hike up to the Zugspitze

The Gatterl tour up to the Zugspitze is a real highlight in terms of scenery and technically not that difficult. Just at the Gatterl – the border crossing point between Austria and Germany, there’s a small part where you have to climb. If you don’t think you’re capable of mastering the final ascent through the steep scree field and the via ferrata to the peak of the Zugspitze, you can use the glacier cable car that covers an elevation gain of about 400 metres.

However, surefootedness and proper planning – that does include an obligatory (!) weather check – are prerequisites for this tour. You’ll be in the alpine mountains, so weather changes and drops in temperature can happen quickly and become pretty dangerous in such heights.

With regard to stamina, don’t underestimate the hike up to the Zugspitze. If you use the Ehrwalder Almbahn to the Ehrwalder Alm like we did, you still have to cover 13 kilometres and 1,570 metres in height. If you want to save the money for the Ehrwalder Almbahn, you have to leave very early and cover the 15.5 kilometres and 1,960 metres in height yourselves. For the way back, you might want to use the glacier cable car to the Zugspitzplatt. It costs only seven euros and saves you a pretty unpleasant and dangerous descent.

If you want to spend the night on the Zugspitze, you can do so at the Münchner Haus ( here’s the website ). On weeknights, you can reserve a bed, but that’s not possible on the weekend. There’s always a spot, though, but you might have to come to terms with sleeping on the floor. You can also bivouac on the Zugspitze, just ask the innkeeper at the Münchner Haus, where a good spot is. You should leave the bivouac spot as you found it, because otherwise they might stop people from bivouacking on the Zugspitze in the future.

The five most famous hikes up to the Zugspitze

One of the easiest and most popular hikes up to the Zugspitze is the tour via the Gatterl that we’ve described in this article. If you’re looking for a more relaxed or family-friendly hike, you can use the hiking ticket “Gatterl”. It includes the three cable car rides with the Ehrwalder Almbahn, the glacier cable car (Gletscherbahn) and the Tiroler Zugspitzbahn, as well as the bus ride back to the starting point of the hike.

The ticket can also be used in the opposite direction. Personally, though, we would prefer standing on top of a mountain at the end of the tour rather than the beginning. Plus, the ticket also includes the entry to the interactive museum “Faszination Zugspitze”.

With 21 kilometres, the hike via the Partnach Gorge and the Reintal up to the Zugspitze is the longest tour. Technically, it’s not difficult, but it does require a certain amount of stamina as you have to cover an elevation gain of more than 2200 metres. At the Knorr Hut, hikers on the Reintal tour will meet the hikers on the Gatterl tour.

Stopselzieher

The hike via the Wiener-Neustädter Hut and the via ferrata Stopselzieher is the shortest and fastest way to reach the Zugspitze peak on foot. However, you will have to cross some scree fields and the via ferrata. After about six kilometres and more than 1700 metres in height, you will be on top of the Zugspitze.

The hike through the Höllental (translated: valley of hell) up to the Zugspitze starts in Hammersbach. The beginning through the spectacular Höllental Gorge is pretty relaxed until you reach the Höllental via ferrata with the difficulty level B. In case of good weather, you might have to expect longer waiting times.

Before reaching the Zugspitze peak, you’ll also have to cross the Höllentalferner glacier. Crampons are absolutely necessary here! Especially in summer, the glacier’s randkluft can cause some problems. The Höllental hike up to the Zugspitze is just about ten kilometres long, but the elevation gain amounts to over 2200 metres.

Jubiläumsgrat

The Jubiläumsgrat is definitely the most challenging route to the Zugspitze. To reach the Jubiläumsgrat, you will have to climb the peak of the Alpspitze (2628 meters) first. The starting point is the parking site of the Alpspitzbahn in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The cable car will take you up to 2033 metres, from where you will use the Alpspitz-Ferrata to climb the Alpspitze. This is only the start of the Jubiläumsgrat, which takes you to the Zugspitze in eight to ten hours. It’s reserved for experienced alpinists and should not be done unless the weather is absolutely stable.

The Jubiläumsgrat is not a classic via ferrata – there are sections where you can secure yourself, but large parts of the strongly exposed path have to be free-climbed. Many mountaineers also use one of the cable cars to reach the Zugspitze peak and make their way back to the Alpspitze via the Jubiläumsgrat on foot. The Jubiläumsgrat is a good seven kilometres long. If you use this way to reach the Zugspitze, you have to keep in mind that the Jubiläumsgrat alone has an elevation gain of 1200 metres when ascending and 350 metres when descending.

