Summer in Munich is just around the corner, and the sunny weather is perfect for day trips on the weekends. Whether you prefer to cool off in one of the many swimming lakes or stay active on the go, Bavaria offers more than enough options in every respect. On hot days, caves, gorges, and ravines are particularly popular destinations for experiencing a bit of adventure away from the heat. It doesn’t always have to be the well-known tourist attractions like the Partnachklamm or the Breitachklamm, because even the lesser-known places have a lot to offer. If you’re looking for a destination like this, then the Klausenbachklamm might be just right for you.
On former smugglers’ trails
The Klausenbachklamm is located in the Chiemgau Alps and owes its name to the Klausenbach, which winds its way here from the Klausenberg toward Lofer. It is situated near the border with Austria, which made it particularly attractive to smugglers in days gone by. They crossed the border behind Kössen and followed the Klausenbach toward Reit im Winkl, where they stopped.
Today, the gorge is no longer a smugglers’ path but an attractive destination for day trips. On the loop trail, you can set off from Reit im Winkl toward the Klausenbachklamm and enter it via several access points. From here, you can head toward the Klausenbergalm, where you can stop for a break and enjoy some drinks; unfortunately, no food is available. The entire premium hiking trail takes about 3 hours to complete, and you should be sure-footed. It leads you over several steps and ledges through the gorge, but also past alpine meadows and through wooded areas, making the entire route very varied.
Adventure in the Klausenbach Gorge
The bridges and footbridges that lead you along and over the Klausenbach alone make the hike exciting. The water rushes past you and cascades down the steps in the gorge. That alone makes the Klausenbachklamm charming. If you’re looking for even more adventure, you can join a torchlight hike after dark and imagine yourself back in the days of the smugglers. It gets even more exciting when you rappel down the rugged rock faces as part of the children’s program.
From Munich, the best way to get to the Klausenbachklamm is by car, which takes about an hour and 40 minutes. Park your car at the Blindau hiking parking lot, a district of Reit im Winkl. The gorge is open from April to November, and admission is free. It’s a great destination for a day trip, especially in the summer, as it offers a cool respite on hot days and lets you go hiking despite the heat.
