4.6
(38944)
146,776
hikers
477
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Kleiner Arbersee navigate a landscape shaped by glacial activity, featuring a unique Karsee lake with floating peat islands. Dense forests cover the surrounding terrain, which is characterized by steep karst walls and the prominent summits of Kleiner Arber and Großer Arber. This region in the Bavarian Forest offers diverse natural features, including waterfalls and moor flora.
Last updated: September 28, 2026
4.7
(152)
618
hikers
10.1km
02:52
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(68)
269
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

4.7
(19)
80
hikers
8.33km
02:41
370m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(7)
32
hikers
20.4km
06:59
830m
830m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(2)
58
hikers
4.03km
01:14
160m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
An approx. 2 km long, easy-to-walk circular trail leads around the impressive Großer Arbersee. Parking unfortunately costs a whole 4 Euros! Food and drink are also available on site.
1
0
The floating islands on Großer Arbersee and Kleiner Arbersee in the Bavarian Forest are unique, ice-age natural phenomena made of so-called floating fens, which have no firm connection to the lakebed. They were formed in the 19th century when both cirque lakes were artificially dammed for timber rafting. As a result, the densely rooted peat mats detached from the ground and have since floated on the water's surface.
7
0
The circular route around the Großer Arbersee in the Bavarian Forest is a very easy walk. The route leads right through an ice-age nature reserve past dense coniferous forests, an impressive cliff face, and the famous floating islands.
7
0
In clear weather, you can see both the summit structure of the Großer Arber with its observation tower and ski area, as well as the Alps in the distance!
0
0
In clear weather, you can see both the summit structure of the Großer Arber with its observation tower and ski area, as well as the Alps chain in the distance!
0
0
Chamer Hütte is a very nice resting place
0
0
Enjoy the wonderful views from the sun terrace and the cozy Bavarian atmosphere at the Berghaus Sonnenfels (1,150 m above sea level), located directly at the foot of the Arber – the highest mountain in the Bavarian Forest. Source and information: https://www.bayerischer-wald.de/attraktion/berghaus-sonnenfels-bewirtschaftet-9b5c737791
4
0
There are over 450 hiking trails accessible from bus stations around Kleiner Arbersee, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels.
Yes, Kleiner Arbersee offers nearly 190 easy hiking routes from bus stations. A great option is the 2 km Little Arber Lake – View of the Kleiner Arbersee loop from Kleiner Arbersee, which provides stunning views of the lake and its unique floating islands.
Absolutely. For experienced hikers, there are over 70 difficult routes. Consider the demanding Little Arber Lake – Great Arber Lake loop from Großer Arber, which covers nearly 19 km with significant elevation gain, leading towards the highest peaks of the Bavarian Forest.
Many trails offer views of the region's unique natural features. You can explore the Little Arber Lake itself, famous for its floating islands at the Kleiner Arbersee. The area is also known for its glacial landscapes and dense forests. During snowmelt, you might even spot impressive waterfalls cascading over steep karst walls.
Yes, many routes are designed as loops for convenience. The 10 km Great Arber Lake – Arbersee Bog loop from Großer Arber is a moderate circular hike that allows you to experience diverse landscapes without retracing your steps.
Spring, summer, and autumn are ideal. Spring offers the spectacle of melting snow feeding waterfalls, while summer provides lush greenery. Autumn brings vibrant foliage. Winter hiking is possible, but trails may be snowy or icy, requiring appropriate gear and caution.
Yes, the region has many easy paths suitable for families. The 2 km Little Arber Lake – View of the Kleiner Arbersee loop from Kleiner Arbersee is a gentle walk around the lake, though some sections might not be suitable for strollers. Look for routes marked as 'easy' for the most family-friendly options.
Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in the Kleiner Arbersee region, especially if kept on a leash. As the area is a nature reserve, always ensure your dog is under control to protect wildlife and other hikers. Check specific trail regulations if you plan to visit very sensitive areas.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene atmosphere, the unique floating islands at the Kleiner Arbersee, and the well-maintained trails that offer stunning views of the Bavarian Forest.
Yes, after a hike, you can find places to relax. The Seehäusl restaurant, located on the western shore of the Little Arber Lake, is a popular spot to enjoy the scenery. There are also huts like the Chamer Hut accessible via some trails.
Yes, some bus-accessible trails can lead to impressive viewpoints or summits. While direct bus stops at the very top are rare, many routes start from bus stations and ascend towards peaks like the Kleiner Arber Summit (1,384 m), offering panoramic views of the surrounding Bavarian Forest.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.