Maximiliansweg Stage 18: Hochrieshaus - Sonnenalm

This route is stage 18 of the Maximiliansweg, a long-distance trail through Germany and Austria, beginning at the Hochrieshütte and ending at the Sonnenalm on the Kampenwand. The trail descends the forested slopes of the Hochries past the Riesenhütte and Hofalm before crossing the valley floor at Hohenaschau. From the valley, a steep and demanding ascent leads back up into the Chiemgau Alps, passing impressive limestone rock formations and open alpine pastures to reach the Kampenwand ridge. Overnight stays are accommodated at the Hochrieshütte at the start or in local mountain lodges like the Sonnenalm at the end; wild camping is strictly prohibited along this alpine ridge. Hikers must pack a reliable water filter to treat surface water from natural springs, as ridge sections are dry. Both trailheads are accessible via public transit networks, including regional buses in Aschau and the Kampenwand Cable Car, with route schedules available at https://www.bayerische-oberlandbahn.de. The Maximiliansweg is a long-distance trail from Lindau to Berchtesgaden, typically completed in 22 stages.