Maximiliansweg Stage 20: Hochgernhaus - Ruhpolding

This route is stage 20 of the Maximiliansweg, a long-distance trail through Germany, beginning at the Hochgernhaus and ending in Ruhpolding. The path climbs from the Hochgernhaus to the Hochgern summit, then descends through the alpine meadows of the Bischofsfellnalm and the forests of the Eschelmoos plane. It traverses the Weißgraben ravine up to a high ridge before making a steep ascent over rocky steps to the summit of the Hochfelln, concluding with a long descent via the Farnböden-Alm past alpine pastures into Ruhpolding. Overnight stays are accommodated at the Hochgernhaus or in guesthouses and hotels in Ruhpolding; wild camping is strictly prohibited in this protected mountain area. Hikers must pack a reliable water filter to treat surface water from natural springs, as ridge sections are dry. Both trailheads are accessible via public transit networks, including regional train connections at Ruhpolding station and local bus links, with schedules available at https://www.bayerische-oberlandbahn.de. Advanced reservations are required for the mountain lodge. The Maximiliansweg is a long-distance trail from Lindau to Berchtesgaden, typically completed in 22 stages.