Safety in the high mountains
Around 260 kilometers of hiking trails and alpine paths open up the Berchtesgaden National Park. The main network of trails is signposted, with yellow signs at all important starting points and crossroads. The individual trails are color-coded according to their difficulty - this information will help you choose the right tour and ensure your safety!
Path categories
Barrier-free paths are wide, have no or only slight inclines and there is no risk of falling.
Easy mountain trails are often narrow and can have steep passages, there is no danger of falling.
Moderately difficult climb are narrow and mostly steep. Short passages where there is a risk of falling or sections secured by wire ropes must be mastered.
Difficult climb are narrow, steep, often exposed and there is a risk of falling. Wire rope secured passages and unsecured climbing sections must be mastered. Not suitable for dogs.
Important safety information
Especially in the high mountains, there are always dangers posed by nature. In particular, you must always be prepared for dead trees to topple over and branches to fall. Do not linger in danger areas of dead wood and pass dead wood accumulations as quickly as possible. Do not enter the woods in strong winds, thunderstorms or when there is a risk of snowfall. There is also a risk of falling rocks near rock faces in all weathers.
Tips for a safe and unforgettable stay
- Be sure to tailor your excursions to your personal ability and to the weather and daylight conditions
- Make sure you wear sturdy footwear and take rain protection, warm clothing, drinks and sufficient food with you
- Pay attention to current conditions in the terrain - the weather can change very quickly in the mountains
- Rely on detailed maps and signposting in the terrain when planning your route and orientation
- For longer tours and on more difficult paths, a head for heights, surefootedness and good physical condition are essential
- In winter, always pay attention to the avalanche report
- Follow the rules - this way you can make a valuable contribution to the protection of nature and a great experience for everyone!
Further resources
In the event of a mountain accident, dial the international emergency number 112
For the summer
To protect nature, please keep to the signposted hiking and cycling trails during your excursions.
Current conditions can be found here or at the Berchtesgaden Alpine Information Office (May - October; 0049 (0) 8652 9764615).
For the winter
Wild animals need a lot of peace and quiet, especially in winter, in order to survive in the high mountains. Please stick to the designated ski tours and snowshoe routes during your winter activities. Black grouse, chamois and capercaillie will thank you for it!
Help to protect the sensitive mountain nature!
In a national park, the protection of nature is the primary goal. And for this to work, we need your help! Please adhere to the following rules to protect chamois, marmots and co:
- Take garbage back home with you
- Do not pick plants
- Keep dogs on a lead in the national park
- Stay on the paths - please do not walk cross-country or take shortcuts
- Do not disturb wild animals
- Do not camp or bivouac
- Do not light campfires
- Do not make noise
- Air mattresses, rubber boats and other flotation devices are prohibited
- Drones are not allowed to fly in the national park
- Cyclists must show consideration for hikers
Thank you for your understanding and for taking part!