Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm
100% of reviewers say this trail is strenuous
12.3miLength
3,795ftElevation gain
6.5–7hrEstimated time
Point to point
This route is stage 21 of the Maximiliansweg, a long-distance trail through Germany and Austria, beginning in Ruhpolding and ending at the Zwieselalm. The path departs the biathlon town of Ruhpolding, passing historic museums and a sixteenth-century hunting lodge before heading east through scenic mountain terrain toward the resort town of Inzell. It then ascends steeply into the Staufen mountain massif, climbing forested slopes to reach the alpine pasture surroundings of the Zwieselalm lodge. Overnight stays happen at the Zwieselalm alpine hut, and wild camping is strictly prohibited along this mountain segment. Hikers must pack a reliable water filter to treat surface water from natural springs between valleys. Both trailheads are accessible via public transit networks, including regional trains at Ruhpolding station and local bus connections, with schedules available at https://www.bayerische-oberlandbahn.de. Advanced reservations are required for the mountain lodge. The Maximiliansweg is a long-distance trail from Lindau to Berchtesgaden, typically completed in 22 stages.
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Part of a multi-day route
Maximiliansweg
Top sights
Urschlauer Achen
River
Angerstein
Peak
Jagdschloss Ruhpolding
Castle
Weiße Traun
River
Auer Berg
Peak
Zehnerstein
Peak
Wohnmobil-Kurzzeitstellplatz
Caravan site
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Check out this 12.3-mile point-to-point trail near Ruhpolding, Bavaria. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 17 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are June through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm?
Expected weather for Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm for the next 5 days is:
- Sat, September 19 - 73 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 20 - 62 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 21 - 61 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 22 - 62 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 69 degrees/foggy
Where is Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm located?
Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm is a trail located in Ruhpolding, Bavaria, Germany.
How hard is Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm?
Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm is considered a hard hike that covers 12.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,795 ft. It takes about 6.5–7 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 Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm?
Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm is considered a hard hike that covers 12.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,795 ft. It takes about 6.5–7 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm a point to point trail?
Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm is a point to point trail that covers 12.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,795 ft. It takes about 6.5–7 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 Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm?
Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm is a point to point trail that covers 12.3 mi, with an elevation gain of 3,795 ft. It takes about 6.5–7 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 Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm?
Dogs may be allowed on Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm?
June to October is the most popular time of year to visit Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm.
How busy is Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm?
According to trailgoers, Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm is usually somewhat busy. June to October is the most popular time of year to visit Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm.
Are there rivers at Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm?
Yes, Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm is near Urschlauer Achen and Weiße Traun.
Is backpacking allowed at Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm?
Backpacking is allowed on Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm. 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 Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm is partially paved.
Are there forests at Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm?
Yes, Maximiliansweg Stage 21: Ruhpolding - Zwieselalm is a forest trail.
Last updated on September 17, 2026 at 4:02 am GMT+0