Packing list for the hike up to the Zugspitze

• Hiking backpack with a capacity of 35 to 40 litres
• Sturdy hiking boots with a good grip – no trainers or low shoes, please
• Hiking sticks
• Windbreaker
• Warm jacket
• Fleece jumper
• Windproof hiking trousers – no jeans, please
• Head protection
• Protection against the rain
• Enough cash – in the Münchner Haus, they don’t accept cards
• Enough water and food
• Sunscreen with a very high SPF
• Medication, for example headache pills, contact lens solution etc.
• Headlamp for emergencies
• Hiking map and/or GPS
• Mobile phone/smartphone
• Camera + possibly small travel tripod
• Spare batteries for GPS, headlamp and camera
• Pocketknife
• ID and, if applicable, membership card of the German Alpine Association (DAV)
• Small bin bag – please don’t throw away your rubbish on the trails. If nobody clears it away, plastic waste lies around in nature for hundreds of years
• If you want to sleep at the Münchner Haus, you’ll also need a thin sleeping bag, slippers, pyjamas and a microfibre towel as well as a toothbrush, toothpaste etc.

Florian Westermann

Florian is a travel journalist, photographer and co-founder of the travel blog Phototravellers . "Photography and the mountains are my passion. I've been to North America countless times, but I'm also fascinated by the Nordic countries, Italy and of course our home country Germany." By the way, here you can find my online photography course .

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• Routenplaner

Zugspitze Gipfel

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Zugspitze Gipfel

Wander-Highlight

1857 von 1912 Wandernde empfehlen das

Dieses Highlight liegt in einem geschützten Gebiet

Touren, die zu diesem Highlight führen, sind möglicherweise gefährlich

Routen können technisches, anspruchsvolles oder gefährliches Gelände enthalten. Möglicherweise sind dafür spezielle Ausrüstung und Vorkenntnisse erforderlich.

2.962 Meter ragt der Gipfel der Zugspitze vor den Toren Garmisch-Partenkirchens in die Höhe. Er ist damit der höchste Berg Deutschlands und ebenso der höchste Berg des Wettersteingebirges.

Das gesamte Massiv der Zugspitze liegt in Bayern sowie im Norden Tirols. Die Grenze zwischen Deutschland und Österreich verläuft über den Westgipfel.  

Südlich des Gipfels liegt das Zugspitzplatt. Unter der Karst-Hochfläche findest du zahlreiche Höhlen, auf ihr liegt das Skigebiet. Insgesamt drei Gletscher befinden sich an den Flanken der Zugspitze: der nördliche und südliche Schneeferner sowie der Höllentalferner. 

Die Zugspitze bietet dir tolle Gipfelbesteigungen, zum Teil über einen gut gesicherten Klettersteig. Die Aufstiege erreichst du über das Reintal von Garmisch-Partenkirchen aus, über das Höllental von Hammersbach aus oder durch den Anstieg über das Schneekar vom Eibsee oder Ehrwald aus.

Auch die Zugspitzbahn bringt dich hinauf. Von Garmisch-Partenkirchen aus fährt die Zahnradbahn durch den Berg, von Ehrwald-Obermoos in Tirol fährt die große Gondel-Seilbahn und vom EIbsee aus gibt es eine weitere Gondel-Seilbahn. 

Auf dem Gipfel findest du die meteorologische Station des deutschen Wetterdienstes sowie etwas unterhalb des Westgipfels das Münchner Haus. Das Münchner Haus ist mit 2.959 Metern Höhenlage die höchste Hütte des deutschen Alpenvereins. Sie ist bewirtschaftet.

Bei gutem Wetter kannst du von den Panoramaterrassen über 400 Gipfel in Deutschland, Österreich, Italien und der Schweiz sehen – darunter auch die höchsten Berge der Ostalpen wie der Großglockner (3.798 Meter), die Wildspitze (3.768 Meter), der Ortler (3.905 Meter) und der Piz Bernina (4.049 Meter). Bis zu 250 Kilometer Weitsicht sind möglich. 

Über das Gebiet der Zugspitze verteilt findest du zahlreiche Hütten, um deine Touren in Etappen aufzuteilen. Dafür bieten sich zum Beispiel die Höllentalangerhütte (1.381 Meter), die Reintalangerhütte (1.370 Meter), die Knorrhütte (2.051 Meter) oder die Wiener-Neustädter-Hütte (2.209 Meter) an.

