Cycling in Garmisch-Partenkirchen: The best cycle routes at the foot of the Zugspitze

​The Bavarian Alpine region at the foot of the Zugspitze offers cyclists a range of routes at different levels of difficulty. Between the Wetterstein massif and the Zugspitze, trails wind through shady forests, along gravel tracks and to vantage points offering panoramic mountain views. The network of routes ranges from the 13.5-kilometre-long family adventure tour to Farchant, with an elevation gain of 28 metres, to the challenging tour to the Königshaus am Schachen, covering 36.11 kilometres and an elevation gain of 1,335 metres. Since May 2026, the network of trails has been extended to include the Zugspitze Bike Park in Ehrwald added.

5 hiking tips around Garmisch-Partenkirchen

​Family adventure walk to Farchant: approx. 14 km | 28 metres elevation gain

The perfect way for the whole family to get started on a cycling adventure: the tour begins at the idyllic Michael Ende Spa Gardens in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and follows flat paths to Farchant. With an elevation gain of just 28 metres, the route is ideal even for the youngest cyclists. Along the way, playgrounds invite you to let off steam and take a break. If you’d like, you can plan a detour to the historic Werdenfels castle ruins or visit the impressive Kuhflucht waterfalls – an unforgettable experience for young and old alike.

Gravel ride – A family ride around Garmisch-Partenkirchen: 14 km | 96 metres of elevation gain

This enjoyable gravel tour around Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers a pure experience of nature. Following gravel paths and country lanes, this family-friendly route takes you past the picturesque Riessersee, across vast fields and lush meadows. The impressive mountain panorama of the Zugspitze region accompanies cyclists throughout the entire route. Mountain huts along the way invite you to stop for a well-deserved break and enjoy regional specialities – the ideal combination of exercise, nature and Bavarian delights.

Bike & Hike Hausberg: 23 km | 667 metres of elevation gain | for mountain bikers & e-bikers

This varied tour combines the best of both worlds: mountain biking and hiking. The climb up the local mountain demands stamina and technical skill, but rewards you with magnificent views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Once at the top, it’s well worth taking a walk from the local mountain over to the Kreuzjoch – the legendary starting point of the Kandahar World Cup downhill run. Those travelling by e-bike can enjoy the climb at a leisurely pace and still have enough energy left for the walk once they reach the top.

Tour to the Royal Residence at Schachen: 36 km | 1,335 metres of elevation gain | for mountain bikers and e-mountain bikers

The ultimate cycling challenge in Garmisch-Partenkirchen leads to the historic Königshaus on the Schachen. This demanding route requires both physical fitness and technical skill, but in return offers an unforgettable mountain panorama with unbeatable views across the entire region. At the finish, alongside the impressive Königshaus, you’ll find the fascinating Alpine Botanical Garden – a unique combination of nature, history and an alpine experience at an altitude of over 1,800 metres.

From the Olympia Ski Stadium through the Reintal valley: approx. 21 km | approx. 1,300 metres of elevation gain | for mountain bikers and e-bike riders

This tour is one of the most beautiful and impressive in the entire region. Starting from the Olympic Ski Stadium, the route leads into the wild and romantic Reintal valley, following the rushing Partnach river through one of Bavaria’s most impressive gorges. Steep climbs and technically challenging trails alternate with magnificent views of the Wetterstein massif. Those tackling the route on an e-mountain bike can enjoy the natural scenery to the full – a real highlight for anyone wishing to experience authentic Bavaria.

Information & further tour recommendations

The health resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, renowned for its therapeutic climate, is a great place for cycling from summer right through to autumn. October and November bring a quieter atmosphere and the colours of autumn to the landscape.

Information, GPS data, further tour suggestions around Garmisch-Partenkirchen and a cycling map can be found at https://www.gapa-tourismus.de