The first objective of the national park is to allow nature to itself. That is why we strive to avoid human intervention in the heart of the protected area and that we allow nature to take its own course. The forest, for example, can grow old, decay and rebirth of herself. In addition, the useable area can continue its traditional function such as livestock grazing in summer, fish farming and tourist boat traffic on Königssee.

The transformation of the spruce forest (unnatural) in a mixed forest, more typical of the region, is encouraged by the planting of beech and pine. If necessary we will take steps (without harmful products) against the bark beetle to protect commercial forests bordering the national park.

I have not done your great schools and I've studied the best university that is: the great university of nature. "Revealed to the 'white man' Tatanga Mani, an American Indian.

To enable you, you also discover your senses with the natural variety that exists in the national park, we have developed an extensive program to learn about the environment.

The main information center is the Nationalpark-Haus in Berchtesgaden. There, with exhibitions, films, slides and books, among other things, you can learn all about the national park. Other information points are located at the entrances of the national park (Königssee, Wimbachbrücke, Klausbachtal), and St. Bartholomä the Königssee. Park staff is happy to inform you at the park also.

Research pursued by the National Park used to better understand the processes of nature. The lifestyle of the chamois or the golden eagle, and the long-term changes observed in a forest where no longer involved the hand of man are a few examples. These data are then used to better protection of plants and animals, and ecological use of land outside the park. The usefulness of the work of the park is not limited to its own purposes.

A varied program of themed walks is available free in summer as in winter. Whether you are looking to experience the wilderness during a long walk or you're interested in a particular theme, we adapt to the wishes of the most diverse visitors. During school holidays, we offer children and families in recreational activities and games. In our winter field program is supplemented by lectures at Nationalpark-Haus. Ask our current program and receive free information points or writing to us.

For a small fee upon request we organize group tours (7 persons min.), tailored to the interests of participants. Please contact us in advance with all necessary information. In addition we offer extra education for teachers, educators, team leaders, etc..

Nature is beautiful. Beauty must be preserved! You too can contribute to environmental protection by avoiding ...

A network of 230 km of hiking and mountaineering are ideal conditions for an enjoyable holiday. Some prefer walking in the valley, other circuits of several days at high altitude: there is something for everyone. Moreover, in summer, mountain huts serving food and a mattress for the night. Many cottages grazing serve refreshments 'home' during the summer.

Important: This panoramic map below serves only as an overview of the national park. For walking safe, we recommend hiking maps of Bayer. Landesvermessungsamt: "Nationalpark Berchtesgaden" or 1:25,000 map "Berchtesgadener Alpen" sold at 1:50.000 Nationalpark-Haus and in bookstores.

Walking in the Berchtesgaden National Park appeals to everyone. There are some who are attracted to the peaks, others are content with a relaxed stroll through the valley. That's why we offer hiking divided into four parts. In general, the goal is to practice a sport in alpine terrain, while following the advice of our employees. Essential: good walking shoes, warm clothing and waterproof, and a detailed hiking map to choose the circuit.

Relaxations walk ...

Ballads easy walking on well-groomed trails and no significant drop. Walking time: 1 to 2 h. . Refreshments available.

Malerwinkl-Rundweg

Trail length: 4 km; difference: approx. 100 m. Circuit: Since the pier village Königssee follow the wide path left until Malerwinkl shelters. The walkway then passes through a mixed forest to the gondola station of Jenner and from there back to Königssee.

Note: Allow enough time to enjoy the superb view while having the boat trip on the Lake Königssee to St. Bartholomä.

Obersee

Trail length: 2 km Circuit: From the pier Salet on Königssee the path leads through to Mittersee Obersee. Huge boulders scattered here and there evidence of an ancient landslide. You can follow the lake to reach Obersee Fischunkelalm (refreshments in summer) on the opposite bank or to return to Salet.

Note: Remember to go to the pier before the last departure! Short walks, large prints ...

Hikes of 2 to 3 hours with some steep slopes, for those physically fit and sure-footed. Refreshments are available to all the different paths.