Ort: Grainau , Garmisch-Partenkirchen , Oberbayern , Bayern , Deutschland

Wer vorhat, die Zugspitze von Ehrwald aus zu besteigen und mit der Bahn wieder hinunter zu fahren, sollte sich vorher über die Betriebszeiten der Tiroler Zugspitzbahn erkundigen. Mehrmals im Monat findet nämlich auf der Zugspitze ein Fondue-Abend statt, an dem die Bahn bis 21.30 Uhr verkehrt. So kann man sich beim Aufstieg Zeit lassen und entgeht dem großen Trubel, wenn man erst nach 17 Uhr den Gipfel erreicht. Die Bahn kann natürlich auch genutzt werden, wenn man nicht am Fondue-Abend teilnimmt. Die Fahrkarte kann direkt vor Antritt der Fahrt am Gipfel gekauft werden. So kann man bei schönem Wetter auch noch den herrlichen Sonnenuntergang auf der Zugspitze bestaunen und der Gipfel gehört einem, mit etwas Glück, ganz allein. Infos zu den verlängerten Betriebszeiten gibt's auf der Seite der Tiroler Zugspitzbahn unter der Rubrik „Events”.

11. Februar 2017

Anstrengender aber lohnenswerter Steig zur Zugspitze. Sicher nicht für Jedermann geeignet, da doch einige schwierige Abschnitte dabei sind.

10. Juli 2017

Hier sollte man ziemlich früh hoch, denn so bald die Bahn öffnet, wird der berühmteste Gipfel Deutschlands mit Touristen förmlich überschwemmt.

13. Januar 2015

Meld dich kostenlos bei komoot an, um 150 weitere Insider-Tipps und -Tricks zu sehen.

• Tour planen
• Änderungen vorschlagen

Informationen

• Höhe 2.930 m

Berg- und Talfahrt Erwachsener/Kind: 58 Euro/32 Euro Berg- oder Talfahrt Erwachsener/Kind: 35 Euro/18,50 Euro Tageskarte Skipass Erwachsener/Kind: 46,50 Euro/23,50 Euro

• Webseite zugspitze.de/

Gut zu wissen

• Familienfreundlich Ja
• Barrierefrei Ja
• Hundefreundlich Ja

Andere beliebte Orte, die du besuchen kannst

Max-Klotz Steig

Aussicht vom Südufer

Ehrwalder Almsee

Markanter Fels mit Aussicht auf Braxeninsel und Zugspitze

Brücke in der Höllentalklamm

Atemberaubender Ausblick

Hupfleitenjoch – einmaliger Blick übers Höllental

Wunderschöner Fernblick über der Höllentalklamm

Gletscher Zugspitze

Zugspitze – Visiting the Top of Germany

Visiting zugspitze – day trip from munich.

Zugspitze is the highest mountain point in Germany. You’ll be literally at the t op of Germany (2,962 m / 9,718 ft above the sea level) and get enchanted by the breath-taking panorama view of the mountainous landscape with 400 alpine peaks of Germany, Austria, Italy and Switzerland . In addition, you can explore the crystal clear Eibsee lake at the foot of the mountains.

Did you know there was an Ed Sheeran concert on the top of Zugspitze in late 2014? Even the Dalai Lama has been to the Zugspitze.

It is a popular attraction regardless of the weather for skiing, hiking, tobogganing and site-seeing. You can include Zugspitze to your itinerary when you are visiting southern Germany or northern Austria.

Here is all you need to know to plan your day trip from Munich to visit Zugspitze .

How to get to Zugspitze?

Zugspitze is located outside the resort town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen . It belongs to both the Bavaria in Germany and Tirol in Austria .

Before the unification of Europe, the passport control was done at the Zugspitze summit Germany and Austrian border.

You can reach Zugspitze conveniently by car or by an environment friendly way of using public transportation .

Address: Zugspitze, 82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Reach by Car

By car, you can take the Autobahn A95/Garmisch-P from Munich, continue on B2 and exit B23 toward Garmisch. You will arrive approximately in about 1.5 hours .

There are three parking lots which you can select based on the mode of transport to the top of Zugspitze. 

Parkplatz Eibsee: The cable car (Seilbahn Zugspitze) is close to the parking lot at Lake Eibsee. If you want to take the cable car up, this is the best parking lot to arrive. Find here the cost of parking . Opening hours of the parking place is 05:00 – 22:00. Address: Am Eibsee 6, 82491 Grainau

Parking Zugspitze station Garmisch-Partenkirchen: The cogwheel train of the Bayerische Zugspitzbahn starts its journey from the Zugspitze station (Zugspitze bahnhof). You can park near the Zugspitze station at a cost of € 5 per day and take the cogwheel train. Address: Olympiastr. 27, 82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Parking Kreuzeck-/Alpspitzbahn: You can park at the free public parking at the Alpspitzbahn and Kreuzeckbahn and board the cogwheel train of the Bayerische Zugspitzbahn at Kreuzeck-/Alpspitzbahn station. Address: Am Kreuzeckbahnhof 1, 82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Reach by Train

Board the train from Munich central station (München Hbf) to the DB station at Garmisch-Partenkirchen . Here change to cogwheel train of Bayerische Zugspitzbahn Line RB64. The cogwheel train takes you via historic rack railroad to arrive at Zugspitz Plateau, from where a Glacier cable car (Gletscherbahn) take passengers to the top of summit. Find the right connections at the Deustche Bahn website .

