Self Guided: Tyrol and Bavarian Alps
Self Guided: Tyrol and Bavarian Alps
Karwendel to Zugspitze Traverse Self Guided 6 Days
Discover the wild Karwendel Alps and the legendary Zugspitze on this six-day traverse linking two of Austria and Germany's most iconic mountain landscapes. This epic route combines remote hut-to-hut trekking through Austria's largest mountain range with spectacular scenery and comfortable hotel stays around the foot of Germany's highest peak, all in one continuous journey.
Enjoy the best of both worlds as you follow unforgettable trails from the turquoise waters of Lake Achensee, through true Alpine wilderness and mountain hut stays, before easing into gentler, hotel-based comfort as you approach the Zugspitze. With rugged high mountains, charming villages and incredible views throughout, this is the ultimate challenge for trekkers looking to experience the full spectrum of the Alps in a single adventure.
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Duration
5 Nights, 6 Days
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Start Location
Lake Achensee, Austria
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Date(s)
June - September
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Price
From €830
Adventure Snapshot
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+ 51
Embark on the ultimate Alpine journey, a six-day traverse linking two of Austria and Germany's most iconic mountain landscapes: the wild Karwendel Alps and the legendary Zugspitze and Bavarian alps. This epic route combines the raw, remote wilderness of Austria's largest mountain range with the spectacular scenery, taking you from turquoise alpine lakes to the foot of Germany's highest peak.
The adventure begins on the shores of Lake Achensee, where the trail climbs into the dramatic limestone heart of the Karwendel. Over two nights you'll stay in classic Alpine mountain huts, first at Binsalm and then at Karwendelhaus, journeying through remote trails, big mountain views and true wilderness scenery far from the crowds. The third day brings you down to the village of Scharnitz, marking the transition from wild hut-to-hut trekking into the gentler, hotel-based comfort of the second half of the traverse.
From Scharnitz, the trail continues into the peaceful Leutasch Valley, surrounded by dramatic Tyrolean peaks and wide-open meadows, before reaching Ehrwald, a charming Austrian resort village with incredible views of the Zugspitze massif. The final day brings you to the turquoise waters of Lake Eibsee, one of Bavaria's most beautiful alpine lakes, before a short train ride carries you into Garmisch-Partenkirchen to complete your journey.
Combining two distinct trekking experiences in one unforgettable route, from the untamed wilderness of the Karwendel to the comfort and charm of the Zugspitze region, this traverse is the perfect challenge for trekkers looking to experience the full spectrum of the Alps, from hut life to hotel comfort, in a single, spectacular adventure.
Learn more. Download our guide here.
DOWNLOAD PDFEnter your details to download the Karwendel to Zugspitze Traverse Self Guided 6 Days brochure
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
WHO IS THIS FOR?
The Karwendel to Zugspitze Traverse self-guided trek is ideal for trekkers looking to experience the full range of the Alps, from remote mountain wilderness to comfortable valley trekking, on one continuous six-day adventure. You should have a good level of fitness and be comfortable walking for around 5-7 hours a day, covering an average of 17km with around 700m of ascent and descent daily.
The route does not require any technical skills, but you should be prepared for some sustained climbing, particularly through the Karwendel section. The pace eases considerably in the second half of the trip, with shorter, gentler days and the comfort of hotel accommodation each night. This trek is a great choice for those wanting a genuine taste of Alpine hut-to-hut trekking, combined with the more relaxed pace and welcoming accommodation of the Zugspitze region.
Luggage transfers are not included but can be added on at an additional cost, allowing you to enjoy parts of the trail without the burden of carrying all of your gear each day.
Please note that as the first two nights of this trek are spent in remote mountain huts without vehicle access (Binsalm and Karwendelhaus), luggage transfers are not possible for this section, and you'll need to carry everything you need for those two days in your own backpack.
From Scharnitz onwards, your main luggage can be transported between accommodations, so you only need to hike with a lightweight daypack containing your daily essentials, such as water, snacks, extra clothing, and any personal items you may need on the trail.
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Duration
5 Nights, 6 Days
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Start Location
Lake Achensee, Austria
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Date(s)
June - September
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Ability
Level ALevel A
You’re not quite sure where to start but you’re hungry for an adventure and can’t wait to get going. Bring it on!
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Price
From €830
Adventure Overview
See real footage of previous expeditions
Meet The Team
01:48Introducing our crack squad of mountain lovers and adventure junkies. We spend most of our days plotting, planning and building some of the very best trips out there for you all to enjoy.
Trekking the Karwendel Alps, Austria
2:47Charlie and Olly trek the Karwendel Alps Highlights in Austria starting from Lake Achensee.
Trekking the Zugspitze Circuit
01:52Watch Beth take on the Zugspitze Circuit in June 2026, trekking the trails, gorges, and alpine views around Germany's highest peak.
Kit & equipment required for this adventure
Please note this is a guide and you may be required to rent or purchase last minute equipment on arrival dependent on the weather and changes in itinerary.
For the full downloadable kit list please click here.
