Bavarian Forest National Park | (Official GANP Page)

About

Bavarian Forest National Park, known locally as Bayerischer Wald, is located on the southeastern border of Germany running alongside the Czech Republic. The protected forest combines with the Czech Republic’s Sumava National Park to create the largest protected contiguous forest in Central Europe.

The Bavarian Forest on the German side covers an area of 93.50 square miles (242.2 sq km) and was established as Germany’s first national park. The forest is comprised of spruce trees, European silver fir, European beech, Norway spruce, mixed mountain forest, highland forests, and water meadow spruce woods.

The national park is located in the highlands between the Danube River and the Bohemian Forest. The landscape is primarily short granite and gneiss hills covered and surrounded by the dense forest.

The Bavarian Forest national park features three key peaks of which GroBer Rachel is the highest with a summit of 4,767 feet (1,453 m). The other two peaks include Lusen at 4,505 feet (1,373 m) and GroBer Falkenstein at 4,281 feet (1,305 m).

Wildlife of the Bavarian Forest National Park includes popular animals like the lynx, the bear, and the wolf which make up the primary predators of the forest. Other mammalian species include deer, European bison, beaver, and otters.

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The Bavarian Forest National Park is the epitome of a natural forest. It is a place that you escape to turn off the world and let nature do the talking. Driving through, hiking, and just exploring the wilderness is the reason to escape to this park.

The park has served as inspiration and settings for numerous pieces of literature as well as movie films. With the serene and peaceful rolling hills and abundance of rarely disturbed forests and valleys, it is no wonder that it fosters such inspiration.

Bavarian Forest National Park Trails

The Bavarian Forest National Park is full of hiking trails that meander up and down and throughout the park. This is one of the best escapes into nature as well as ways to experience the area.

Baumwipfeldpfad Bayrischer Wald Trail

This is an easy trail that travels into the forest 1.2 miles (1.9 km) before returning back the same route. There is only an elevation change of 167 feet (50.9 m). This is a simple but great way to experience some of the forested landscape.

Baumwipfeldpfad und Tier-Freigelande

This easy trail is long but wheelchair accessible. It is a loop of 6.1 miles (9.8 km) providing an excellent opportunity to explore the Bavarian Forest and even catch glimpses of some of the wildlife.

Lusen Rundweg Trail

This is a 5.7-mile (9.2 km) with an elevation change of 1,240 feet (377.9 m). Although parts of it are boarded, it is rated moderate. Apart from the scenic forest, one of the highlights is the river.

Entlang des Schmalzbachs zum Schwellhausl Trail

This is a 6.7-mile (10.8 km) loop trail that meanders through the forest and along with one of the rivers in the park. It features an elevation gain of 1,007 feet (306.9 m) and is rated as a moderate trail.

Großer Falkenstein Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 7 miles (11.3 km) round trip, with an elevation gain of 1,600 feet (488 meters)

Description: This trail leads to the summit of Großer Falkenstein, offering panoramic views of the national park’s vast forest.

Hikers will pass through lush woodland and clearings, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Baumwipfelpfad (Treetop Walk)

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 0.8 miles (1.3 km) one way, with minimal elevation gain

Description: Accessible to all, this unique walkway offers a bird’s eye view of the forest from above the treetops, culminating in a stunning view from the top of a large observation tower.

It’s an excellent way for families and individuals of all abilities to experience the forest.

Lusen Summit Trail

Rating: Moderate to Challenging

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3.5 miles (5.6 km) round trip, with an elevation gain of 1,000 feet (305 meters)

Description: This hike takes adventurers to the summit of Lusen Mountain, one of the park’s highest peaks.

The trail is known for its “sea of stones” – large fields of boulders near the summit. The view from the top offers a breathtaking panorama of the Bavarian Forest.

Rachel Mountain Trail

Rating: Challenging

Distance and Elevation Gain: 8.5 miles (13.7 km) round trip, with an elevation gain of 1,750 feet (533 meters)

Description: A demanding hike leading to the second highest peak in the national park, Rachel Mountain.

The trail passes through dense forests and offers stunning views of Lake Rachel (Rachelsee).

It’s a quiet route, perfect for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature.

Schwellhäusl to Lindberg Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 6 miles (9.7 km) one way, with minimal elevation gain

Description: This picturesque trail is known for its gentle paths through the forest, passing by traditional Bavarian huts and crossing clear streams.

It’s particularly beautiful in autumn when the foliage is at its peak. The Schwellhäusl inn, located halfway, offers a perfect stop for traditional Bavarian refreshments.