Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck
71% of reviewers say this trail is hard
15.6kmLength
1,200mElevation gain
7–8hrEstimated time
Circular
Popular circular trail in the Zugspitze region, Bavaria
This scenic tour through the Höllentalklamm gorge via the Hupfleitenjoch to the Kreuzeck is an absolute must for every mountain hiker. The view of the Zugspitze and Waxenstein from the Kreuzeck is truly marvellous. On the descent from the Kreuzeck, you can relax and enjoy the view of the imposing backdrop of the entire Höllental valley.
The Höllentalklamm gorge impresses with the Hammersbach stream that eats its way deep into the rocks and thunders down into the valley with a deafening roar. The stairs, tunnels and footbridges that lead through it are also magnificent.
The gorge is accessible for a fee and only during the snow-free months, as there is an increased risk of avalanches throughout the Höllental valley in winter and bridges and footbridges are dismantled. It is essential to bring rain jackets for the gorge and ways to protect your equipment from the splashing water. It is also possible to skip the last part of the descent and take the Kreuzeck cable car down. Please note: the car park at this starting point fills up quickly and you will need coins for the parking machines.
Highlights of the hike:
- Höllental valley and Höllental gorge
- Abandoned mining tunnels
- Ruins of an old power station
- Views of the Zugspitze
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Höllentalklamm
Gorge
Höllentaleingangshütte
Alpine hut
Kreuzeck
Peak
Höllentalangerhütte
Alpine hut
Kreuzeckhaus
Alpine hut
Schwarzenkopf
Peak
Rauhkopf
Peak
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Discover this 15.6-km circular trail near Grainau, Bavaria. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 57 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through October.
What are some tips to share about Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck?
Information on the Keuzeckbahn is available at https://zugspitze.de/de/Service-Information/Anlagen.
The Höllentalangerhütte is open between May and October. More information at https://www.alpenverein-muenchen-oberland.de/huetten/alpenvereinshuetten/hoellentalangerhuette
What is the expected weather this week for Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck?
Expected weather for Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck for the next 5 days is:
- Thu 24 September - 17.8 degrees/foggy
- Fri 25 September - 21.8 degrees/clear
- Sat 26 September - 23.4 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 25.2 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 25.8 degrees/clear
Where is Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck located?
Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck is a trail located in Grainau, Bavaria, Germany.
How hard is Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck?
Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck is considered a hard hike that covers 15.6 km, with an elevation gain of 1,200 m. It takes about 7–8 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 Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck?
Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck is considered a hard hike that covers 15.6 km, with an elevation gain of 1,200 m. It takes about 7–8 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck a circular?
Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck is a circular trail that covers 15.6 km, with an elevation gain of 1,200 m. It takes about 7–8 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 Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck?
Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck is a circular trail that covers 15.6 km, with an elevation gain of 1,200 m. It takes about 7–8 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 Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck?
Dogs may be allowed on Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck?
May to October is the most popular time of year to visit Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck.
How busy is Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck?
According to trailgoers, Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck is usually very busy. May to October is the most popular time of year to visit Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck.
Are there forests at Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck?
Yes, Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck is a forest trail.
Are there wildflowers at Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Is there a fee required at Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck?
Yes, a fee is required at Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck. Check local park resources for more information.
Is Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck rocky?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Höllentalklamm and Kreuzeck includes rocky terrain. Watch your footing and wear footwear with good traction.
Last updated on 24 September 2026 at 04:46 GMT+0