Munich has many green spaces and nooks, most of which are well-maintained. However, if you’re longing for something a bit more pristine, you’ll have to venture out of the city . If you’d like to spice up your trip with a dash of adventure, the Höllentalklamm near Garmisch-Patenkirchenis the perfect destination for you. It brings you a little closer to the Zugspitze and rewards you along the way with breathtaking views.
Less touristy than the Partnachklamm
The Höllentalklamm is located at the end of the Höllental valley and takes you up a few hundred meters in elevation toward the Zugspitze along a roughly 700-meter-long route. Although it’s situated near Germany’s highest mountain, it attracts far fewer visitors than the popular Partnachklamm. This may be due in no small part to the fact that the trail through the Höllentalklamm is somewhat more challenging. It’s not just uphill, but also quite narrow in places. So you’re better off leaving the stroller at home.
In return, the Höllentalklamm is considered particularly unspoiled. Here, nature is still nature—untamed and rugged. Development for tourism began in the early 20th century, but the paths are narrow and bumpy. Sure-footedness and sturdy footwear are a must. In the gorge, the Hammersbach transforms into a veritable torrent, its water rushing past you with a roar. The rock walls rise up to 150 meters high beside you, forming an imposing backdrop.
Adventure Höllentalklamm
You can only visit the Höllental Gorge from May through October when there is no snow, as there is a risk of avalanches in winter. This year, it opens on May 14 and is expected to be open daily until mid-October. To enter the gorge, you must pay an admission fee, though DAV members receive discounts. Right at the entrance to the gorge, you’ll find the Höllental Entrance Hut, which houses a museum detailing the history of the gorge. Here, you can also stop for a bite to eat and refuel before your hike.
Inside the gorge, the path winds along the Hammersbach stream over rocky trails, steps, and through small tunnels. You’ll hike past curious rock formations and bubbling waterfalls that let you truly feel the unspoiled nature of the area . At the end of the gorge, the terrain opens up again, and you can continue on to the Höllentalangerhütte or even all the way to the summit of the Zugspitze. Cool temperatures prevail in the Höllentalklamm itself all year round, so be sure to dress warmly enough.
🕑 Opening hours: Mid-May to mid-October, 24/7
💶 Price information: Adults €7, DAV members €3.50
