Hike to Zugspitze via Gatterl
- Condition: Requires average fitness
- Dificulty: Challenging – Narrower paths, possibly rocky or uneven
- Duration: 6-8 hours
- Language: English
- Price: 90,00 Euro / person
The Zugspitze via Gatterl is a breathtaking alpine trail that begins in Ehrwald, Austria, offering a mix of natural beauty and adventure.
As you ascend, the trail crosses the border between Austria and Germany, providing stunning views of the Wetterstein mountains and surrounding landscapes.
The challenging climb culminates at the summit of Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak at 2,962 meters, rewarding hikers with panoramic views stretching across four countries.
Ready for fresh air and new friends? Sign up today!
Trip Profile
Grade
Medium - T4
Duration
6-8 Hours
Length
11 KM
Altitude difference
1200 m
Max Altitude
2962 m
Start
Ehrwald
End
Ehrwald
accomodation
on request
meals
on request
season
jul - sept
Participants' Reviews
I just wanted to say thank you for the amazing hiking experience! Your guidance and local knowledge made the whole trip feel safe, enjoyable, and enriching. Looking forward to joining more of your hikes in the future!
Anil Kulan
Turkey
Our snowy hike with Cosmin was an absolute joy. He's not only a funny and friendly person, but also an experienced hiker, with whom I felt super safe with. I can nothing but recommend him as a guide!
Johanna Schmitt
Germany
Cosmin takes care of every member in the group, never leaving anyone behind. Apart from the great organizational and technical skills, Cosmin knows how to create an enjoyable and easy-going atmosphere which is one of the best parts
Dushica Milosavljevikj
North Macedonia
Cosmin was once again an exceptional organizer. He took care of every detail, chose a route suitable for the season, motivated us throughout the hike, and created a positive vibe that made us feel safe and enjoy the day to the fullest.
Cristina Gheorghe
Romania
Overview for the hike to Zugspitze via Gatterl
The Zugspitze via Gatterl is a captivating alpine hike that takes you from the charming village of Ehrwald in Austria to the highest point in Germany, Zugspitze, standing at 2,962 meters. The trail begins through meadows and alpine forests, gradually gaining elevation as you move towards the Feldernalm and Hochfeldernalm huts. As you progress, the scenery transforms, revealing rugged mountain terrain and offering incredible views of the surrounding peaks.
One of the highlights of this hike is the Gatterl, a small gate that marks the border between Austria and Germany. From here, the path becomes steeper and more challenging, leading you across rocky slopes and past impressive rock faces. The route continues towards the Knorrhütte, a popular resting spot that offers a warm meal and a chance to soak in the alpine atmosphere.
The final section of the hike is a thrilling ascent to the Zugspitzplatt, where hikers can choose to continue on foot or take a cable car to the summit. Once at the top, the view is nothing short of spectacular, with sweeping vistas of the Alps stretching across four countries: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. This hike combines natural beauty, physical challenge, and a sense of accomplishment, making it a must-do for mountain enthusiasts.
Over the Years, Many People Have Chosen:
comfort
Don't worry about route navigation, or timing. it's all taken care of.
Knowledge
Explore places that are not always written in the guidebooks.
connection
Friendly, respectful atmosphere that encourages connections among participants.
Safety
With a specialist guiding you, you’ll avoid risky situations and enjoy the hike.
Equipment Information
Mandatory:
- Mountain shoes (above the ankle / categories A/B, B, B/C);
- Hiking socks;
- Hiking clothes;
- Rain clothes according to the latest weather forecast;
- Sun hat for sun protection;
- Lightweight backpack (approx. 30-35 liters);
- Cereal bars;
- Water bottle, approx. 1.5–2 liters;
Optional:
- Hiking poles;
- Sun screen, sun glasses;
- Blister plasters;
- First aid kit.
If you’re interested in learning more about hiking equipment, click here for detailed information. Additionally, if you’d like a checklist to print and take with you, you can download it here: Hiking Packing List.pdf
Reserve your place for this weekend’s hike to Zugspitze via Gatterl!
Directions for the Hike to Zugspitze via Gatterl:
By public transport:
- Munich – Garmisch‑Partenkirchen – Ehrwald
- Take a regional train (RE or RB) from Munich Hbf to Garmisch‑Partenkirchen (~75 min)
- From Garmisch‑Partenkirchen, continue on the Außerfernbahn regional line to Ehrwald (~30 min)
- Ehrwald Bahnhof – Ehrwalder Almbahn Talstation (Tahlstation)
- Transfer to local bus Line 1, 3, or 4 within Ehrwald (approx. 5–10 min ride).
By car:
Address for navigation: Ehrwalder Almbahn, Dr.-Ludwig-Ganghofer-Straße 66, 6632 Ehrwald, Österreich
From Munich via Garmisch in the direction of Füssen/Reutte to Ehrwald. In Ehrwald, always follow the signs to the Ehrwalder Almbahn and park in the car park of the mountain railway.
You will receive all the exact details in your confirmation email.
What's Included
- Professional guiding: the hike is led by a certified and experienced mountain leader who is familiar with the trail, the area and safety protocols.
- Route planning & pre-hike consultation: advice on necessary gear, physical preparation, and assistance with any special requirements.
- Nature, navigation & mountain tips: insights about local flora, fauna, geography, basic orientation, and mountain safety tips.
- Transportation assistance (optional): coordination of shared transportation or recommendations (transport is not included unless specified).
- Organized breaks: scenic and safe spots for resting, snacking, and socializing.
- Photos from the hike: the photos during the hike will be shared with the participants afterward.
- Safety: monitoring the group’s condition and adjusting the pace or route if needed.
- First aid support: a first aid kit will be available for minor injuries.
- Friendly atmosphere: small groups, great people, and an authentic nature experience.
What's NOT Included
- Transportation to/from the starting point (unless otherwise stated).
- Parking fees (if needed).
- Meals and snacks (participants should bring their own food and water).
- Entrance fees or permits: any entrance fees are paid separately.
- Gatterl Ticket - 60 Euro - Link HERE
- Tips for the guide are not included in the price and are optional, based on your satisfaction.
Limited availability
Spots fill up fast – don’t wait too long.-
Hike with like-minded people who might become lifelong friends.
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No worries about getting lost. Just fresh air and fun.
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Feel recharged in just one day.
About your guide: Cosmin Mihoreanu - certified UIMLA Bergwanderführer (Mountain Leader)
Since 2019, I’ve guided over 100 hikes that I personally organized, accompanying international visitors and guests through some of the most stunning landscapes—especially in Germany’s Bavarian Alps and across the beautiful Austrian Alps.
As a guide, I’m highly attentive and safety-oriented, ensuring that my guests feel confident and supported on the trail. I’m also deeply committed to protecting the environment, doing my best to minimize our impact and promote responsible hiking practices.
In addition, I am a certified NLP communication trainer and coach. This allows me to support individuals not only physically but also mentally and emotionally during our outdoor experiences. Using psychological NLP methods, I’ve helped several clients overcome their fear of heights and gain greater confidence in alpine terrain.