Königssee Circular Hike
35.9kmLength
2,536mElevation gain
15.5–17hrEstimated time
Circular
Challenging circular hike in the Berchtesgaden National Park, Bavaria
This beautiful and challenging loop leads through the eastern part of the Berchtesgaden National Park. There are numerous fantastic views and several places to stop for refreshments along the route. Starting on the northern shore of the world-famous Königsee, the route heads towards the seasonally farmed Priesbergalm, past the Lafeldkopf, around the Obersee and back to the starting point via St. Bartholomä. A detour to the famous Grünstein via ferrata shortly before the end of the tour is the crowning glory of an unforgettable hike.
Sturdy shoes and sure-footedness are recommended.
Highlights of the hike:
- Königssee
- Upper Lake
- Grünstein via ferrata (detour)
- St Bartholomä
- Detour to the famous viewpoints "Malerwinkel" or "Obersee"
- Paths close to nature
- Stop off at one of the mountain huts along the way
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Fischunkelsee
Pond
Weg zum Obersee
Viewpoint
St. Bartholomä
Church
Mittersee
Lake
Königssee
Lake
Obersee
Lake
Ostwandlager
Hut
Gedenkstein
Attraction
Schrainbachfall
Waterfall
Walchhüttenwand
Cliff
Sillenköpfe
Peak
Schwaigerkaser
Hut
Sommerbichl
Peak
Archenkopf
Peak
Strubkopf
Peak
Stierwand
Cliff
Frauenwandl
Cliff
Landtalbach Wasserfall
Waterfall
Lafeldkopf
Peak
Top sights
Fischunkelsee
Pond
Weg zum Obersee
Viewpoint
St. Bartholomä
Church
Mittersee
Lake
Königssee
Lake
Obersee
Lake
Ostwandlager
Hut
Gedenkstein
Attraction
Schrainbachfall
Waterfall
Walchhüttenwand
Cliff
Sillenköpfe
Peak
Schwaigerkaser
Hut
Sommerbichl
Peak
Archenkopf
Peak
Strubkopf
Peak
Stierwand
Cliff
Frauenwandl
Cliff
Landtalbach Wasserfall
Waterfall
Lafeldkopf
Peak
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 35.9-km circular trail near Schönau am Königsee, Bavaria. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 15 h 12 min to complete. 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 Königssee Circular Hike?
Expected weather for Königssee Circular Hike for the next 5 days is:
- Fri 9 October - 16.3 degrees/drizzle
- Sat 10 October - 12.9 degrees/drizzle
- Sun 11 October - 12.6 degrees/drizzle
- Mon 12 October - 17.2 degrees/foggy
- Tue 13 October - 14.9 degrees/clear
Where is Königssee Circular Hike located?
Königssee Circular Hike is a trail located in Berchtesgaden National Park.
How hard is Königssee Circular Hike?
Königssee Circular Hike is considered a hard hike that covers 35.9 km, with an elevation gain of 2,536 m. It takes about 15.5–17 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 Königssee Circular Hike?
Königssee Circular Hike is considered a hard hike that covers 35.9 km, with an elevation gain of 2,536 m. It takes about 15.5–17 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Königssee Circular Hike a circular?
Königssee Circular Hike is a circular trail that covers 35.9 km, with an elevation gain of 2,536 m. It takes about 15.5–17 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 Königssee Circular Hike?
Königssee Circular Hike is a circular trail that covers 35.9 km, with an elevation gain of 2,536 m. It takes about 15.5–17 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 Königssee Circular Hike?
Dogs may be allowed on Königssee Circular Hike. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Königssee Circular Hike?
June to October is the most popular time of year to visit Königssee Circular Hike.
How busy is Königssee Circular Hike?
According to trailgoers, Königssee Circular Hike is usually somewhat busy. June to October is the most popular time of year to visit Königssee Circular Hike.
Are there scenic views at Königssee Circular Hike?
Yes, Weg zum Obersee is located on Königssee Circular Hike.
Are there waterfalls at Königssee Circular Hike?
Yes, Königssee Circular Hike has scenic views of Schrainbachfall and Landtalbach Wasserfall.
Are there forests at Königssee Circular Hike?
Yes, Königssee Circular Hike is a forest trail in Berchtesgaden National Park.
Are there wildflowers at Königssee Circular Hike?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Königssee Circular Hike, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Königssee Circular Hike?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Königssee Circular Hike in Berchtesgaden National Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 9 October 2026 at 01:46 GMT+0