Eiskapelle (Ice Chapel)

Trail length: approx. 6 km; difference: approx. 240 m Circuit: From the information point of the national park in St. Bartholomew, the trail skirts the lake surface to the chapel of St. John and St. Paul. It then climbs through the woods to the large field of avalanche falls at the foot of the east face of Mount Watzmann. Enter the same way.

Note: The shape and size of the 'ice chapel' vary each year, that's why it is not always easy to recognize. Please do not enter: the entrance of the glacier can easily collapse: Danger to life!

Halsalm Valley Klausbachtal

Trail length: approx. 6 km; difference: approx. 440 m Circuit: Starting from point information to the National Park Hintersee follow the paved road a short distance before veering to the right. A continued rise leads to Halsalm, a narrow path through the pasture to connect the shelter to a superb viewpoint on Hintersee and the Ramsau valley. Continue towards Ramsau and parking. From here a footpath runs along the road to the starting point. Note: With any luck you might spot the 'king of heaven', the golden eagle! Long drives that are worthwhile ...

Average slopes on the trails of the national park. Requirements: strong hiking shoes, endurance and a good snack? Length of walk: 6 to 8 pm.

Bindalm Valley Klausbachtal

Trail length 12 km, elevation: 320 m Circuit: From the information point of the national park to follow the valley Hintersee Klausbach on the flat to the hut Holzstube Engert. From there you will negotiate several steep climbs up Bindalm. Then you can either continue to the Austrian border to Hirschbichlpass or return via the same route. From May to October there is a regular bus service between Weißbach and Hintersee. Note: Klausbach Valley is ideal for mountain biking!

Wimbachtal

Trail length 18 km, elevation: 700 m Circuit: Starting Point National Park Information Wimbachbrücke to follow the paved road until Wimbachklamm (entrance fee to the throat). A gentle slope leads along the creek Wimbach and path through the woods to earn Wimbachschloß (refreshments in summer). Then you will alternate between a river bed and up a wooded path Wimbachgrieshütte (open summer only). Note: Above the valley Wimbach encountered a botanical rarity: the Spirken, a form of dwarf pine growing in height! Towards the peaks ...

Of day trips with steep slopes. Physical fitness and sure-footed are required. Strong walking shoes, break it? Crust and some snacks are essential!

Gotzenalm

Trail length 18 km; difference: approx. 1100 m Circuit: From the parking lot at Königssee, pass the station télébennes Jenner until the last houses. Take the right fork on the trail Hochbahnweg (No. 493). The shady forest path leads to the forest road you will follow up Königsbachalm (refreshments in summer). At the intersection, continue on the path 493 and, through many zigzags and Gotzentalalm you reach the top of the world, Gotzenalm (refreshments in summer). Enter either parking lot or down to the docks Hinterbrand Kessel or Salet in Königssee.

Note: In Gotzenalm a 10 min walk takes you to the point of view Feuerpalfen overlooking the peninsula of St. Bartholomä and Königssee!

Watzmannhaus

Trail length 12 km; difference: approx. 1300 m Circuit: Starting from point information to the National Park Wimbachbrücke cross the bridge and turn immediately right on the path 441. Follow it up and Stubenalm Mitterkaseralm. From here the road turns into a footpath and goes through to arrive at the shelter Falzalm Watzmannhaus (summer).

Note: Those wishing to 'conquer' the peaks of Mount Watzmann must have experience, be fit and well equipped!

Our office information is open daily, except Sundays and holidays, from 9h to 17h

Information Centre Nationalpark-Haus

Franziskanerplatz 7
D-83471 Berchtesgaden, FRG
Tel: +49 8652 64343
Fax: +49 8652 69434
Open all year.

Information Office in St. Bartholomä

Only when boat traffic.

Information Desk at Wimbachbrücke

Wimbachweg 2
D-83486 Ramsau, FRG
Open all year.

Information Desk at Hintersee

Hirschbichlstraße 26
D-83486 Ramsau, FRG
Tel: +49 8657 1431
Fax: +49 8657 985935
For further information:

Nationalparkverwaltung Berchtesgaden

Doktorberg 6
D-83471 Berchtesgaden, FRG
Tel: +49 8652 9686-0
Fax: +49 8652 9686-40
E-Mail: Poststelle