Hiking shoes / Trail Shoes
Good grip and ankle support is recommended
Soft shell jacket
Light technical jacket ideally with hood
Lightweight fleece
Something light and thin
Tech T-Shirts
Highly breathable, lightweight synthetic technical t-shirt.
Trekking Poles
Foldable or telescopic poles are best
FULL KIT LIST
More info
Click the link in the text above to find the full kit list
FINER DETAILS
YOUR ADVENTURE PACKAGE
The trek starts in Lake Achensee and finishes In Garmisch-Partenkirchen. If you would like to book any additional nights with us pre or post trip, please let us know.
What's Included?
- 5 nights accommodation
- 1 dinner
- 5 breakfasts
- 24/7 Support communication with our team in the Alps
- Navigational App
- Planning and reservations
What's not Included?
- Flights
- Airport transfers
- Travel insurance (required)
- Luggage transfers
- Additional nights before, during and after trip (can be added on request)
- Lunches, snacks and drinks
- In-resort travel (bus / lifts / trains)
Adventure like a local
The Adventure Base Difference
Born & Bred in the Alps
With an office at the foot of Mont Blanc in Chamonix, we help you Adventure like a local.
Customer Focused
We don't just want you for one trip, we want you for lots! We work extremely hard to earn that right.
Don't take our word for it
Our clients do the talking. Check out their latest reviews and see what makes their trips so special.
Guaranteed Departures
If you can book it, we'll run it even if it's just for you. You shouldn't have to wait to get excited for your trip.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE ACCOMMODATION
We know the importance of having comfortable accommodation on this trip. After long days trekking it's vital to have a comfortable bed and good food to enjoy. We've handpicked accommodation along the way that we're sure you're going to love.
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ON THE TREK
All of the accommodation on the trip will be in private hotel rooms. You can upgrade any of the accommodation options if requested in advance and based on availability.
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Duration
5 Nights
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Internet
Wifi included
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Beds
Dormitories & Private Rooms
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Food
1x Dinner, 5x Breakfasts
WHAT TO EXPECT
Karwendel to Zugspitze Traverse Itinerary
Whilst you will try and stick to the tried and tested itinerary below, availability in some of the locations may not always be available. In this instance we will provide a suitable alternative and make sure you're aware of any changes.
Keep in mind: The moving times shown don’t account for breaks. Add 1–2 hours each day for a more accurate total trail time.
Please note: Early or late season departures may be impacted by reduced bus/train/gondola operating schedules, so the availability of transport options may vary.
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Day 1:
Lake Achensee - Binsalm
Your trek begins with an easy stroll along the shores of Lake Achensee, on wide, comfortable paths with lovely views out across the turquoise water. From Pertisau, the route eases away from the lake and into the open, tranquil Falzthurntal valley, climbing gently through forest and meadows an easy, scenic warm-up for what's to come.
The path then steepens noticeably, switchbacking up the mountainside toward the Binssattel saddle. It's a sustained, arduous pull, but the views only get better as you climb, and at the top you're rewarded with a sweeping panorama taking in the Laliderwand, the Eng valley, and the peaks of the Sonnjoch and Gramai.
From here, it's all downhill a gentle 30-minute descent brings you down to Binsalm, your alpine hut for the night, set in a beautiful spot above the valley.
Approximate time and distances:
20kms / 1000m up / 450m down / 6 hours trekking
12miles / 3280ft up / 1400ft down / 6 hours trekking -
Day 2:
Binsalm - Karwendelhaus
Today brings an up-and-down day as you navigate deeper into the heart of the Karwendel. Leaving the quiet, little-visited pastures of Binsalm, the trail winds through a landscape of sharp climbs and descents, threading between rocky ridgelines and alpine meadows. Along the way you'll pass Falkenhütte, one of the region's classic refuges, perched at 1,848m beneath the towering Laliderer Wände, a perfect spot to pause and take in the scenery.
From Falkenhütte, the final stretch climbs once more on a narrow forest path that rises steadily, mostly shaded, though it can catch the afternoon sun, before delivering you to Karwendelhaus. Over a century old, this massive mountain hut of natural stone and timber cladding seems to grow straight out of the rock face. It sits dramatically on the mountainside high above the valley, a fitting, unforgettable place to spend the night deep in the Karwendel wilderness.
Approximate time and distances:
17kms / 1300m up / 1000m down / 6 hours trekking
10.5miles / 4300ft up / 3280ft down / 6 hours trekking -
Day 3:
Karwendelhaus - Scharnitz
Your final day begins with a series of switchbacks winding down from Karwendelhaus on a broad forest road, quickly losing height as you leave the high pass behind. The path soon eases into the long, open Karwendeltal valley, with the towering Birkkarspitze, the Karwendel's highest peak, and other imposing summits framing the valley floor on either side.
Along the way you'll pass the Larchetalm, a beautiful stretch of pastureland where you can rest beside the rushing Karwendel stream, and the small Birzl Chapel a little further on. The route follows the Karwendelbach for much of the descent, with side waterfalls, cascades and small gorges to enjoy as the stream tumbles down through the valley.
