King Ludwig Trail
100% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
78.5miLength
10,108ftElevation gain
24hr+Estimated time
Point to point
Varied long-distance hiking trail in Bavaria.
The King Ludwig Trail follows in the footsteps of the Bavarian fairytale king Ludwig II through beautiful alpine scenery. Varied paths connect the castles of Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein with Lake Starnberg, among others. The route mainly leads through rural Bavaria, with farms and forests and on different surfaces.
It also passes several castles that the king helped to build. The highlight of the hike is of course Neuschwanstein Castle, but there are beautiful monasteries, fairytale castles and historic churches to discover on every stage. The hiking sign is a blue "K" on a white background. Officially, the route is divided into 6 stages, which can be individually adapted.
Highlights:
- Votive chapel
- Andechs Monastery
- Carl Orff Museum Dießen
- Wessobrunn Monastery
- Lake Starnberg
- Hohenschwangau Castle
- Neuschwanstein Castle
- Wies Church
This text has been translated.
Data source: Bavarian Surveying Administration - https://www.geodaten.bayern.de
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Explore this 78.5-mile point-to-point trail near Berg, Bavaria. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 32 h 38 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are May through September.
What is the expected weather this week for King Ludwig Trail?
Expected weather for King Ludwig Trail for the next 5 days is:
- Mon, September 21 - 62 degrees/foggy
- Tue, September 22 - 65 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 63 degrees/showers
- Thu, September 24 - 64 degrees/showers
- Fri, September 25 - 71 degrees/clear
Where is King Ludwig Trail located?
King Ludwig Trail is a trail located in Berg, Bavaria, Germany.
How hard is King Ludwig Trail?
King Ludwig Trail is considered a hard hike that covers 78.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 10,108 ft. It takes about 24 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 King Ludwig Trail?
King Ludwig Trail is considered a hard hike that covers 78.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 10,108 ft. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is King Ludwig Trail a point to point trail?
King Ludwig Trail is a point to point trail that covers 78.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 10,108 ft. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Point-to-point routes have a different starting point and endpoint. The length of the trail refers to one-way travel on this route. Don't forget to plan for transportation when exploring point-to-point routes!
How long is King Ludwig Trail?
King Ludwig Trail is a point to point trail that covers 78.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 10,108 ft. It takes about 24 hr+ to complete. Point-to-point routes have a different starting point and endpoint. The length of the trail refers to one-way travel on this route. Don't forget to plan for transportation when exploring point-to-point routes!
Are dogs allowed on King Ludwig Trail?
Dogs may be allowed on King Ludwig Trail. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike King Ludwig Trail?
May to September is the most popular time of year to visit King Ludwig Trail.
How busy is King Ludwig Trail?
According to trailgoers, King Ludwig Trail is usually somewhat busy. May to September is the most popular time of year to visit King Ludwig Trail.
Is camping allowed at King Ludwig Trail?
Camping is allowed on King Ludwig Trail. 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 backpacking allowed at King Ludwig Trail?
Backpacking is allowed on King Ludwig Trail. 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.
Is King Ludwig Trail paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, King Ludwig Trail is partially paved.
Are there wildflowers at King Ludwig Trail?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on King Ludwig Trail, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Last updated on September 20, 2026 at 3:39 am GMT+0