Discover Höllentalklamm: Hiking Through Bavaria's Wildest Gorge
The Höllentalklamm near Grainau is one of the most spectacular gorge hikes in Bavaria. Over thousands of years, the Hammersbach stream has cut a narrow canyon up to 150 m deep into the rock below the Zugspitze, and a path of tunnels and bridges leads right through it.
From Hammersbach, walk about 3 km uphill to the entrance hut at 1,045 m. Then the fun starts: about 700 m of wet, narrow trail, with waterfalls crashing down beside you and spray in the dark tunnels. It takes around 45 minutes to get through.
The gorge is open from late spring to autumn, depending on snow. Bring a rain jacket and boots with good grip, and get ready for one of the wildest walks in the Bavarian Alps!
Key details for Höllentalklamm: Hiking Through Bavaria's Wildest Gorge
Best Time to Visit
Spring-Summer-Fall
The gorge only opens when it's free of snow and ice, usually from late spring (around Pentecost) to mid-October. Summer is warmest; early summer and autumn are less crowded. Check the official opening status before you go.
Difficulty
Medium-Hard
The gorge itself has narrow, wet paths, tunnels and bridges but nothing technical. You need good footing and endurance, as the whole tour is long. There are several routes, so you can pick the one that suits you.
Duration
all day
Allow a full day for the round trip: the approach from Hammersbach, about 45 minutes through the gorge, and the way back. Continuing to the Höllentalangerhütte takes longer.
Reachability
Car/Public Transport
The hike starts in Hammersbach near Grainau. There's a paid car park, which fills up fast on weekends. By public transport, take the train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, then the bus or the Zugspitzbahn to Hammersbach. From there it's about 3 km on foot to the gorge entrance.
Essential tips for your visit to Höllentalklamm: Hiking Through Bavaria's Wildest Gorge
Gear up: wear sturdy, waterproof boots with good grip, as the paths are wet and slippery. Bring a rain jacket even on sunny days: the spray in the tunnels will soak you.
Dress in layers: it's much cooler inside the gorge than outside.
Headlamp: not strictly needed, as the tunnels are short, but it helps in the darker sections.
Water and snacks: bring enough. You can stop at the Höllentalangerhütte if you continue past the gorge, but be self-sufficient.
Check the status: the gorge closes for snow and ice and can close after heavy rain because of rockfall. Strollers and bikes aren't allowed inside.
Useful links
Map
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