To buy tickets at low cost, check the   summer  or winter combi-ticket at DB Travel Center (Reisezentrum) in the Hauptbahnhof. It includes the rail travel from Munich Hauptbahnhof and either the Zugspitze Ticket or the Garmisch-Classic Ticket (only Alpspitzbahn).

Reach by Bus

It is possible to arrive at Zugspitze via Bus. You can take the Flixbus from Munich or Eibsee Bus from Garmisch-Partenkirchen and arrive to Zugspitzbahn station.

Keep an eye on the last return of the bus, when planning the trip.

Getting to the top of Zugspitze

As you can see on the image, the pink solid line and pink dotted line shows the options to arrive at the top of Zugspitze Garmisch summit at 2,944 metres above sea level.

Cable Car (Seilbahn Zugspitze)

Taking the cable car either riding up or down is the quickest way to reach the peak taking about 10 minutes of journey . It runs from the parking lot near the Lake Eibsee at least every 30 min.

The state of the art new cable car was opened in 2017. The Zugspitze gondola broke three world records – highest steelwork pylon for aerial tramways at 127 metres, greatest overall height difference of 1,945 metres over one section and longest unsupported span measuring 3,213 metres.

Two cable-mounted cabins can transport up to 580 passengers per hour to avoid huge queues. You can enjoy the panorama views of the Eibsee lake, alps and villages from the cable car.

Cogwheel train and Gletscherbahn

An alternative way up the mountain is the combination of the cogwheel train from Garmisch-Partenkirchen and then, the Glacier cable car  (Gletscherbahn).

You can start the journey with cogwheel train from the Garmisch-Partenkirchner station or at several stations on the valley route, such as Hausbergbahn, Alpspitz and Kreuzeckbahn, Hammersbach and Grainau.

The cogwheel train takes the historic mountain route from Eibsee and through the 4.5 km long Zugspitze tunnel. Finally, you will arrive at the Zugspitze Plateau at 2,600 meters. Then, take the Gletscherbahn cable car for just 4 minutes of journey time straight to the Zugspitze summit at 2,962 metres.

Zugspitze Opening Hours

The cable car and the cogwheel train are in operation all year round, except the scheduled maintenance time period.

Cable car Zugspitze (Seilbahn Zugspitze) from the Eibsee to the Zugspitze summit operates during September to June at 08:30 – 16:45 and July to August at 08:00 – 17:45 . The last ascent is 30 minutes prior to the end of service time.

Glacier cable car (Gletscherbahn) from the Zugspitze glacier to the Zugspitze summit operates during September to June at 08:45 – 16:25 and July to August at  08:15 – 17:25 .

Zugspitze Ticket Price

The round-trip Zugspitze Ticket includes one mountain ascent and descent, either on the cogwheel train, a ride on the Gletscherbahn cable car and the Cable car Zugspitze. You can use the Gletscherbahn cable car as often you like on the day of your visit. It costs about € 61 per adult .

Ascent or descent only trip for the alpinists includes one mountain ascent OR descent either with the cogwheel train or the Cable car Zugspitze plus one ride with the Gletscherbahn cable car. It costs about € 36 per adult .

Check out the cost of family ticket and combi-ticket including Zugspitze Ticket as well as a Garmisch-Classic Ticket at the Zugspitze website .

Things to See and Do in Zugspitze

At the top of the Germany, you can enjoy the 360° alpine mountainous view and don’t forget the mandatory selfie in front of the golden summit cross.

Go ahead and cross the German and Austrian border at the top. You can even take a separate funicular to cross borders and actually descend into Austria.

At the level of the glacier, you can sledge on the natural snow which is possible all around the year. In winter, you can ski in twelve different slopes .

You can do an adventurous slight climb to get to the top of the peak which is marked by the golden summit cross.

At the Sonnalpin glacier restaurant and the Gletschergarten, you can try out the Bavarian food or even grab a coffee if feel cold at the cafeteria.

Explore the alpine word by hiking to the highest church in Germany, send parcels from Germany’s most remote post-office and visit the meteorological weather station .

Stroll at Eibsee Lake

Finally after descending down from the Zugspitze summit, walk around the stunning turquoise lake Eibsee with the alpine backdrop. This lake is about 973 meters above sea level. The trial around the lake is about 7.2 km and can take you about 2-3 hour of walking.

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Ready, steady, TRAVEL – blog by Maria Eckl

Never stop exploring, hike to zugspitze, the highest mountain of germany – all you need to know.

