Kramer Plateau Trail
A scenic and accessible trail above Garmisch-Partenkirchen, offering stunning Alpine views and family-friendly paths.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
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Best Time
Wildflowers bloom beautifully
Kramer Plateau Trail
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom beautifully

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic and accessible trail above Garmisch-Partenkirchen, offering stunning Alpine views and family-friendly paths.
"Fantastically beautiful hiking trail above Garmisch, very pleasant to walk and simply enjoyable."
🚶♀️ Stroller-Friendly Sections
Many parts of the trail are smooth and wide, making it easy to navigate with a stroller.
🅿️ Wittelsbacher Parking
Start your hike from the Wittelsbacher parking lot for convenient access to the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Garmisch Views
Along the trail
Breathtaking vistas of Garmisch and Partenkirchen, offering a picturesque backdrop for your hike.

Pflegersee Lake
Part of longer loop routes
A serene lake that can be incorporated into your hike, offering a peaceful natural setting.

Well-Maintained Paths
Entire trail system
Enjoy easy navigation on well-developed and clearly signposted trails, perfect for all skill levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Difficulty & Family Friendliness
Parking & Route Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroller-Friendly Sections
Many parts of the trail are smooth and wide, making it easy to navigate with a stroller.
🅿️ Wittelsbacher Parking
Start your hike from the Wittelsbacher parking lot for convenient access to the trail.
🪑 Rest Stops Galore
Plenty of benches and covered seating areas are available along the trail for breaks.
🗺️ Customizable Routes
You can walk as far as you like or turn back, tailoring the hike to your energy levels.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroller-Friendly Sections
Many parts of the trail are smooth and wide, making it easy to navigate with a stroller.
🅿️ Wittelsbacher Parking
Start your hike from the Wittelsbacher parking lot for convenient access to the trail.
🪑 Rest Stops Galore
Plenty of benches and covered seating areas are available along the trail for breaks.
🗺️ Customizable Routes
You can walk as far as you like or turn back, tailoring the hike to your energy levels.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Kramer Plateau Trail for its beauty, accessibility, and family-friendly nature. The well-maintained paths and stunning panoramic views of Garmisch and the Alps are frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally easy, some visitors enjoy the option to extend their hikes for a more challenging experience.
"Great hiking spot. Not too difficult, considering my 13 and 7 year old daughters and 11 year old son could manage themselves. Beautiful view overlooking the town"
Fazli Kamaruddin
"A truly beautiful hiking/walking trail, especially suitable for families: it's easy to navigate with a stroller, and you can walk as far as you like, or simply turn back or turn off. Despite this, you still get a beautiful view, both of the trail itself and the mountain panorama."
Sirid B
"A fantastically beautiful hiking trail above Garmisch. Very pleasant to walk and simply enjoyable."
Jens Limpek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common starting point is the Wittelsbacher parking lot in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. From there, you can access the well-signposted trails.
While specific bus routes directly to trailheads might vary, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is well-served by public transport, and you can often walk or take a short taxi from the town center to the parking areas. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The Wittelsbacher parking lot is frequently recommended by visitors for its proximity to the trail system.
Yes, depending on the specific section you wish to explore, you might find access points from nearby villages like Greinau, especially if you plan a longer loop.
While primarily a hiking trail, some wider sections might be suitable for casual cycling, but it's best to check local regulations and be mindful of other trail users.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Kramer Plateau Trail is a public hiking area and does not require an entrance fee or tickets.
The trail is accessible year-round, from dawn till dusk. However, winter conditions can make certain sections challenging or impassable.
Parking at the Wittelsbacher parking lot may have a fee, especially during peak seasons. It's advisable to check signage at the lot for current rates.
While technically accessible, hiking at night is not recommended due to potential hazards and lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours for safety.
No permits are generally required for day hiking on the Kramer Plateau Trail. It's a public access area.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The trail is generally considered easy to moderate, with well-maintained paths and gentle inclines, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
Absolutely! Many sections are stroller-friendly and the trail offers beautiful views without being overly strenuous, making it ideal for families.
The duration depends on the route you choose. A leisurely stroll might take an hour, while exploring longer loops to Pflegersee and Greinau could take 3-4 hours.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the main parking areas and sometimes at designated rest stops along the longer routes. It's wise to use facilities before you start your hike.
You'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of Garmisch, Partenkirchen, and the surrounding Bavarian Alps.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the trail itself doesn't have dedicated eateries, there are often charming beer gardens or restaurants in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Greinau that you can visit before or after your hike.
Yes, there are many scenic spots with benches and covered seating areas perfect for a picnic lunch. Remember to pack out all your trash.
The towns of Garmisch and Greinau offer a variety of traditional Bavarian restaurants and cafes. Look for places serving local specialties like Schweinshaxe or Kaiserschmarrn.
It's best to bring your own snacks and water, as there are no shops directly on the trail. Plan ahead by purchasing supplies in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
Must-try dishes include Weißwurst (white sausage), Leberkäse, pretzels, and various types of dumplings (Knödel). Don't forget to sample some local beer!
📸 📸 Photography
Look for viewpoints offering clear vistas of Garmisch and the Alps. The areas around Pflegersee and any open clearings provide excellent photo opportunities.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of the trail and its surroundings. If you're serious about landscape photography, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial.
Capture the charming Bavarian architecture in Garmisch, the serene beauty of Pflegersee, and the expansive mountain panoramas. Look for interesting flora and fauna along the way.
Be mindful of other hikers and respect their privacy. Also, be aware of changing weather conditions, which can quickly impact visibility and light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With plenty of benches for rest stops and beautiful views of Garmisch and the surrounding Alps to keep young explorers engaged, it's a stress-free outing. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots, turning your hike into a delightful family outing.
🚶♀️ Casual Strollers & Walkers
You can choose to do a short loop or extend your walk to places like Pflegersee. The abundance of seating areas means you can stop and admire the scenery as often as you like, making it a perfect option for a gentle exploration of the Bavarian landscape.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Explore different vantage points to capture the charming townscapes and majestic mountain backdrops. Don't forget to also look for opportunities to photograph natural elements like Pflegersee and the local flora.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Kramer Plateau Trail
From this central point, you can choose to follow the plateau path for stunning views of the town and the surrounding Alps, or embark on longer loops. Popular extensions include hikes to Pflegersee, a picturesque lake, and continuing on to Greinau. The trail is exceptionally well-signposted, ensuring that even novice hikers can navigate with confidence.
Key takeaway: The flexibility of the trail system allows you to customize your hike. Whether you're looking for a short, scenic stroll or a more extended trek, the Kramer Plateau Trail can accommodate your preferences. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially if you plan on a longer excursion.
Family Adventures on the Plateau
Parents can feel confident letting their children explore, as the paths are clear and the inclines are manageable. The beautiful views of Garmisch and the mountains provide constant visual interest, keeping kids entertained. Plus, the presence of numerous benches and covered seating areas means you can easily take breaks whenever needed.
Pro-tip: Pack some snacks and drinks for a delightful picnic amidst nature. The trail offers a perfect blend of gentle activity and breathtaking scenery, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.
Capturing the Bavarian Beauty
Beyond the townscapes, the trail also leads to natural beauty spots like Pflegersee, providing serene lake reflections and opportunities for nature photography. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, which can add unique elements to your shots. The well-developed paths mean you can move around easily to find the best angles.
Photography tip: While a smartphone can capture great images, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial for encompassing the vast mountain vistas. Always be prepared for changing weather conditions, as they can dramatically alter the mood and light of your photographs.
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