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National park · Berchtesgaden, Baviera
Nationalpark Berchtesgaden
The only German national park in the Alps, established in 1978, featuring the Watzmann, the Königssee and valleys such as the Wimbachtal. The visitor center Haus der Berge, at the entrance to Berchtesgaden, has an exhibition about the park.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Nationalpark Berchtesgaden
Nationalpark Berchtesgaden was established in 1978 and is the only German national park in the Alps. It covers about 208 km² in the municipalities of Ramsau, Schönau am Königssee and Berchtesgaden, bordering Austria. It contains the Watzmann, at 2,713 meters, most of the Königssee and the gravelly Wimbachgries valley.
The gateway is the Haus der Berge, the park's visitor center at the entrance to Berchtesgaden, with views of the Watzmann. The permanent exhibition, Vertikale Wildnis (Vertical Wilderness), explores the park's environments, from the lake bottom to the peaks, and there is an outdoor area with paths and activities.
The park has waymarked trails of all levels, from flat walks in Ramsau and the Klausbach valley to long climbs to mountain huts. Information posts operate at points such as St. Bartholomä, Hintersee and Wimbachbrücke. The administration offers an annual program of guided walks free of charge.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours at the Haus der Berge. For trails in the park, half a day to a full day.
Best time
From June to September for high-altitude trails. Spring and autumn are good for walks in the valleys. In winter several trails close and hikes require equipment. Check the park website for which paths are closed.
How to get there
The Haus der Berge is at the entrance to Berchtesgaden, about a 10-minute walk from Berchtesgaden Hbf station. Regional buses go to Ramsau, to Hintersee and to the Königssee, which are trailheads.
Tip
Start at the Haus der Berge to choose a trail based on the weather and your fitness. Bring water, a jacket and hiking footwear, and respect park rules such as staying on waymarked trails.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Nationalpark Berchtesgaden
What is the Haus der Berge?
The information center of Nationalpark Berchtesgaden at the town's entrance, with a permanent exhibition about the park, an outdoor area and trail guidance.
Are there easy trails in the park?
Yes. The Klausbach valley in Ramsau and the paths around the Königssee and Hintersee are flat or have little ascent.
Does the park offer guided walks?
Yes. The park administration offers an annual program of guided walks free of charge. Check dates on the park's website.