Are you ready for all the details about my 2-day hike to Zugspitze? My experience, insider tips, and all information that you need to know is summarized in this blog post.

Content of this article:

• A hike to Zugspitze – what is it like
• Possible routes and starting points
• Where to stay overnight when hiking Zugspitze
• How to book the stay at Knorrhütte
• What to bring for the hike to Zugspitze
• What you DON’t need to bring to the hike to Zugspitze
• How to get to the starting point of the hike to Zugspitze
• Further information and a detailed description of the hike
• Where to stay before the hike?
• When is the best time to hike Zugspitze in 2 days?
• Can you hike Zugspitze in autumn, like September or October?
• Can you hike Zugspitze in winter?
• What else would you like to know about the hike to Zugspitze?

1. A hike to Zugspitze – what it is like

Zugspitze is the highest mountain in Germany (2962 meters) and it is a highlight for every hiker. The hiking trail itself is very diversified, but also very challenging. I especially liked this hike because it was my first hike of more days and felt kind of like a big adventure , to carry all the stuff you need for the night etc. And I loved the view from the top. Because you can see my favourite lake in the world, Lake Eibsee, from above, which is breathtaking.

Summary of the hike to Zugspitze:

Distance: 21 kilometres Difference in Altitude: 2270 meters Duration: 13 hours in 2 – 3 days Parking: Karl-und Martin-Neuner-Platz, 82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen

2. Possible routes and starting points:

There are various options to hike the highest mountain in Germany, as well as various routes and lengths. You can start the hike in Germany or Austria and choose between popular and off the path tracks. You can find a good overview of all various options on this blog. 

We took one of the classical routes, through Rheintal (Rein valley), which starts in Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Germany and choose to do it on 2 days. Another option is the same route but in 3 days. This is especially recommended for families.

This is a summary of our route:

Starting point: Olympic ski jump at  Garmisch-Partenkirchen Day 1: Garmisch-Partennkirchen – Partnachklamm – Reintalangerhütte – Knorrhütte (overnight) Day 2: Knorrhütte –  exhausting shale field – final climbing part – peak Way down: by cable car 

Instead of staying overnight at Knorrhütte, you can stay at Reintalangerhütte, which is located about 2-3 hours before Knorrhütte. Find a description of our hike to Zugspitze in the following.

Description of the 2-day-hike to Zugspitze:

I loved the beginning of this hike. It starts in a gorge of the river Partnach. Normally this place is really busy on weekends but in the early morning on a weekday, you will have it all for yourself.

Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an Ein Beitrag geteilt von Maria | travel blogger ♡ (@readysteady.travel) am Aug 22, 2018 um 11:21 PDT

The hike continues along the Partnach river and feels pretty easy and idyllic in the beginning. After around 3 hours we reached the first hut Reintalanger , which also represents an option to stay-over night here . If you want to split the hike in 3 days. We chose to do the hike in two days. Therefore we had our lunch stop here.

This is Hut Reintalanger, where you could sleep, when doing the tour in 3 days:

And then the really tough part started , super steep paths, rubbles or I would even call it rocks all over and this for hours. The way from the first hut, Reintalanger, to the second on only other and last option to stay overnight, Knorrhütte (2051 m).

Only in the morning when the sun started to hit in the rock wall where the hut was located, we realized the beauty of this area. On this height was almost no more vegetation, but still many sheep and the hike from here on the second day was way more pleasant and easy as the second part of the first day.

After around 1 hour in this kind of rocky terrain, the challenge of the second day started: the steepest and most challenging part. It is a large shale field and you have to be really sure-footed and careful in order not to make rocks rolling down. And you have to be careful what comes from above. So keep well distance to the people in front of you.

After a lot of sweating the endorphins in our bodies slowly started to work and we were so happy that we made this challenge. The last part of the hike is quite fun and includes some little climbing and a very small path along a ridge which already gives you a glimpse of the amazing view from the top.

And finally, there we were at the top. With a thousand other people who came there by cablecar 😀 However, we felt proud that we were hiking up and not chose the easy way of the cable car.

Look at these views, the 2 days of sweating were totally worth it:

3. Where to stay overnight when hiking Zugspitze

Maybe you are wondering how staying overnight in a little hut located over 2000 meters above sea level is like? Well, basic. Don’t expect any luxury here. In fact, there are few double rooms which might allow more privacy but they are usually sold out throughout the whole year. The common room type is a dorm which is shared with 6 to 10 male and female hikers. There are dorms with real beds, similar to the ones you know from backpacking in Southeast Asia, but also these are normally sold out very quickly. And the 3rd room type is dorms which consist of mattresses on the floor. And these are not spacious at all. These are mattresses of around 70 cm next to each other, without any space in between the mattress of your neighbour and yours. If you are lucky – like me 🙂 – you will get a mattress next to the wall on your travel buddy will sleep next to you. If you are not lucky – like my travel buddy 🙁 – a big, snorring person will sleep next to you and make you feel very uncomfortable. “The worst night of my life” is a quote of my travel buddy from this hike. I’m not trying to scare you, just trying to prepare you.

