Rachel Loop
80% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
7.1miLength
1,833ftElevation gain
4–4.5hrEstimated time
Loop
Picturesque loop on the Großer Rachel in the Bavarian Forest near Spiegelau.
This idyllic loop starts at the P+R hiking car park in Spiegelau. It leads through rustic forests, across the legendary Rachelsee, and past impressive rock formations up to the highest mountain in the Bavarian Forest National Park - the Großer Rachel (1,453 m). The Ice Age educational trail leads through the forests largely destroyed by the bark beetle, where a new, wild mixed forest emerges. The managed Racheldiensthütte or the Waldschmidthaus invite you to stop and have a snack.
Highlights:
- Beautiful views
- Local flora and fauna
- Ice Age trail
- Rachel see
- Rachel Chapel above the Rachelseewand
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Top sights
Rachelsee
Lake
Großer Rachel
Peak
Bergwacht-Hütte
Hut
Seeblick
Viewpoint
Lieselbrunn
Spring
Schutzhütte Rachelsee
Weather shelter
Schuhnagelkopf
Peak
Feistenberg Schutzhütte
Weather shelter
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Get to know this 7.1-mile loop trail near Spiegelau, Bavaria. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 57 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are March through November.
What is the expected weather this week for Rachel Loop?
Expected weather for Rachel Loop for the next 5 days is:
- Sat, September 19 - 65 degrees/drizzle
- Sun, September 20 - 57 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 21 - 57 degrees/clear
- Tue, September 22 - 61 degrees/clear
- Wed, September 23 - 62 degrees/clear
Where is Rachel Loop located?
Rachel Loop is a trail located in Bavarian Forest National Park.
How hard is Rachel Loop?
Rachel Loop is considered a moderate hike that covers 7.1 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,833 ft. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Rachel Loop?
Rachel Loop is considered a moderate hike that covers 7.1 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,833 ft. It takes about 4–4.5 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Rachel Loop a loop?
Rachel Loop is a loop trail that covers 7.1 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,833 ft. It takes about 4–4.5 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 Rachel Loop?
Rachel Loop is a loop trail that covers 7.1 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,833 ft. It takes about 4–4.5 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 Rachel Loop?
Dogs may be allowed on Rachel Loop. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Rachel Loop?
March to November is the most popular time of year to visit Rachel Loop.
How busy is Rachel Loop?
According to trailgoers, Rachel Loop is usually busy. March to November is the most popular time of year to visit Rachel Loop.
Are there lakes at Rachel Loop?
Yes, Rachel Loop is near Rachelsee.
Are there scenic views at Rachel Loop?
Yes, Seeblick is located on Rachel Loop.
Are there forests at Rachel Loop?
Yes, Rachel Loop is a forest trail in Bavarian Forest National Park.
Are there wildflowers at Rachel Loop?
Yes, trailgoers have reported a variety of wildflower types on Rachel Loop, though the specific types can vary from month to month.
Is there wildlife at Rachel Loop?
Yes, many trailgoers have spotted wildlife at Rachel Loop in Bavarian Forest National Park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Last updated on September 14, 2026 at 11:57 pm GMT+0