Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee
64% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
6.8kmLength
327mElevation gain
Out-and-back
Wonderful hike from Sankt Bartholomä to the Ice Chapel in the Berchtesgaden Alps, Bavaria.
The ice chapel is located below the east face of the Watzmann and is the lowest permanent ice field in the German Alps. The summer snow line is actually 2000 metres higher, yet the firn ice field here remains frozen all year round. This is partly due to the enormous masses of snow from winter and spring, but also to the spacious cavity in which the ice field is located - the ice chapel.
To reach the starting point of the hike in St. Bartholomä, it is necessary to cross the Königssee by boat (check the boat timetable and prices). Pass the national park information centre and continue to the chapel of St. John and Paul. From here, the path becomes steeper and leads through the forest until it meets the mighty Watzmann east face.
The path is stony in places. Sturdy shoes and surefootedness are recommended.
Caution! The cave is often inaccessible when there is snow and there may be a risk of avalanches.
Highlights of the hike:
- Sankt Bartholomä am Königssee
- Ice chapel at Königssee
- Wonderful alpine panorama
This text has been translated.
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 6.8-km out-and-back trail near Schönau am Königsee, Bavaria. Generally considered a moderately challenging route. 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 April through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
Expected weather for Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee for the next 5 days is:
- Sat 26 September - 24.6 degrees/clear
- Sun 27 September - 25.6 degrees/clear
- Mon 28 September - 25.8 degrees/clear
- Tue 29 September - 24.7 degrees/clear
- Wed 30 September - 24.2 degrees/drizzle
Where is Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee located?
Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee is a trail located in Berchtesgaden National Park.
Are dogs allowed on Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
Dogs may be allowed on Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee.
How busy is Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
According to trailgoers, Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee is usually very busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee.
Are there lakes at Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
Yes, Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee is near Königssee.
Are there forests at Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
Yes, Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee is a forest trail in Berchtesgaden National Park.
Is there a fee required at Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
Yes, a fee is required at Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee. Check local park resources for more information.
Does Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee include a scramble?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee includes scrambling. The trail may include boulders or other large obstacles to climb over. Watch your footing and wear footwear with good traction.
Is Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee rocky?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee includes rocky terrain. Watch your footing and wear footwear with good traction.
Last updated on 26 September 2026 at 14:04 GMT+0