Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen
16.7miLength
6,692ftElevation gain
12–13hrEstimated time
Point to point
Challenging ridge crossings and a massive vertical ascent characterize this high alpine tour in the Estergebirge. The tour begins with a relentless ascent from Oberau via the steep Oberauer Steig, with narrow, exposed paths requiring a steady hand and absolute surefootedness. The Krottenkopf is the highest peak in the Bavarian Pre-Alps and offers a legendary 360-degree panorama that stretches from the Zugspitze to the Karwendel. Just below the summit is the Weilheimer Hütte, the highest Alpine Club hut in the region, which was built by the DAV Weilheim section as a memorial to their fallen comrades. Historically, the nearby Wank was known as the "Eckenberg" and has served as an important meteorological observation point since 1982. This route is a test of endurance through rugged limestone terrain and high alpine mats, suitable only for experienced mountaineers with the necessary stamina for a long day on the sunny balcony of the Bavarian Alps.
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Top sights
Wank
Peak
Eckenberg
Peak
Wank-Haus
Alpine hut
Das Haus zum Oberlaras
Attraction
Naturkino
Viewpoint
Krottenkopf
Peak
Ameisberg
Peak
Wankröhre
Cave
Henneneck
Peak
Kareck
Peak
Oberer Rißkopf
Peak
Bischof
Peak
Weilheimer Hütte
Alpine hut
Niederer Fricken
Peak
Popular times
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 16.7-mile point-to-point trail near Oberau, Bavaria. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 11 h 46 min to complete. This trail is great for backpacking and hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through September.
What is the expected weather this week for Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen?
Expected weather for Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen for the next 5 days is:
- Wed, September 23 - 67 degrees/showers
- Thu, September 24 - 64 degrees/foggy
- Fri, September 25 - 72 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 76 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 80 degrees/clear
Where is Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen located?
Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a trail located in Oberau, Bavaria, Germany.
How hard is Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen?
Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen is considered a hard hike that covers 16.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 6,692 ft. It takes about 12–13 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 Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen?
Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen is considered a hard hike that covers 16.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 6,692 ft. It takes about 12–13 hr to complete. Hard trails usually cover longer distances, and may have long or steep climbs or more difficult obstacles.
Is Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen a point to point trail?
Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a point to point trail that covers 16.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 6,692 ft. It takes about 12–13 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 Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen?
Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a point to point trail that covers 16.7 mi, with an elevation gain of 6,692 ft. It takes about 12–13 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 Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen?
Dogs may be allowed on Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen?
May to September is the most popular time of year to visit Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
How busy is Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen?
According to trailgoers, Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen is usually not too busy. May to September is the most popular time of year to visit Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
Are there scenic views at Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen?
Yes, Naturkino is located on Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
Is backpacking allowed at Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen?
Backpacking is allowed on Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen. 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 Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen?
Yes, Oberau - Krottenkopf - Wank - Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a forest trail.
Last updated on September 23, 2026 at 1:10 am GMT+0