Heimgarten & Herzogstand

It’s one of the most beautiful hikes in Bavaria. The ridge between Heimgarten and Herzogstand offers amazing views of Walchensee and Kochelsee. In sunny hot days, don’t forget to take a dip in Walchensee. 

The hike is technically easy, except few sections in the ridge. Those sections are secured with the rope for safety. 

Trip Profile

Grade
Medium - T3
Duration
7 Hours
Length
13,6 KM
Altitude difference
1216 m
Max Altitude
1790 m
Start
Walchensee
End
Walchensee
accomodation
on request
meals
on request
season
MAY - Oct

Overview

The hike from Walchensee to Heimgarten (1790m) and then via a beautiful ridge to Herzogstand (1731m) is a real classic in the foothills of the Alps.

The view is superb, the trail very beautiful and varied – never really difficult – and at the summit of the Heimgarten (Heimgartenhütte) and a little below the Herzogstand (Berggasthaus Herzogstand), two beautiful, panoramic huts await the accomplished hiker.

The descent is quick on a good path, or easy on the knees with the Herzogstand cable car. This is one of the most beautiful route up the well-known – and highly frequented – classic in the Alps.

Directions

By public transport:

Take the train from Munich Central Station to Kochel (the last station), and then take the bus towards Walchensee Seestüberl, Kochel a. See. The starting point of the hike is bus stop: Walchensee Herzogstandbahn, Kochel a. See. The cheapest way is to by Bavern ticket which is also valid in the bus. The hike ends in Urfeld, you can take the bus towards Kochel from there. 

By car:

Address for your sat nav: Navigation address: Am Tanneneck 6, 82432 Walchensee
Short description from Munich: Motorway 95 direction Garmisch – exit Murnau/ Kochel – Kochel am See – Urfeld – Walchensee. There, at the entrance to the village, a large car park is on the right (subject to a charge).

Equipment Information

Mandatory:
  • hiking shoes;
  • hiking clothes;
  • rucksack;
  • food and water;
Optional:
  • hiking poles;
  • sun screen, sun glasses;
  • rain clothes according to the latest weather forecast;
  • first aid kit.

Gallery