Discover winter hikes in the Berchtesgaden region: The most beautiful routes for every ability

Winter in Bavaria has arrived – and with it, the perfect opportunity to discover the Berchtesgaden region's tranquil, glittering side. Away from the ski slopes, cleared winter hiking trails, snow-covered alpine pastures, and icy panoramic paths beckon hikers into nature. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll for the family, an easy winter hike, or a challenging snowshoe tour, this guide will show you the best tours in the winter wonderland around the Watzmann, Königssee, and other peaks. You'll find detailed information on duration, elevation gain, equipment, and highlights – including tours like the hike to the Mordaualm, the Ramsau Panorama Trail, and the snowshoe route to the Mooslahnerkopf. Plan your winter day flexibly, safely, and unforgettable.

• Top winter hikes in the Berchtesgaden region, sorted by difficulty level
• Family-friendly winter hiking trails for young and old
• Snowshoeing in the deep snow of Berchtesgaden
• Equipment & Safety: How to hike safely in winter
• Comparison of the most popular winter hikes
• Avoid mistakes & pro tips from the hiking expert
• FAQ – Winter hiking in the Berchtesgaden region
• Conclusion: Your winter experience between Watzmann & Königssee

Top winter hikes in the Berchtesgaden region, sorted by difficulty level

Easy winter hikes for beginners

Do you want to hike at a leisurely pace through snowy landscapes and enjoy the crisp winter air? Then the winter hike around Hintersee is perfect. The circular route starts at the Hintersee parking lot in Ramsau, takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, and is almost entirely flat with only 50–100 meters of elevation gain. The Malereck viewpoint and the frozen lake, with views of the Reiter Alpe and the Blaueis glacier, are particularly impressive.

Another easy hike for beginners is the winter walk to the pilgrimage church of Maria Gern . It starts in the center of Berchtesgaden, leads uphill for 120 meters along cleared paths, and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. The view of the snow-covered Watzmann mountain is spectacular. Those who want a circular route can walk back to the center via the church square.

Moderate routes: For ambitious winter hikers

The winter hike to the Mordaualm starts at the Taubensee parking lot near Ramsau and takes you in about 2.5 hours (round trip) to a picturesque alpine pasture below the Reiter Alm. With an elevation gain of approximately 300 meters, it's suitable for those with a good level of fitness. The expansive, snow-covered alpine meadows are particularly beautiful – clear views are guaranteed when the sun is shining.

Another highlight is the winter hike to the Hirschbichl . Starting from the Klausbachtal parking lot in Berchtesgaden National Park, the moderately difficult trail climbs 200–300 meters through a tranquil winter landscape. Halfway along the route, you can observe wildlife feeding before taking a break at the Klausbachhaus mountain hut, which offers views of the Loferer Steinberge mountains. The entire hike takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

Challenging tours for experienced hikers and snowshoe enthusiasts

The Dötzenkopf rises above Bad Reichenhall and offers a scenic but challenging winter hike. From the starting point in Nonn, you'll ascend 430–500 meters in altitude – depending on the route and trail conditions. With a hiking time of around 2.5 to 3 hours, it's relatively short, but requires sure-footedness and often crampons or ice axes, as the trail is not cleared. The view of the Saalachtal valley is spectacular.

The Mooslahnerkopf winter hike offers a truly alpine experience. Starting from the Hammerstiel parking lot near Schönau, the trail climbs 500-600 meters in altitude over a distance of approximately 3 to 4 hours. The route is not cleared and often leads through deep snow – snowshoes are highly recommended. You'll be rewarded with a serene summit moment and a direct view of the Watzmann.

tour	difficulty	Length of time	Elevation gain	region
Hintersee	Light	1–1.5h	50–100	Ramsau
Maria Gern	Light	1.5–2h	120	Berchtesgaden
Mordaualm	Medium	2.5 hours	300	Lattengebirge
Dötzenkopf	Difficult	2.5–3 hours	430–500	Bad Reichenhall
Mooslahnerkopf	Difficult	3–4h	500–600	Watzmann area

Family-friendly winter hiking trails for young and old

Hiking with children: What should you pay attention to?

For families with children, winter hikes should be short, safe, and offer opportunities to play along the way. Long trails with gentle inclines and varied viewpoints are ideal.

Recommendations for stroller-friendly routes

A classic is the Ramsau Panorama Trail . It starts at St. Sebastian Church and leads along the Ramsau high bank in about 1–1.5 hours, climbing approximately 50–80 meters in altitude. Thanks to the cleared paths, it is also easily manageable with a stroller – including views of the Watzmann massif and the famous postcard motif.

The winter hike around Hintersee is also very popular. Besides the stunning natural scenery, you can also enjoy ice skating on the lake (depending on the ice conditions) and stop for refreshments in a warm hut. The short circular route is perfect for younger children.