The final stretch flattens out into a gentle, easy walk along the valley floor, bringing you into the village of Scharnitz.
Approximate time and distances:
16kms / 100m up / 900m down / 4 hours trekking
10miles / 300ft up / 3000ft down / 4 hours trekking -
Day 4:
Scharnitz - Leutasch Valley
Today marks the transition from wild Karwendel trekking into the gentler landscapes of the Zugspitze region. From Scharnitz, the trail follows the Grießenbach stream upstream through peaceful woodland before climbing through forest toward the Hohen Sattel, a ridge saddle at around 1,495m and the high point of the day.
From the top, the path descends through mixed forest and open alpine slopes, gradually easing down alongside the Leutasch Ache river as you drop into the valley below. The final stretch follows the riverside into the village of Leutasch, a peaceful settlement surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Wetterstein and wide-open meadows, marking a welcome return to valley comfort after three days in the mountains.
Approximate time and distances:
12kms / 600m up / 400m down / 4 hours trekking
7.5miles / 2000ft up / 1300ft down / 4 hours trekking -
Day 5:
Leutasch Valley - Ehrwald
Setting out today, you'll wander past the small settlements continuing on the same river path as yesterday. From there the path begins a gradual climb alongside the Leutascher Ache, a broad valley beneath the rugged Wetterstein range.
Turning off the river path, you follow a higher trail. As you gain altitude, the landscape grows wilder passing dairy farms, cattle and some of the trails leading high into the Zugspitze.
Behind you, sweeping views of the Leutasch Valley unfold with each step. Eventually the trail brings you into the scenic Gaistal Valley. Here you’ll pass by the working farms of Gaistalalm and then shortly after Tillfussalm which both offer food and refreshments.
From here you drop back onto the lower river trail for a short stretch before starting the climb up towards Ehrwalder Almbahn. There is also the option to make a short detour to Hocherfeldern Alm before descneding down to the ski resort above Erhwald town.
This stretch of the valley is home to Haflinger horses, brown and grey cattle, and Scottish Galloway cattle grazing the pastures. From here you can either walk down to the village or Erhwald or skip the descent by taking the Brent Alm gondola. From there, the route follows the Gaisbach stream down into Ehrwald, where you'll spend the night.
Approximate time and distances:
20km / 600m up / 700m down / 5 hours trekking
12miles / 2000ft up / 2300ft down / 5 hours trekking -
Day 6:
Erhwald - Lake Eibsee - Train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen
The route leads up and out of the town before turning toward the forest, where the climb begins, first through woodland, then over open slopes that double as ski pistes come winter.
The ascent continues up to the Speicherteich Gamskar, a quiet mountain reservoir with a small mountain resturant next to it Gamsalm Ehrwald. From here you will drop down before starting to climb up again towards the Hochthorle Hutte a perfect stop for a rest.
From the Hutte heading down gradually at first and then steeper, the scenery shifts repeatedly, from bare, rocky terrain to soft forest trail, until the brilliant turquoise of Eibsee comes into view, often ranked among the most beautiful lakes in the Alps. Sitting directly beneath the Zugspitze, its untouched shoreline makes for a spectacular end to the day.
From here you take the train into Garmish, greeted by its painted house fronts, inviting cafés, and the dramatic mountain backdrop that's accompanied you the whole way marking the end of the journey.
Approximate time and distances:
18km / 700m up / 700m down / 5 hours trekking
11miles / 2300ft up / 2300ft down / 5 hours trekking
Frequently asked questions about this adventure
Karwendel to Zugspitze Traverse: FAQs
Getting to your Adventure: Tyrol and Bavarian Alps
Wondering how to get to your adventure with us? Please see here for more info.
Are you ready?
Our adventures are attributed a difficulty level from A to E. This Karwendel to Zugspitze Traverse Self Guided 6 Days trip is rated Level A, for beginners and newcomers We recommend you only book a trip that reflects your ability.
Level A
For beginners and newcomers
- You’re not quite sure where to start but you’re hungry for an adventure
- Little / no prior experience
- Shorter time duration
- No technical skills required but keen to learn
- Basic level of fitness
Think you've got this?
This trip is at this level
Level B
For those with some prior experience
- You have some previous experience in the outdoors, whether that’s hiking, skiing or climbing, and are keen to build on that
- You will either be starting to venture into more technical terrain or slightly more challenging environments
- Some basic skills
- Moderate fitness
More your level?
Level C
For accomplished adventurers
- You enjoy challenging yourself physically and mentally
- You’re comfortable on multi-day adventures and you call yourself an avid adventurer
- You're not quite George Mallory but you subscribe to his 'because it is there' attitude
- Strong level of fitness
More your level?
Level D
For the pros
- You're ready to test your skills on the next challenge
- You're comfortable in most types of alpine environments
- Some level of technical skills
- Strong level of fitness
More your level?
Level E
For the experts
- You’ve been on multiple adventures and have built up a solid skillset to tackle most challenges out there
- Good technical skills and knowledge
- Experienced in alpine/mountains environments
- Very high level of fitness
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