Hiking in Germany
Including Berchtesgaden National Park, Eifel National Park (Wildnis-Trail), and Elbe Sandstone Mountains (Bastei). On the map.
The vibe
Hiking here feels like a rhythmic immersion into dense, ancient forests and rolling highlands where the trails are impeccably marked and maintained. Late spring through early autumn is the prime window, offering long, sun-drenched days that make the ascent to mountain huts feel effortless. You will find a mix of serious trekkers and local families, creating a social, well-trodden atmosphere that feels remarkably organized without losing its wild charm.
Berchtesgaden National Park
Bavaria
Bayerische Vermessungsverwaltung – www.geodaten.bayern.de / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)
This alpine paradise features the iconic Watzmann massif and the deep, emerald waters of Königssee. Hikers can traverse rugged limestone ridges or take gentle paths through lush meadows surrounded by towering peaks.
Access. Accessible via bus or car from Berchtesgaden town; the park is well-connected by public transport.
Notes. High-altitude routes are only snow-free from late June to September.
Eifel National Park (Wildnis-Trail)
North Rhine-Westphalia
Leonhard Lenz / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)
A multi-day trek through a landscape of ancient beech forests, rolling hills, and volcanic lakes. The Wildnis-Trail spans several stages, highlighting the diverse flora and fauna of this protected wilderness.
Access. Accessible from various towns like Monschau or Heimbach via regional trains.
Notes. Well-marked trail system; best hiked in spring or autumn.
Elbe Sandstone Mountains (Bastei)
Saxony
Schwarzweisz / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Famous for its surreal rock formations and the historic Bastei Bridge, this region offers unique hiking through sandstone canyons and jagged pinnacles. The trails provide sweeping views over the Elbe River valley.
Access. Accessible via the S-Bahn from Dresden to Kurort Rathen, followed by a short ferry ride and hike.
Notes. The area is popular; visit early in the morning to avoid peak crowds.
Jasmund National Park
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Leonhard Lenz / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)
Home to Germany's famous white chalk cliffs, this coastal park offers dramatic hiking trails along the Baltic Sea. The paths wind through ancient beech forests that terminate abruptly at the edge of steep, sea-facing cliffs.
Access. Accessible via shuttle bus from the town of Sassnitz on Rügen island.
Notes. Stay on marked trails as the cliff edges are prone to erosion.
Partnach Gorge (Partnachklamm)
Bavaria
Tiia Monto / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A dramatic 700-meter-long gorge featuring towering limestone walls and rushing glacial water. The trail winds through tunnels and along narrow galleries carved into the rock face, offering an immersive canyon experience.
Access. Located near the Olympic Ski Stadium in Garmisch-Partenkirchen; easily accessible on foot from the town center.
Notes. The gorge is open year-round, but check for winter closures due to ice hazards.
Triberg Waterfalls
Baden-Württemberg
qwesy qwesy / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Cascading down seven stages, these are among the highest waterfalls in Germany. The surrounding Black Forest trails offer a mix of dense woodland hiking and scenic viewpoints overlooking the falls.
Access. Located in the heart of the Black Forest; accessible by train or car directly to the town of Triberg.
Notes. Small entry fee required for the main waterfall paths.