Höllental Loop
56% of reviewers say this trail is hard
10.9miLength
3,937ftElevation gain
7.5–8hrEstimated time
Loop
Exciting circular hiking trail in the Franconian Forest, Bavaria.
This hike in the district of Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a real excursion into nature. This moderate to difficult circular tour begins and ends at the Kreuzeckbahn valley station (Garmisch Partenkirchen). Alternatively, you can also start at the Hammersbach car park, which shortens the route. In addition to the magnificent views along the route, you will also pass an exciting gorge, the "Klamm", which is subject to a fee. It is advisable to wear a rain jacket in the gorge. Adventurers get their money's worth on this hike - through the rocks, along bodies of water and across wide flower meadows, everything is on offer here.
The best season for this hike is from Pentecost to mid-October.
If you want to save yourself the steep descent, you can take the Kreuzeckbahn down from the Kreuzeckhaus.
Highlights of the hike:
- King David Viewpoint
- Hellspring
- Hydroelectric power station Höllenthal with its water fountain
This text has been translated.
Phone: +49 8821 9818 50
Email: info@grainau.de
Top sights
Höllentalklamm
Gorge
Sauwankl
Peak
Höllentaleingangshütte
Alpine hut
Kreuzeck
Peak
Höllentalangerhütte
Alpine hut
Trögelhütte
Hut
Kreuzeckhaus
Alpine hut
Schwarzenkopf
Peak
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 10.9-mile loop trail near Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Bavaria. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 7 h 17 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through October.
What are some of the facilities available for Höllental Loop?
There is a chargeable car park at the valley station of the Kreuzeckbahn, which is a good starting point for this hike. Alternatively, you can also start at the Hammersbach car park, which shortens the route.
There are several mountain huts along the route that offer refreshment stops.
What are some tips to share about Höllental Loop?
The best season for this hike is from Pentecost to mid-October.
It is advisable to wear a rain jacket in the gorge. Even on hot summer days it is very cool here.
Instead of walking the steep descent on foot, you can also take the Kreuzeckbahn from the Kreuzeckhaus back to the starting point.
What is the expected weather this week for Höllental Loop?
Expected weather for Höllental Loop for the next 5 days is:
- Sun, September 20 - 60 degrees/drizzle
- Mon, September 21 - 62 degrees/foggy
- Tue, September 22 - 69 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 68 degrees/drizzle
- Thu, September 24 - 67 degrees/foggy
Where is Höllental Loop located?
Höllental Loop is a trail located in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Bavaria, Germany.
How hard is Höllental Loop?
Höllental Loop is considered a hard hike that covers 10.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,937 ft. It takes about 7.5–8 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 Höllental Loop?
Höllental Loop is considered a hard hike that covers 10.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,937 ft. It takes about 7.5–8 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Höllental Loop a loop?
Höllental Loop is a loop trail that covers 10.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,937 ft. It takes about 7.5–8 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 Höllental Loop?
Höllental Loop is a loop trail that covers 10.9 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,937 ft. It takes about 7.5–8 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 Höllental Loop?
Dogs may be allowed on Höllental Loop. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Höllental Loop?
May to October is the most popular time of year to visit Höllental Loop.
How busy is Höllental Loop?
According to trailgoers, Höllental Loop is usually very busy. May to October is the most popular time of year to visit Höllental Loop.
Is backpacking allowed at Höllental Loop?
Backpacking is allowed on Höllental Loop. Backpacking trails are typically longer and are often point-to-point trails. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Are there forests at Höllental Loop?
Yes, Höllental Loop is a forest trail.
Is there wildlife at Höllental Loop?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Höllental Loop. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Is there a fee required at Höllental Loop?
Yes, a fee is required at Höllental Loop. Check local park resources for more information.
Last updated on September 19, 2026 at 11:19 pm GMT+0