The Partnachklamm is a gorge about 700 metres long carved by the Partnach river, with walls rising up to eighty metres in places. A path cut into the rock and through short tunnels runs beside the water, and you walk close enough to feel the spray. In winter the effect is dramatic: icicles, frozen waterfalls and snow along the entrance trail, with fewer visitors than in summer. The walk begins at the Olympic ski stadium, which is a short bus ride or a walk of about half an hour from the centre of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, then about thirty-five minutes on a trail to the gorge entrance. Plan on two to three hours for the whole outing including the gorge. Entry costs around ten euros for adults, with children charged less, and tickets can be bought online or at the gate. Paths can be wet and slippery, so wear proper shoes with grip, and note that strollers and wheelchairs cannot use the narrow path. Check the gorge operator's website before you go, because sections can be closed for ice, snow melt or repair.
The gorge is one of the most atmospheric short walks in the Bavarian Alps, but the details matter in winter. Usual hours run roughly from eight to six outside the high season, with last entry half an hour before closing, but these are guides rather than guarantees. Spring thaw and heavy snow can close part of the route, and rockfall and ice have closed it before. Treat the first check of the day as the gorge website or the local tourist office.
The approach is part of the pleasure. From Garmisch you walk or take the ski-stadium bus, passing the Olympic ski jump, and then follow the trail along the valley to the gorge entrance. The tunnels have lighting but can be dark and drip with water, so a rain jacket helps. A one-day ticket allows you to exit at the far end and re-enter, and some visitors continue on a longer walk to the Eckbauer cable car or Graseck.
As a travel plan, the gorge works well with the Zugspitze, since both are near Garmisch. The tour linked for this entry is a guided day trip from Munich that combines the Eibsee, the Zugspitze, the Partnach Gorge and Mittenwald, which is useful if you do not have a car. Check the tour description for what is included and for the latest winter operating dates, and have a plan B if the gorge or the mountain is closed. Dress in layers and bring a camera that tolerates damp conditions.
What to expect
The experience
A walk along a rock-cut path and through tunnels beside a rushing river in a narrow gorge, reached by a trail from the Olympic ski stadium.
Best time
Winter days for icicles and quiet; weekday mornings to avoid queues.
How long
Two to three hours including the approach walk.
Tips
Check the gorge status online, wear grippy shoes and a rain jacket, and avoid taking a stroller or wheelchair.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Walkers who want a dramatic natural sight without a long hike.
- Families
- Fine for walkers in good shoes, but the path is narrow and wet and not suitable for strollers.
- Couples
- A winter walk with ice formations and a hot drink afterwards.
- Pair with
- The Zugspitze and Garmisch-Partenkirchen town.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How long is the Partnachklamm?+
The gorge is about 700 metres long, and the walk through takes under an hour, with the approach adding more time.
Is it open in winter?+
Usually yes, with icicles and snow, but sections can close for safety, so check the gorge website or the tourist office before you go.
How much does entry cost?+
Around ten euros for adults and less for children, though prices change. Tickets can be bought online or at the gate.
How do I get there from Garmisch?+
By bus to the Olympic ski stadium or on foot in about half an hour, then roughly thirty-five minutes on a trail to the entrance.
Can I take a stroller or wheelchair?+
No, the path is too narrow and uneven for strollers and wheelchairs.
