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Höllentalklamm Gorge Hike: Bavaria's Scenic Adventure

A hiking adventure through a wonderland of roaring waters and ancient rock

December 20, 2025
Grainau, Germany
Hiking
Best time
Spring-Summer-Fall
Difficulty
Medium-Hard
Reachability
Car/Public Transport
Duration
Full Day
Höllentalklamm Gorge Hike: Bavaria's Scenic Adventure description

Discover Höllentalklamm

Ready for an adventure that will awaken your senses? Lace up your boots and prepare to be awe-struck by the magnificent Höllentalklamm, often hailed as Bavaria's best gorge experience. Tucked away near Grainau, this natural wonder invites you to journey through a spectacular canyon carved by millennia of rushing water. As you venture deeper, you'll navigate winding paths, carved tunnels, and sturdy bridges, all while the roaring Partnach River surges below. Experience the raw power of nature as waterfalls cascade around you, creating a misty, magical atmosphere that is uniquely Bavarian. This isn't just a hike; it's an immersive exploration into a geological masterpiece, offering an unforgettable adventure amidst towering cliffs and lush greenery. For those seeking a truly exhilarating and scenic gorge hiking experience in the Bavarian Alps, look no further! Make this incredible Höllentalklamm journey part of your next Bavaria adventure — let's get started!

Key details for Höllentalklamm

Best Time to Visit

Spring-Summer-Fall

Ideal from late spring to early autumn (June-October) when the gorge is typically open and free of snow and ice. Summer offers warmer temperatures, but spring and fall can be less crowded and equally beautiful. Always check the official opening times before planning your visit.

Difficulty

Medium-Hard

The hike through the gorge involves going through narrow, wet paths, carved tunnels, and bridges but nothing very technical. It requires good footing and good endurance since it's a bit long. There are definitely multiple possibilities to take, depending on each person's difficulty preference.

Duration

Full Day

Allow a full day to complete the round trip, including the approach from Grainau/Hammersbach, traversing the gorge, and returning. If you plan to hike further to the Höllentalangerhütte or spend more time taking photos, allocate more time.

Reachability

Car/Public Transport

The starting point in Hammersbach (near Grainau) is easily reachable by car, with paid parking available (can fill up quickly on weekends). Public transport options include taking a train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen and then a local bus or the Zugspitzbahn to Grainau/Hammersbach, followed by a walk to the gorge entrance.

Höllentalklamm Gorge Hike: Bavaria's Scenic Adventure details
Höllentalklamm Gorge Hike: Bavaria's Scenic Adventure tips

Essential tips for your visit to Höllentalklamm

Gear Up: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip, as paths can be wet and slippery. Bring a rain jacket, even on sunny days, due to the spray from waterfalls and tunnels.

Dress in Layers: The temperature inside the gorge can be significantly cooler than outside, and you might get wet from the spray. Layers are essential.

Headlamp/Torch: While not strictly necessary as tunnels are short, a small headlamp can be helpful for better visibility in darker sections and adds to the adventure.

Stay Hydrated & Fueled: Bring sufficient water and snacks. There's an opportunity to stop at the Höllentalangerhütte after the gorge if you continue, but it's wise to be self-sufficient.

Check Conditions: Always check the opening status of the gorge before you go, especially in early spring or late autumn, as it closes seasonally due to snow and ice.

Useful links

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