The lucky mattress:

Anyways: Make sure to bring earplugs and a sleeping mask and you will get enough sleep.

Another thing you should know is that hot water is only available for a fee and you should definitely pay this fee for 3 minutes of hot water because otherwise, the water in the shower is cold as ice.

So now, let’s speak about the good things in the hut Knorrhütte: The food. The food is traditional hearty hiking food and very delicious. When booking your room you can even choose half board (which includes a soup, a main dish, and a dessert). So there is no need to bring your dinner for the hike to Zugspitze

4. How to book a stay at Knorrhütte?

This is the official website of the German alp association (Deutscher Alpenverein) which gives all the basic information about the hut Knorrhütte (in German – use the translation function of Google Chrome):  https://www.alpenverein-muenchen-oberland.de/knorrhuette

And this is where you can book a room or mattress (in German – use the translation function of Google Chrome): https://www.alpsonline.org/reservation/calendar?hut_id=149&lang=de_DE 

5. What to bring for the hike to Zugspitze

Reusable water bottle And at least 2 – 3 liters for the first day. (You can refill your water bottles or buy other soft drinks at Knorrhütte). For example, I can recommend this bottle .*

Snacks and optional lunch for both days

You can also have lunch at Reintalangerhütte, the hut where you can also sleep when doing the hike in 3 days.

Blister plaster

Very important, believe me! There is nothing worse than a hike with hurting feet. And imagine this already happens on the first day?! You can, for example, take these blister plasters .*

Ear plugs and a sleeping mask

When sleeping in a dorm, this is essential! And good sleep is essential for having a good second hiking day.

Thin sleeping bag

Bringing a sleeping bag is mandatory in the huts (in most huts in Austria in fact). A good choice is a silk sleeping bag because it keeps you warm, but you can also use it for further travels, like to Southeast Asia, when you need the silk’s cooling effect. Have a look for example at this silk sleeping bag .*

Warm clothes in layers

It can get pretty chilly on the summit and during the last part of the hike, even on summer days. Therefore make sure to bring some layers to cover. Maybe even a hat and gloves.

Changing clothes

The first day will be exhausting. Therefore bring a second pair of clothes for the second day.

Rain jacket for you and rain cover for your backpack

As weather conditions are changing fast in the mountains, you should be prepared for every weather condition.

First aid kit and emergency blanket

This is also essential for a long hike and can save lives in case of emergency. There are very compact kits especially for travelling or outdoor sports available on the market, like this compact emergency kit: *

6. What you DON’t need to bring to the hike to Zugspitze:

• Water for the second day
• lunch for both days (on the first day you can purchase lunch at the Hut Reintalanger; on the second day you can have lunch at the summit)

7. How to get to the starting point of the hike to Zugspitze

Start of the hike to Zugspitze is at the Olympic Ski Jump stadium in Garmisch-Patenkirchen which is located here: Karl-und Martin-Neuner-Platz, 82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The easiest way is to come here by car. But public transportation is an option if you don’t have a car. Just go via regional train to Garmisch-Patenkirchen and take a bus 1 direction Klinikum and get off at the Olympic stadium. Here you can find more details about the bus https://www.gw-gap.de/ortsbus/streckenplan

8. Further information and detailed description of the hike

https://www.auf-die-zugspitze-wandern.info/tour-1-durch-die-partnachklamm-und-das-reintal/ (German) https://www.theoutbound.com/germany/hiking/hike-zugspitze-via-reintal (English)

Here you can find live web cams of the peak and the area around Zugspitze: https://www.grainau.de/webcams . In May, June, September and October you should check if it is even possible to hike the mountain or if there is snow on top.

9. Where to stay before the hike?

If you are not from Bavaria or the region, you should already travel to Garmisch-Patenkirchen the day before your hike so that you can start your hike early in the morning. The closest hotel to the starting point of the hike is Olympiahaus, * which is a solid, mid-range hotel. You can get there by clicking here. *Another hotel, which is also close to the starting point and a bit more luxury is Dorint Sport Hotel. * It has a swimming pool as well as a few wellness facilities and is decorated in traditional bavarian couture. You can get to the hotel by clicking here. *

Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an Ein Beitrag geteilt von Maria | travel blogger ♡ (@readysteady.travel) am Aug 26, 2018 um 10:44 PDT

10. When is the best time to hike Zugspitze in 2 days?

The best time for the hike to Zugspitze peak is summer, from the end of June till the beginning of August. Earlier June and later August might be possible as well, however, you will risk that there is snow already. Don’t forget that the peak is almost 300 meters high. When there is snow, the hike is too dangerous. In addition, the hut Knorrhütte is only open from the end of May till the beginning of October. Therefore you can only do the 2 days hike in this period.

