The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Höglwörther Lake
4.6
(8037)
43,609
hikers
532
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Höglwörther Lake are set within a landscape shaped by the ancient Saalach glacier, featuring a serene lake surrounded by mixed forests and lush meadows. The area offers diverse terrain, from flat lakeside paths to routes with gentle ascents, providing panoramic views of surrounding mountains like Untersberg and Hochstaufen. Hikers can explore trails that pass by waterfalls and the historic Kloster Höglwörth, situated on a peninsula. The natural features include clear waters, ancient beech trees, and several cascades, offering varied scenery for family outings.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Höglwörther Lake
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is West shore of Lake Höglwörth – Cascade waterfall loop from Anger, a 2.1 miles (3.4 km) trail that takes about 55 minutes to complete. This easy route explores the lake's western shore and features a cascade waterfall.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Cascade waterfall – View from Anger Cemetery loop from Anger, an easy 4.0 miles (6.5 km) path. This route offers views from Anger Cemetery and passes by a cascade waterfall, traversing varied terrain.
- Local hikers also love the Lake Höglwörth – Cascade waterfall loop from Anger, a 2.4 miles (3.8 km) trail leading through lakeside paths and forest, often completed in about 1 hour 4 minutes.
- Hiking around Höglwörther Lake is defined by mixed forests, lush meadows, and the tranquil lake itself. The network offers options for different ability levels, from short, easy strolls to longer, moderately challenging routes.
- The routes in Höglwörther Lake are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 7,800 reviews. More than 43,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Höglwörther Lake's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
4.8
(70)
386
hikers
3.39km
00:55
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(26)
155
hikers
6.51km
01:46
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(7)
27
hikers
3.84km
01:04
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(10)
50
hikers
4.93km
01:19
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
12
hikers
7.48km
02:03
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A small power plant was built on this site around 1925, supplying electricity to the monastery and two farms. It was powered by water from the Schornbach and Höglwörther Seebach streams, which were dammed for this purpose in a pond high on the slope. Later, the hydropower was augmented by a diesel engine. Operations ceased in the summer of 1962. The pipeline can still be seen here today.
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Former German pastry champion Maria Hinterstoißer offers homemade cakes and tarts as well as savory snacks and snacks during the summer months in her lakeside café "Maria" on the northern shore of Lake Höglwörth.
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Although the Berchtesgadener Land is a biosphere reserve and the area around Lake Höglwörth is a landscape conservation area, bathing and swimming in the lake is permitted at two designated spots. Opposite the larger bathing area on the northern shore of the lake, there is a small beach with lake access here in the south.
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Although the Berchtesgadener Land is a biosphere reserve and the area around Lake Höglwörth is a landscape conservation area, bathing and swimming in the lake is permitted at two designated spots. The lakeside bathing area dates back to a time long before the conservation area was declared. It is the larger of the two bathing spots and is located on the northern shore of the lake, with a lawn and a small jetty. The Lakeside Café is also located here.
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The Schornbach and Höglwörther Seebach streams, both of which rise in the hills west of the A8 motorway, merge in a pond above Lake Höglwörth. From there, the lake's largest tributary cascades through the forest, plunging more than 30 meters down the slope to the west of the lake, via numerous stone cascades.
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A traditional Bavarian inn, located in the Rupertiwinkel region next to the former Höglwörth Monastery for 150 years, overlooking the picturesque Höglwörth Lake. Committed to tradition, modernity, and above all, quality, the "Klosterwirt" offers hearty, regional dishes with an international influence, including vegetarian and vegan options. It has its own fish farm, an in-house butcher shop, and its own patisserie. A Bavarian inn is, of course, nothing without a great beer: just five kilometers away is the 350-year-old Wieninger private brewery, whose brews are served here. There's also a beer garden with venerable chestnut trees and a view of the shimmering Höglwörth Lake and the monastery. For those who want to stay overnight, the inn offers two double rooms.
