Rachel Circular Route
80% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
11.4kmLength
559mElevation gain
4–4.5hrEstimated time
Circular
Picturesque circular route on the Großer Rachel in the Bavarian Forest near Spiegelau.
This idyllic circular route starts at the P+R hiking car park in Spiegelau and leads through rustic forests, across the legendary Rachelsee and past impressive rock formations up to the highest mountain in the Bavarian Forest National Park - the Großer Rachel (1,453 m). The Ice Age educational trail leads through the forests that were largely destroyed by the bark beetle, where a new, wild mixed forest is emerging. The managed Racheldiensthütte or the Waldschmidthaus invite you to stop and have a snack.
Highlights:
- Beautiful views
- Local flora and fauna
- Ice Age trail
- Rachelsee
- Rachel Chapel above the Rachelseewand
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Top sights
Rachelsee
Lake
Großer Rachel
Peak
Bergwacht-Hütte
Hut
Seeblick
Viewpoint
Lieselbrunn
Spring
Schutzhütte Rachelsee
Weather shelter
Schuhnagelkopf
Peak
Feistenberg Schutzhütte
Weather shelter
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Get to know this 11.4-km circular trail near Spiegelau, Bavaria. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 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 March through November.
What is the expected weather this week for Rachel Circular Route?
Expected weather for Rachel Circular Route for the next 5 days is:
- Sun 20 September - 11.8 degrees/drizzle
- Mon 21 September - 12.6 degrees/clear
- Tue 22 September - 14.3 degrees/clear
- Wed 23 September - 14.4 degrees/drizzle
- Thu 24 September - 15.1 degrees/clear
Where is Rachel Circular Route located?
Rachel Circular Route is a trail located in Bavarian Forest National Park.
How hard is Rachel Circular Route?
Rachel Circular Route is considered a moderate hike that covers 11.4 km, with an elevation gain of 559 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Rachel Circular Route?
Rachel Circular Route is considered a moderate hike that covers 11.4 km, with an elevation gain of 559 m. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Rachel Circular Route a circular?
Rachel Circular Route is a circular trail that covers 11.4 km, with an elevation gain of 559 m. It takes about 4–4.5 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 Rachel Circular Route?
Rachel Circular Route is a circular trail that covers 11.4 km, with an elevation gain of 559 m. It takes about 4–4.5 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 Rachel Circular Route?
Dogs may be allowed on Rachel Circular Route. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Rachel Circular Route?
March to November is the most popular time of year to visit Rachel Circular Route.
How busy is Rachel Circular Route?
According to trailgoers, Rachel Circular Route is usually busy. March to November is the most popular time of year to visit Rachel Circular Route.
Are there lakes at Rachel Circular Route?
Yes, Rachel Circular Route is near Rachelsee.
Are there scenic views at Rachel Circular Route?
Yes, Seeblick is located on Rachel Circular Route.
Are there forests at Rachel Circular Route?
Yes, Rachel Circular Route is a forest trail in Bavarian Forest National Park.
Are there wildflowers at Rachel Circular Route?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Rachel Circular Route, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Rachel Circular Route?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Rachel Circular Route in Bavarian Forest National Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on 14 September 2026 at 23:57 GMT+0