Summit and Panoramic Trail

The remaining 100 metres of altitude from the mountain station to the summit are definitely a "must” for visitors to the Wendelstein. Once reached, the summit rewards you with a magnificent 360° panoramic view. The summit cross is also located on the viewing platform, as is the small St. Wendelin’s Chapel, the Summit Book and the University Observatory. The ascent along the well-protected and paved Summit Trail takes approximately 20 minutes and is also suitable for less experienced hikers.

Description of the trail: Below the Wendelstein Church the trail leads to the left of the Bavarian Broadcasting Corporate building and continues around hairpin bends and up steps to an altitude of 1,838 metres. Some 16 information boards along the scenic route erected by the GEO Park provide information about the formation of the Alps.

The Panoramic Trail on the Wendelstein

You can either follow the same route back to the mountain station or take the Panoramic Trail through attractive alpine scenery (sure-footedness + hiking boots required!) This route branches off just below the Wendelstein summit and continues past an attractive picnic spot on what is know as the Eastern Summit back to the mountain station. Once back at the mountain station, it is certainly worth making a short detour into Germany’s highest show cave and taking a look in the Wendelstein Church .

Signposted, hiking time approx. 40 minutes

Please note: The Summit and Panoramic Trail are located in high-alpine terrain which is not accessible to snow-clearing vehicles in winter. Snowy and icy paths are therefore cordoned off due to the risk of avalanches and people falling. As the heavy snowfall and frost caused by the wintry weather always leaves behind damage, the hiking trails generally need to be maintained, railings repaired, residual snow and ice and rockfall removed by our operational crew in April / May before the trails can be reopened. We would ask for your understanding! Check out the current weather / operational information here