11. Is it possible to hike Zugspitze in autumn, like September or October?

If you are lucky you can still hike to Zugspitze in September. If there is no snow yet this is possible. In October it is not possible anymore because most like there is snow and the hut Knorrhütte has closed already. So you will not have a place to stay overnight.

12. Is it possible to do the Zugspitze hike in winter?

It is not possible to do the 2 days hike to Zugspitze in winter because it is too dangerous. In addition, the hut, where you need to stay overnight is already closed (closes in the beginning of October).

13. What else would you like to know about the hike to Zugspitze?

Did I miss any important information about the hike to Zugspitze in this blog post? Or is there any question you’d like to ask me? Just drop me a comment and I will answer the question and add it to this post.

I hope you liked this post and hope I could inspire you to do the hike to Zuspitze, the highest mountain of Germany. Never stop exploring the world!

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29 thoughts on “ Hike to Zugspitze, the highest mountain of Germany – all you need to know ”

Hi! Would like to ask if you remember how much did the caple car cost back down..? and do you now is there buses from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Eibsee (one optional starting point)? I’m planning to do this hike next summer just thinking about the costs and where to start.. 🙂

On this website you can see the prices of the new cable car: https://zugspitze.de/en/summer/preise/zugspitze From the cable car station (it arrives close to Eibsee) there are regular buses to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. However, there is a little train that goes directly from Garmisch to Zugspitze. It is a bit cheaper but takes longer. This might be interesting for you as well. Here some more information about it: https://zugspitze.de/de/live-info/zugspitze/offnungszeiten-zugspitze (The website is in German, the train I am talking about is called “Zahnradbahn” in German). I hope you will enjoy hiking up there and especially the view! Have fun!

Thank you for such detailed write up. At what time did you start hike from Garmisch-Partenkirchen. I would be hiking in same route shortly. Unfortunately my stay in Reintalangerhütte has been cancelled and Knorrhütte is not opened yet.

Is it possible to hike to Zugspitze and return by cogwheel on same day to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. If so, what time Would you suggest to start.

Are there any alternative options to stay and hike.

Looking forward for your response

Hi, cool that you are planning to do the hike. On the route I took there are only the two places you mentioned to stay overnight. But you could check anothee route. Hiking to the peak is possible in one day but it is very challenging and you should be in very good condition. I would recommend 2 days so that you can also enjoy a little bit. We left at 8 in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. If you will really try to do it in one day, I recommend leaving earlier. And one last tip: check the snow conditions! I think right now there is still a lot of snow above a certain level of altitude and I’m not sure if you can go all the way when there is snow. That is also the reason why Knorrhütte is still closed. Later in June or July and August are better months to do the hike. When are you planning to go? BR, maria

Hi Maria, Thanks for speedy reply. I would be hiking on 2nd June.

Let’s see how it goes.

Best Regards, Shivakala

Ok, better check the snow conditions 😉 have fun on the hike!

By the way, here you can see the webcams of Zugspitze and the area around: By the way, here you can check the webcams: and there is still snow on top :/ https://www.grainau.de/webcams Currently there is still snow on top :/

Thank you very much for the information. I visited Zugspitze on 1st of June 2019. Since hike wasn’t possible, reached using public transportation facility. As the weather was awesome, it was worth visiting it. Did walking trail around Eibsee. Hiked to Gschwandtnerbauer, Wamberg, Eckbauer,Graseck and Parknachtalm. Hope to hike to Zugspitze next time

Nice, so you did a lot and saw most of the beautoful places I hope you enjoyed it? I’ll cross my fingers so that you’ll have better weather next time. All the best!

Hello, thanks for the detailed information! I will visit southern Germany soon and I would like to hike to the top of Zugspitze. However, I only have one whole day for the hike. Is it possible to make it within one day? and do you have any suggestion? I do trail running in HK frequently but I am not sure how difficult the hike is… Thank you so much!

Hi there, the hike is possible in one day, but it is very very challgening and takes more than 8 hours. If you do trail running and you are super fit you night make it. However i would recommend to do it in 2 days, because then you will also enjoy the hike and nature more. Please also check the weathee conditions. I think currently there is still snow on the summit. All the beszät, Maria

By the way, here you can check the webcams: and there is still snow on top :/ https://www.grainau.de/webcams

Thank you for your description and photos. In your opinion, is a Ride up from Garmisch and a hike down in one day feasible in one day. I didn’t notice a proposed return hike with time.. Thanks!