More secluded, but just as peaceful, is the hike from Bischofswiesen to Stanggaß . From the train station, the trail takes about 1.5–2 hours and climbs 80–120 meters to a viewpoint overlooking the Schellenberger Ice Cave and the Untersberg mountain. Ideal for little explorers!

• Ramsau Panorama Trail – an easy route with a great view of the Watzmann mountain
• Hintersee – short circular route including Malereck & ice skating area
• Bischofswiesen – Stanggaß – secluded & quiet, ideal for little adventurers

Snowshoeing in the deep snow of Berchtesgaden

What is snowshoeing?

Snowshoeing allows you to safely traverse even unplowed paths. The wide soles prevent sinking into deep snow – perfect for trails like those leading to the Mooslahnerkopf or the Eiskapelle.

Top tours with snowshoe recommendations

• Mooslahnerkopf – from Hammerstiel via unplowed paths with an elevation gain of 500–600 meters. Solitary summit with views of the Watzmann, allow 3–4 hours.
• Ice Chapel – challenging winter route from St. Bartholomä (accessible when ice is firm enough), 150 meters of elevation gain in 2–2.5 hours. Only for experienced hikers and with crampons/snowshoes!
• Hirschbichl – snowshoes are recommended when there is a lot of snow. The areas behind the wildlife feeding station, in particular, can be deeply snow-covered.

Guided tours & tips for beginners

Tip for beginners: Book a guided snowshoe tour in Berchtesgaden National Park – for example, to Hirschbichl. This way you'll learn technique, avalanche awareness, and be provided with the right equipment.

Equipment & Safety: How to hike safely in winter

Must-have winter equipment

• Waterproof winter hiking boots with good tread
• Hiking poles with snow baskets
• Multiple layers of clothing, following the onion principle
• Spikes or crampons are indispensable on ice
• Thermos flask & snacks
• Gaiters for deep snow

Safety tips for cold days

• Start early – the days are short
• Check the weather and avalanche report
• Only use marked and cleared paths
• Never travel alone

Apps and maps for orientation

Download offline maps like Komoot or Outdooractive. Orientation and GPS can be essential, especially on tours to the Ice Chapel or Mooslahnerkopf.

Comparison of the most popular winter hikes

tour	difficulty	Elevation gain	Length of time	Winter service	Recommended equipment	Outlook	Guided tour available
Hintersee	Light	50–100	1–1.5h	Yes	winter shoes	Reiter Alpe	No
Maria Gern	Light	120	1.5–2h	Yes	winter shoes	Watzmann	No
Hirschbichl	Medium	200–300	2.5–3 hours	Partially	snowshoes	Loferer Steinberge	Yes
Ice Chapel	Medium	150	2–2.5h	No	Spikes / Snowshoes	Watzmann East Face	No
Dötzenkopf	Difficult	430–500	2.5–3 hours	No	Crampons required	Saalachtal	No
Mooslahnerkopf	Difficult	500–600	3–4h	No	snowshoes	Watzmann	No

Avoid mistakes & pro tips from the hiking expert

Common mistakes when winter hiking

• Starting on ice without spikes – risk of accidents!
• Taking shortcuts across uncleared paths
• Underestimating darkness – starting too late

Expert tips for a safe experience

• Take a paper map with you – your mobile phone battery might fail.
• Apply sunscreen – even when it's snowing.
• Warm up your shoes for half an hour before setting off.

FAQ – Winter hiking in the Berchtesgaden region

When is the best time for winter hikes in the Berchtesgaden region?

The best conditions usually prevail from the end of December to mid-February. The snow cover is then generally stable enough – ideal, for example, for the Ramsau panoramic trail or the ascent to the Mordaualm.

Can I do every tour in the area with snowshoes?

No – for example, the circular trail at Hintersee is cleared, so snowshoes are unnecessary there. However, they are highly recommended for uncleared routes such as those to the Ice Chapel or the Mooslahnerkopf.

Are there any tours with places to stop for refreshments?

Yes, for example, several inns invite you to stop by at Hintersee. The Klausbachhaus at Hirschbichl also occasionally offers hot soup – be sure to check beforehand.

Is the path to the ice chapel always accessible in winter?

No. Access is only possible via the frozen Königssee (starting at St. Bartholomä). If the ice is unsafe, the area must not be entered for safety reasons.

Which hikes are suitable for strollers?

The Ramsau panoramic trail and part of the path around the Hintersee are particularly suitable – both paths are flat and easily walkable when the snow is firm.

Conclusion: Your winter experience between Watzmann & Königssee

Whether a leisurely stroll around the tranquil Hintersee lake, a family outing to the ice cave viewpoint in Stanggaß, or an alpine snowshoe tour to the Mooslahnerkopf summit: the Berchtesgaden region in winter has something for everyone. With a little planning, good equipment, and respect for nature, your winter hike will be an unforgettable experience. So get out into the crisp mountain air – the Watzmann mountain awaits, blanketed in its white splendor!

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