Hochkalter - Kleinkalter
19.8kmLength
1,815mElevation gain
10–11hrEstimated time
Out-and-back
The route to the summit of the Hochkalter is a true alpine adventure in the heart of Berchtesgaden National Park. Starting near the picturesque Hintersee, the path winds upward through mixed mountain forests of spruce and larch before reaching the rocky, open terrain that defines this region. Along the way, the route passes the Blaueishütte, situated below the remnants of the Blaueis glacier—the northernmost small glacier in the Alps.
The mountain is made of Dachstein limestone, which forms the sharp, jagged peaks, while the valleys are often filled with debris from the more brittle Ramsau dolomite. As the path climbs steeper, green vegetation gives way to grey rock, where lucky observers might spot chamois navigating the cliffs or golden eagles soaring on thermals.
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Lahnwald-Diensthütte
Hut
Blaueis
Glacier
Heirats-Stein
Attraction
Hochkalter
Peak
Salt Head
Peak
Kleinkalter
Peak
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
Beat the crowds with weekly and monthly trail activity data from our community
Adventure starts in the app
Offline maps, navigation, and conditions — all in one place
Top trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Proceed cautiously on this 19.8-km out-and-back trail near Ramsau bei Berchtesgaden, Bavaria. Generally considered a highly challenging route, it takes an average of 9 h 51 min to complete and should only be attempted by experienced adventurers. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are June through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Hochkalter - Kleinkalter?
Expected weather for Hochkalter - Kleinkalter for the next 5 days is:
- Sun 20 September - 17.5 degrees/showers
- Mon 21 September - 14.9 degrees/clear
- Tue 22 September - 18.8 degrees/clear
- Wed 23 September - 19.2 degrees/showers
- Thu 24 September - 18.2 degrees/showers
Where is Hochkalter - Kleinkalter located?
Hochkalter - Kleinkalter is a trail located in Berchtesgaden National Park.
How hard is Hochkalter - Kleinkalter?
Hochkalter - Kleinkalter is considered a hard hike that covers 19.8 km, with an elevation gain of 1,815 m. It takes about 10–11 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
What is the elevation gain for Hochkalter - Kleinkalter?
Hochkalter - Kleinkalter is considered a hard hike that covers 19.8 km, with an elevation gain of 1,815 m. It takes about 10–11 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Hochkalter - Kleinkalter an out-and-back trail?
Hochkalter - Kleinkalter is an out-and-back trail that covers 19.8 km, with an elevation gain of 1,815 m. It takes about 10–11 hr to complete. Out-and-back trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow the route out to a specific point, and then retrace your steps to return to the start. The length of the trail refers to the entire route — travelling out and back on this route covers 19.8 km.
How long is Hochkalter - Kleinkalter?
Hochkalter - Kleinkalter is an out-and-back trail that covers 19.8 km, with an elevation gain of 1,815 m. It takes about 10–11 hr to complete. Out-and-back trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow the route out to a specific point, and then retrace your steps to return to the start. The length of the trail refers to the entire route — travelling out and back on this route covers 19.8 km.
Are dogs allowed on Hochkalter - Kleinkalter?
Dogs may be allowed on Hochkalter - Kleinkalter. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Hochkalter - Kleinkalter?
June to October is the most popular time of year to visit Hochkalter - Kleinkalter.
How busy is Hochkalter - Kleinkalter?
According to trailgoers, Hochkalter - Kleinkalter is usually somewhat busy. June to October is the most popular time of year to visit Hochkalter - Kleinkalter.
Are there forests at Hochkalter - Kleinkalter?
Yes, Hochkalter - Kleinkalter is a forest trail in Berchtesgaden National Park.
Are there wildflowers at Hochkalter - Kleinkalter?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Hochkalter - Kleinkalter, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Hochkalter - Kleinkalter?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Hochkalter - Kleinkalter in Berchtesgaden National Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 18 September 2026 at 01:04 GMT+0