Hi Dana, thanks for your comment. I didn’t do the route we chose the way down, nor do I know anybody who did that. That it is why I feel like I’m not the best person to answer this question. If you are an advanced hiker with a very good fitness level I would say it is feasible. However the first 4 hours are still challenging I would say, maybe down even more challenging than up, which means you will not be faster the way up. The last few hours (my beginning in Partnachklamm and the path along partnach river till the first hut) must be easy and faster than up because it was just slightly descending. Hope I could help you. But maybe proof my answer by asking some more people;)

Hi Maria, Thank you for your answer. It was very helpful. It allows me to make s better informed decision- and that decision is not to attempt it with visiting friends next month.

What also just came into my mind when thinking about it is the motivation. Our motivation for alwqys going further and not giving up was to reach the top and finally see this amazing view. But if you start on the top and you’ve seen the stunning view already, I’m not sure if you will still be motivated to hike all the way down…. many people just go up and down by cable car, maybe that’s the best option if you are lacking in time?

Great info, thanks! Was going to shoot for a single day, but you convinced us to do a two day. Booked beds at the Knorrhutte — my understanding is you have to pay cash when you get there, was that your experiance?

Good decision, in 2 days you will also have the time to actually enjoy the hike 😉 yes we paid cash when we arrived. Also for dinner you can get a 3-course menu or just a la carte menu which csn only be paid cash. But as far as I remember correctly we had to pay a small amount, like 5 euros or so in advance via bank transfer in order to confirm the booking. Better check your booking confirmation if it says something about it. Have fun at the hike!

If the hutt allready is full and there is not possibble to book even matrass? Where is posible to sleep. Thank you .

Hi, if there is no place left, you can’t go. There is no alternative unless doing the hike in one day. But I would not recommend that if you are not a very very experienced hiker of excellent condition. Sorry :/

Hi Maria, Amazing blog and photos! I am planning to take on this challenge in October. From friends in Munich I heard that you need Klettersteig gear to get to the top. Is this true or is there a different path to „walk“ up? Also I saw that no reservations were possible from October, do you know when Hütten close for the season?

Hi, the route I am describing is without climbing gear. But there are various routes and some of them include climbing. However, the route which starts at Garmisch-Patenkichen and goes through Partnachklamm, Reinthal, and overnight-stay at Knorrhütte does not require climbing gear. In addition, please be aware that hiking in October might not be possible anymore. Knorrhütte is only open till the first weekend of October. And then it is closed due to the weather conditions. You can’t do the hike after the first weekend of October. However it might be that not even in September or October it is possible anymore due to the weather conditions and snow up there. However I’d recommend to book a bed in Knorrhütte ( https://www.alpsonline.org/reservation/calendar?hut_id=149&lang=de_DE ) for the last possible weekend in October but then you wil have to decide spontaneously if you will be able to do the hike. Therefore I recommend not to put too much hope in the hike. When I did the hike last year it was the last weekend of August and the week after it started to snow on top of the mountain which means it was not possible anymore. I don’t want to demotivate you, just trying to handle expectations 😉 I will cross my fingers and hope you will be able to do the hike 🙂 BR, Maria

My wife are planning to do a one day hike. How did you get back to your car at the Olympic stadium?

Hi Kevin, the cable car goes from the summit to lake Eibsee. From there is a train to Garmisch-Patenkirchen. And from the train station we were walking of course 😉 but there are also buses from the train station to the Olympic stadium. Normally there are always other people whom you can follow. BR, Maria

Thank you! From what I could find, it looks like the last descent is 16:45?

I did the two day hike in the last couple of days, your blog was very helpful for planning, thank you . Absolutely loved it.

Great to hear, hope you liked the hike? Didn’t it snow up there a couple of days ago? Omg.

Hi Jon I am planning to do this over 2 days in August can I check with you. Where do you park on day 2 if we get to the midway point do we get the cog train back down to the olympic ski lift car park and then on the day we summit the same thing how do we get up to our next starting point do we take the cable car or drive to another point and then take the cable car back down hope this makes sense to you?? and I’d be very grateful for your assistance, thanks in advance.

Hi, if you want to do the hike, the only way is to stay overnight at Knorrhütte. There is no way that you can do the first day, then go back by cable car and sleep in the valley and then go up again and continue. Hope that helps? Have a great hike!

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This is the perfect chance to explore the tallest mountain in Germany! Following an exciting cable car ride to the peak of Germany, this full day tour commences with an introduction to the engineering, World War II history, glacial melt, and local lore of the peak. Peppered with entertaining anecdotes, this presentation is guaranteed to please the scientist, alpinist, and uninterested teen alike! 

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