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The lake was formed as a terminal moraine lake after the melting of the Salzach Glacier about 10,000 years ago. Today, it is subject to inexorable silting. The lake, which is up to six and a half meters deep, is home to numerous animal species. A hiker can walk around it in just over half an hour. The views of Höglwörth Monastery, located on a peninsula in the lake, are remarkable.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Höglwörther Lake?
The Höglwörther Lake region offers a wide variety of hiking experiences. You'll find over 250 easy routes that are perfect for families, ensuring there's always a suitable option for a pleasant outing.
What makes Höglwörther Lake a good destination for family hikes?
Höglwörther Lake is ideal for families due to its serene, warm waters perfect for swimming in summer, and its gentle, well-maintained paths through mixed forests and meadows. The area provides plenty of shade, diverse wildlife, and scenic views, making it an engaging and comfortable environment for all ages.
Are there any stroller-friendly or accessible trails suitable for very young children?
Yes, the immediate circular paths around Höglwörther Lake are generally flat and wide, making them suitable for strollers and young children. These paths offer easy access to the lake's shores and attractions like the monastery.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family around Höglwörther Lake?
The area is beautiful year-round, but late spring to early autumn (May to September) is particularly pleasant. The lake is warm enough for swimming in summer, and the surrounding forests offer vibrant colors in autumn. The pleasant shade from ancient beech trees makes summer hikes comfortable.
Can we see any waterfalls on the family-friendly trails?
Absolutely! Several routes incorporate waterfalls. For example, the West shore of Lake Höglwörth – Cascade waterfall loop from Anger is an easy, short trail that takes you past a beautiful cascade waterfall, a highlight for many families.
Are there any historical landmarks or interesting sights to explore along the routes?
Yes, the most prominent landmark is the former Höglwörth Monastery, an impressive castle complex situated on a peninsula. Many trails offer views of this historic site. You can also visit the Höglwörth Lake itself, which is a highlight.
Are there opportunities for swimming after a hike?
Definitely! Höglwörther Lake is known as one of Bavaria's warmest lakes and has several freely accessible bathing spots. The La Petite Maison du Lac – Höglwörth Lake Bath and the swimming spot on the south shore are popular choices to cool off after a family hike.
Are the trails around Höglwörther Lake suitable for dogs?
Many trails around Höglwörther Lake are dog-friendly, offering a great opportunity to explore with your furry companion. It's always a good idea to keep dogs on a leash, especially near wildlife and other hikers, and to respect local regulations regarding swimming areas.
Is there parking available near the family-friendly trailheads?
Yes, there are parking options available in and around Anger, which serves as a common starting point for many trails around Höglwörther Lake. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions.
Can I reach the hiking trails around Höglwörther Lake by public transport?
While the area is primarily accessed by car, some local bus services connect surrounding towns to the Höglwörther Lake area. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and timings to plan your visit.
Are there circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, circular routes are a popular choice for families around Höglwörther Lake. The Cascade waterfall – View from Anger Cemetery loop from Anger is a great option, offering a slightly longer but still easy circular path with varied scenery.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails around Höglwörther Lake?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.57 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the clear lake for swimming, the picturesque Höglwörth Monastery, and the well-maintained paths that make hiking enjoyable for all ages.
Can you recommend an easy, short loop for families with young children?
For a delightful and easy short loop, consider the Lake Höglwörth – Cascade waterfall loop from Anger. It's just under 4 km and offers beautiful lake views and a waterfall, perfect for little legs.
Are there any slightly longer family hikes that still offer easy terrain?
If you're looking for a bit more distance without increasing difficulty, the Cascade waterfall – Lake Höglwörth loop from Anger is an excellent choice. At nearly 5 km, it provides a relaxed walk through varied landscapes, including the waterfall and lake views.
Most popular routes around Höglwörther Lake
Most popular attractions around Höglwörther Lake
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