Long Distance Hikes in Germany
Germany’s long-distance trails weave through forests, mountains, and medieval towns.
Every path reveals a story—romantic rivers, half-timbered villages, and timeless castles—making hiking in Germany both an outdoor adventure and cultural journey.
Featured hikes in Germany
Goldsteig
Rennsteig Trail
Moselsteig
No hikes found
No hikes match your current filter criteria. Try adjusting your filters.
| Hike | Country | Terrain & Landscape | Difficulty | Distance | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tegernsee to Schliersee Trail | |
| Moderate | 14 km | 1 days |
| Harzer Grenzweg (Border Trail) | |
| Moderate | 95 km | 5 days |
| Albsteig (Swabian Jura Trail) | |
| Hard | 358 km | 16 days |
| Elbe Sandstone Mountains Trail | |
| Hard | 112 km | 6 days |
| Ortenauer Weinpfad (Ortenau Wine Trail) | |
| Moderate | 103 km | 6 days |
| Rheingau Riesling Path | |
| Moderate | 35 km | 2 days |
| Via Claudia Augusta (Bavarian Segment) | |
| Moderate | 160 km | 7 days |
| Goldsteig | |
| Hard | 660 km | 25 days |
| RheinBurgenWeg (Rhine Castle Trail) | |
| Moderate | 195 km | 10 days |
| Kirnitzschtal Tramway Trail | |
| Moderate | 11.0 km | 1 days |
| Rennsteig Trail | |
| Moderate | 169.3 km | 7 days |
| Harzer Hexenstieg (Witches' Trail) | |
| Moderate | 97 km | 5 days |
| Spreewald Loop | |
| Easy | 18.0 km | 1 days |
| Eifelsteig | |
| Moderate | 313 km | 15 days |
| Lüneburger Heide Path | |
| Moderate | 223 km | 10 days |
| King Ludwig Way (König-Ludwig-Weg) | |
| Moderate | 120 km | 6 days |
| Weserbergland Trail | |
| Moderate | 225 km | 13 days |
| Mainwanderweg (Main River Trail) | |
| Moderate | 540 km | 22 days |
| Altmühltal Panorama Trail | |
| Moderate | 200 km | 10 days |
| Hainich National Park Trail | |
| Easy | 7.5 km | 1 days |
| Schluchtensteig | |
| Hard | 119 km | 6 days |
| Watzmann Circuit | |
| Expert | 27 km | 2 days |
| Mittelweg | |
| Moderate | 230 km | 10 days |
| Harzer BaudenSteig | |
| Moderate | 97 km | 6 days |
| Brocken Circuit | |
| Hard | 19 km | 1 days |
| Westweg | |
| Hard | 285 km | 13 days |
| Moselsteig | |
| Moderate | 365 km | 24 days |
Key Facts About Hiking in Germany
Germany Hiking Overview
Hiking in Germany blends natural beauty with rich history.
From the Black Forest’s deep valleys to the Bavarian Alps’ jagged peaks, long-distance trails lead walkers through vineyards, riverbanks, and national parks. Routes like the Rennsteig, Malerweg, and Rheinsteig showcase Germany’s diverse landscapes.
With well-marked paths, welcoming guesthouses, and excellent infrastructure, Germany makes long-distance hiking both accessible and rewarding. Whether you crave high-alpine challenges or gentle riverside rambles, Germany’s trails connect nature, culture, and tradition with every step.
The Longest & Most Popular Hiking Trails in Germany
Germany’s longest trail is the Goldsteig, stretching over 660 km across the Bavarian Forest and Upper Palatinate.
The most popular is the Rheinsteig, famous for castles, vineyards, and sweeping views of the Rhine River valley.
Hiking Seasons in Germany
Germany’s main hiking season runs from April to October, with warmer weather, clear paths, and most long-distance routes fully accessible for multi-day adventures.
The Best Month to Hike in Germany
September is often the best month, offering mild weather, fewer crowds, and stunning autumn colors—perfect for long-distance hiking through forests, vineyards, and mountains.
Hiking Permits & Licenses in Germany
Most long-distance trails in Germany require no permits. Exceptions may apply in nature reserves or national parks, so it’s best to check local regulations before hiking.
Can I wild camp whilst hiking in Germany
Wild camping is generally prohibited in Germany. Overnight stays should be at official campsites, guesthouses, or designated trekking sites to stay within the law and protect nature.