Höllental Circular
56% of reviewers say this trail is hard
17.5kmLength
1,200mElevation gain
7.5–8hrEstimated time
Circular
Exciting circular hiking trail in the Franconian Forest, Bavaria.
This hike in the district of Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a real excursion into nature. This moderately difficult to difficult circular tour starts and ends at the Kreuzeckbahn valley station (Garmisch Partenkirchen). Alternatively, you can also start at the Hammersbach car park, which shortens the route. In addition to the marvellous views along the route, you also pass an exciting gorge, the "Klamm", which is subject to a fee. Wearing a rain jacket is an advantage in the gorge. Adventurers will get their money's worth on this hike - through the rocks, along waterways and across wide flower meadows.
The best time of year for this hike is from Whitsun to mid-October.
If you want to save yourself the steep descent, you can take the Kreuzeckbahn cable car down from the Kreuzeckhaus.
Highlights of the hike:
- King David viewpoint
- Höllensprudel spring
- Höllenthal hydroelectric power station with its water fountain
This text has been translated.
Phone: +49 8821 9818 50
Email: info@grainau.de
Top sights
Höllentalklamm
Gorge
Sauwankl
Peak
Höllentaleingangshütte
Alpine hut
Kreuzeck
Peak
Höllentalangerhütte
Alpine hut
Trögelhütte
Hut
Kreuzeckhaus
Alpine hut
Schwarzenkopf
Peak
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 17.5-km circular trail near Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Bavaria. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 7 h 17 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through October.
What are some of the facilities available for Höllental Circular?
There is a parking lot at the valley station of the Kreuzeckbahn, which is a good starting point for this hike. Alternatively, you can also start at the Hammersbach car park, which shortens the route.
There are several mountain huts along the route that offer refreshment stops.
What are some tips to share about Höllental Circular?
The best season for this hike is from Pentecost to mid-October.
It is advisable to wear a rain jacket in the gorge. Even on hot summer days, it is very cool here.
Instead of walking the steep descent on foot, you can also take the Kreuzeckbahn from the Kreuzeckhaus back to the starting point.
What is the expected weather this week for Höllental Circular?
Expected weather for Höllental Circular for the next 5 days is:
- Tue 22 September - 17.4 degrees/foggy
- Wed 23 September - 18.4 degrees/showers
- Thu 24 September - 16 degrees/drizzle
- Fri 25 September - 20.9 degrees/foggy
- Sat 26 September - 23.8 degrees/clear
Where is Höllental Circular located?
Höllental Circular is a trail located in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Bavaria, Germany.
How hard is Höllental Circular?
Höllental Circular is considered a hard hike that covers 17.5 km, with an elevation gain of 1,200 m. It takes about 7.5–8 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 Höllental Circular?
Höllental Circular is considered a hard hike that covers 17.5 km, with an elevation gain of 1,200 m. It takes about 7.5–8 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Höllental Circular a circular?
Höllental Circular is a circular trail that covers 17.5 km, with an elevation gain of 1,200 m. It takes about 7.5–8 hr to complete. Circular trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
How long is Höllental Circular?
Höllental Circular is a circular trail that covers 17.5 km, with an elevation gain of 1,200 m. It takes about 7.5–8 hr to complete. Circular trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
Are dogs allowed on Höllental Circular?
Dogs may be allowed on Höllental Circular. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Höllental Circular?
May to October is the most popular time of year to visit Höllental Circular.
How busy is Höllental Circular?
According to trailgoers, Höllental Circular is usually very busy. May to October is the most popular time of year to visit Höllental Circular.
Is backpacking allowed at Höllental Circular?
Backpacking is allowed on Höllental Circular. Backpacking trails are typically longer and are often point-to-point trails. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Are there forests at Höllental Circular?
Yes, Höllental Circular is a forest trail.
Is there wildlife at Höllental Circular?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Höllental Circular. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Is there a fee required at Höllental Circular?
Yes, a fee is required at Höllental Circular. Check local park resources for more information.
Last updated on 21 September 2026 at 22:25 GMT+0