Großer Rachel: Summit of the Bavarian Forest National Park
Hike to the summit of Großer Rachel, the Bavarian Forest National Park's highest peak, and witness nature's resilience firsthand.
Großer Rachel, standing at 1,453 meters, is the highest peak within the Bavarian Forest National Park and the second highest in the Bavarian Forest. Its rocky summit offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the unique ecological recovery following a large bark beetle infestation.
A brief summary to Großer Rachel
- Frauenau, DE
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the trails can be steep and rocky.
- Bring layers, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.
- Check the Igelbus schedule in advance if visiting between mid-May and early November, as private vehicle access to some trailheads is restricted during the day.
- Be prepared for snow and ice in winter; consider using touring skis or snowshoes.
- The Waldschmidthaus is currently closed for renovations; pack your own food and drinks.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Spiegelau train station, take the Igelbus (Line 601 or 7595) to the Gfäll bus stop. The Igelbus operates from mid-May to early November. From Gfäll, follow the marked hiking trails to the summit. A single Igelbus fare from Spiegelau to Gfäll is approximately €3. Check the current schedule as the last bus departs at 18:05.
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Walking
From the Gfäll bus stop/parking area, follow the 'Auerhahn' trail. The trail is well-marked and leads to the Waldschmidthaus, then continues to the summit. The hike to the summit takes approximately 1.5 - 2 hours. The trail involves a steep ascent and some rocky sections. There are no fees for hiking the trails.
Discover more about Großer Rachel
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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