Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee
64% of reviewers say this trail is moderate
4.2miLength
1,072ftElevation gain
Out & back
Beautiful hike from Sankt Bartholomä to the Eiskapelle in the Berchtesgaden Alps, Bavaria.
The Ice Chapel is located below the Watzmann East Face and is the lowest-lying permanent ice field in the German Alps. The summer snow line is actually 2000m higher, but the firn ice field remains frozen here all year round. On the one hand, this has to do with the enormous snow masses from winter and spring, but also with the spacious cavity in which the ice field is located - the ice chapel.
In order to reach the starting point of the hike in St. Bartholomä, a crossing by boat across the Königssee is necessary (note the boat schedule and prices). Passing the national park information point, it goes to the chapel of St. John and St. Paul. From there the path becomes steeper and leads through the forest for a while until it meets the mighty Watzmann east face.
Sometimes the path is rocky. Sturdy shoes and sure-footedness are recommended.
Danger! When there is snow, the cave is often inaccessible and there is a risk of avalanches.
Highlights of the hike:
- Sankt Bartholomä am Koenigssee
- Ice chapel at Königssee
- Beautiful alpine panorama
This text has been translated.
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Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Head out on this 4.2-mile out-and-back trail near Schönau am Königsee, Bavaria. Generally considered a moderately challenging route. 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 April through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
Expected weather for Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee for the next 5 days is:
- Thu, September 24 - 60 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 67 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 73 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 75 degrees/clear
- Mon, September 28 - 75 degrees/clear
Where is Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee located?
Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee is a trail located in Berchtesgaden National Park.
Are dogs allowed on Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
Dogs may be allowed on Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee.
How busy is Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
According to trailgoers, Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee is usually very busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee.
Are there lakes at Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
Yes, Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee is near Königssee.
Are there forests at Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
Yes, Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee is a forest trail in Berchtesgaden National Park.
Is there a fee required at Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee?
Yes, a fee is required at Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee. Check local park resources for more information.
Does Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee include a scramble?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee includes scrambling. The trail may include boulders or other large obstacles to climb over. Watch your footing and wear footwear with good traction.
Is Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee rocky?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Sankt Bartholomä - Ice Chapel at Königssee includes rocky terrain. Watch your footing and wear footwear with good traction.
Last updated on September 24, 2026 at 5:15 am GMT+0