Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf
100% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
10miLength
2,568ftElevation gain
6–6.5hrEstimated time
Loop
Popular loop in Berchtesgadener Land, Bavaria
This hike inspires with varied landscapes - river, lake, forest, and steep ascent to the Brandkopf. In addition, it is rich in magnificent views and first leads along the Ache toward Königssee. From there, the route follows the northeastern foothills of the Berchtesgaden National Park up into the forest and once around the Hinterer Brandkopf and Vorderer Brandkopf. From up here, in particular, there are truly fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and the valley basin. On the way down the mountain, the route runs on asphalt for a few kilometers. This loop is a popular destination for hikers at any time of the year.
The hike is accessible by bus and train (start: Berchtesgaden train station, alternative starting point: Hinterbrand parking lot in Schönau am Königssee). There are refreshment stops.
Highlights of the hike:
- Boat landing stage at Königssee
- Viewpoint Malerwinkel at Königssee
- View of the Watzmann
- Waterfall
- Schönau at the Königssee
- Gasthof Vorderbrand at the Vorderer Brandkopf
This text has been translated.
Top sights
Ramsauer Ache
River
Malerwinkel
Viewpoint
Königsseer Ache
River
Königssee
Lake
Wohnmobilstellplatz Großparkplatz Königssee
Caravan site
Grafenlehen
Campsite
Hinterer Brandkopf
Peak
Camping Mühlleiten
Campsite
Wald Seilgarten
Attraction
Berchtesgadener Ache
River
Die Nasse Wand
Cliff
Vorderer Brandkopf
Peak
Pegel Schwöber
Attraction
Top sights
Ramsauer Ache
River
Malerwinkel
Viewpoint
Königsseer Ache
River
Königssee
Lake
Wohnmobilstellplatz Großparkplatz Königssee
Caravan site
Grafenlehen
Campsite
Hinterer Brandkopf
Peak
Camping Mühlleiten
Campsite
Wald Seilgarten
Attraction
Berchtesgadener Ache
River
Die Nasse Wand
Cliff
Vorderer Brandkopf
Peak
Pegel Schwöber
Attraction
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
Beat the crowds with weekly and monthly trail activity data from our community
Adventure starts in the app
Offline maps, navigation, and conditions — all in one place
Top trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Explore this 10.0-mile loop trail near Berchtesgaden, Bavaria. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 35 min to complete. This is a very popular area for camping and 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 Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
Expected weather for Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf for the next 5 days is:
- Mon, September 21 - 53 degrees/drizzle
- Tue, September 22 - 58 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 63 degrees/showers
- Thu, September 24 - 57 degrees/showers
- Fri, September 25 - 69 degrees/clear
Where is Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf located?
Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf is a trail located in Biosphärenregion Berchtesgadener Land.
How hard is Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf is considered a hard hike that covers 10 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,568 ft. It takes about 6–6.5 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 Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf is considered a hard hike that covers 10 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,568 ft. It takes about 6–6.5 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf a loop?
Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf is a loop trail that covers 10 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,568 ft. It takes about 6–6.5 hr to complete. Loop trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
How long is Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf is a loop trail that covers 10 mi, with an elevation gain of 2,568 ft. It takes about 6–6.5 hr to complete. Loop trails have the same starting point and endpoint. You'll follow a single route without retracing your steps.
Are dogs allowed on Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
Dogs may be allowed on Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf.
How busy is Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
According to trailgoers, Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf is usually busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf.
Are there rivers at Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
Yes, Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf is near Ramsauer Ache, Königsseer Ache, and Berchtesgadener Ache.
Are there scenic views at Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
Yes, Malerwinkel is located on Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf.
Are there lakes at Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
Yes, Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf is near Königssee.
Is camping allowed at Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
Camping is allowed on Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf in Biosphärenregion Berchtesgadener Land. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Is Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf is partially paved.
Are there forests at Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
Yes, Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf is a forest trail in Biosphärenregion Berchtesgadener Land.
Are there wildflowers at Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Berchtesgaden - Königssee - Brandkopf, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on September 19, 2026 at 10:17 pm GMT+0