The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Kleiner Arbersee
4.6
(37933)
146,964
hikers
997
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Kleiner Arbersee are set within the Bavarian Forest, a region characterized by a glacial lake, dense forests, and imposing rock faces. The landscape features unique "floating islands" on Kleiner Arbersee itself, a relic from the Ice Age. Hikers can explore a variety of terrains, from easy lakeside paths to more challenging ascents towards the Arber mountains. The area is a protected natural reserve, offering diverse natural features for exploration.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Kleiner Arbersee
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Rißloch Waterfall Upper Bridge – Riesloch Falls loop from Großer Arber, a 4.6 miles (7.5 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 25 minutes to complete. This moderate route leads through impressive waterfall scenery.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Großer Seeriegel – Panoramic View from Großer Arber loop from Großer Arber, a moderate 1.4 miles (2.3 km) path. This shorter trail offers panoramic views from Großer Arber with a manageable elevation gain.
- Local hikers also love the View of Großer Arber – Panoramic View from Großer Arber loop from Großer Arber, a 6.2 miles (10.0 km) trail leading through forested areas and offering expansive vistas, often completed in about 3 hours 12 minutes.
- Hiking in Kleiner Arbersee is defined by glacial lake views, dense forests, and impressive rock formations. The network offers options for various ability levels, from gentle lakeside strolls to more strenuous mountain ascents.
- The routes in Kleiner Arbersee are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 37,000 reviews. More than 150,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Kleiner Arbersee's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 5, 2026
4.7
(413)
1,911
hikers
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.8
(51)
254
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.8
(150)
665
hikers
2.16km
00:41
80m
80m
Hard hike. Great for any fitness level. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
1
hikers
7.27km
02:25
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(30)
145
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The ascent from the Großer Arbersee to the summit (approx. 7 km, over 600 meters in altitude) is a challenging mountain running route with a great panorama.
4
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A beautiful little hike if you don't "have to" climb the peaks 🤪 but just want to see something beautiful. But be careful, because it's easily accessible, there's more foot traffic here than at Rachelsee or Latschensee. But less than at Großer Arbersee.🐑🐾🐾
0
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Right next to the mountain station and the toilets there, a chairlift bench is available.
1
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A great trail that starts right at the Charmer Hut and leads down to the forest road. Don't be fooled by the flowing start; the trail is mostly S1, with a few S2 sections. It's therefore not suitable for beginners. There are plenty of roots and rocks with a few larger steps that require careful tracking. For those who have mastered it, however, it's a great trail that you should definitely ride while you're here.
2
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A little information about how the trees were sawn down here. Not really credible, as the stumps often still have bark beetle larvae under the bark...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Kleiner Arbersee?
There are over 360 easy family-friendly hiking routes in the Kleiner Arbersee area, with many more moderate options suitable for families looking for a bit more challenge. In total, komoot lists nearly 1000 hiking tours in the region.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Kleiner Arbersee?
The komoot community rates the trails in Kleiner Arbersee highly, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 37,000 ratings. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the unique floating islands, and the well-maintained paths suitable for families.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families around Kleiner Arbersee?
Yes, the area is well-known for its circular trails. An easy-to-walk circular path, approximately 1.5 km long, directly loops around the Kleiner Arbersee, offering serene views and a chance to see the famous floating islands. Longer loops are also available.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly hikes in Kleiner Arbersee?
Many trails in the Kleiner Arbersee region are dog-friendly, allowing your furry family members to join the adventure. However, always keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas like the Kleiner Arbersee nature reserve, to protect local wildlife.
What natural landmarks or viewpoints can we see on family hikes?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the unique floating islands at the Kleiner Arbersee, which drift freely with the wind. The Kleiner Arber Summit (1,384 m) offers stunning panoramic views, and with a bit of imagination, you might spot the Richard Wagner Head Rock Formation.
Are there any waterfalls accessible on family-friendly trails?
Yes, the Kleiner Arbersee area features impressive waterfalls. The Riesloch Waterfalls, among Bavaria's highest, are a spectacular sight. You can experience them on routes like the Rißloch Waterfall Upper Bridge – Riesloch Falls loop from Großer Arber, which is a moderate hike suitable for families with older children.
Where can we find refreshments or a place to eat after a hike?
There are several options for refreshments. The Seehäusl, a lakeside restaurant, is known for its old Bavarian potato soup. For those hiking higher, the Chamer Hut near the Kleiner Arber summit offers simple cold and hot dishes. There are also other huts listed in the Huts and Cabins in Kleiner Arbersee guide.
What is the best time of year for family hikes in Kleiner Arbersee?
The warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, are ideal for family hikes in Kleiner Arbersee. The weather is generally pleasant, and all trails are accessible. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides lush greenery and comfortable temperatures.
Are there any trails that offer views of both Großer Arber and Kleiner Arber?
Absolutely. Trails like the View of the Großer Arber – Kleiner Arber Summit (1,384 m) loop from Großer Arber provide stunning perspectives of both the highest mountain in the Bavarian Forest and its smaller counterpart, offering diverse scenery for families.
Is public transport available to reach the trailheads?
Yes, public transport and hiking buses can facilitate access to various starting points for many routes around Kleiner Arbersee. This allows families to plan point-to-point hikes or reach more remote trailheads without needing a car.
Are there any longer, moderate family hikes with good views?
For families seeking a longer adventure with rewarding views, consider the View of Großer Arber – Panoramic View from Großer Arber loop from Großer Arber. This moderate 10 km route offers expansive vistas and a fulfilling hiking experience.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Kleiner Arbersee?
The terrain varies from easy, flat paths around the lake to more challenging, rocky ascents towards the summits of Kleiner Arber and Großer Arber. Many trails are well-maintained forest paths, but some sections may require sure-footedness and sturdy shoes, especially on moderate routes.
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