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Cross-country skiing in Bavaria - trails in the mountains

Snow-covered mountains, freshly groomed cross-country ski trails, pristine nature: a paradise for cross-country skiers. Whether classic cross-country skiing or skating – in Bavaria, winter sports enthusiasts will find everything they could wish for in the Ammergau Alps.

From easy trails for beginners to challenging routes for ambitious cross-country skiers, the Ammergau Alps offer a diverse range of trails for every fitness level. The stunning scenery provides opportunities for other unforgettable winter sports activities.

Are you planning a cross-country skiing holiday in Bavaria or are you already there and would like more information? Get an overview of the cross-country skiing opportunities in Bavaria here.

Cross-country skiing in Bavaria

The Ammergau Alps offer around 180 km of cross-country ski trails, that could hardly be more diverse.
It doesn't matter whether you want to glide relaxed over the powder snow with your skis or skate dynamically. A special feature of the Cross-country ski trails in the nature park is that you travel almost exclusively on natural snow. In the shady Graswangtal the cross-country ski trail conditions are particularly stable and from there you can also View of Germany's highest mountain, the Zugspitze.
A running feeling like in central Sweden is guaranteed by the mountain pine moor between Bad Kohlgrub and Bad Bayersoien.

 

 

Winter vacation in the Ammergau Alps

The difficulty levels of the trails in the Ammergau Alps are at an easy level (blue/easy) and are therefore suitable for beginners and advanced skiers alike. From January 1.1st, there will be an illuminated training trail (night trail until 21 p.m.) in the starting area of ​​the King Ludwig Run - the so-called Benedictine Arena. 

 

Near Bad Bayersoien:

 

Near Bad Kohlgrub:

 

At Ettal:

Near Oberammergau:

 

At Saulgrub:

 

Near Unterammergau:

Every trail around the nature park communities has its own charm. Take a look at the overview of the cross-country ski trail network in the Ammergau Alps Nature Park . By the way, you don't have to pay any trail fees for your cross-country skiing holiday in the Ammergau Alps. Here in southern Bavaria, you only have to pay for parking.

Cross-country skiing on the Graswangrunde - on the König-Ludwig-Loipe

The Graswangrunde is an absolute highlight of the cross-country ski trails in the Ammergau Alps Nature Park – a 12,5 km loop with an impressive 105 meters of elevation gain, perfect for experienced cross-country skiers seeking a sporting milestone. It is part of the 50 km König-Ludwig-Loipe (King Ludwig Trail) , whose royal splendor attracts winter sports enthusiasts far beyond the region's borders.

The cross-country ski trail, named after the former Bavarian king, leads through the wildly romantic and picturesque landscape of Graswang, past the baroque Benedictine Abbey of Ettal, to Linderhof Palace. The King Ludwig Trail in Bavaria provides an equally impressive and media-friendly backdrop for the annual King Ludwig Run. At the beginning of February, around 3.000 to 5.000 enthusiastic cross-country skiers gather here for the popular event – ​​affectionately known as the "Luggi Run."

Snow-sure cross-country ski trail network in Bavaria

During the winter months, cross-country skiing isn't always a sure thing in Bavaria. But when it snows in Bavaria, it's almost guaranteed to snow in the Ammergau Alps. This makes the Ammergau Alps one of the most snow-sure cross-country ski trail networks in Bavaria. Here in the Ammergau Alps Nature Park, experienced staff regularly groom the trails , ensuring that even in poor snow conditions, you 'll find perfectly prepared tracks . Even extended periods of warm weather pose no problem for the trail maintenance team.

Here in the Ammergau Alps Nature Park, nature is of paramount importance. Therefore, our cross-country ski trails are not covered with artificial snow. Furthermore, many of our trails run through nature reserves.

Cross-country ski trails for beginners and professionals

Cross-country skiing in Bavaria offers something for everyone , from beginners to advanced skiers, on the trails of the Ammergau Alps. Many of the circular trails are designed so you can easily join and leave them at any point. Parking near the trails provides quick access to your cross-country skiing adventure on many routes . Planning a spontaneous cross-country skiing trip in Bavaria or want to travel light?

Rent your equipment locally. The rental ski schools have everything you need for your cross-country skiing holiday in the Ammergau Alps.

Hotels and alternative accommodation for cross-country skiers

Looking to unwind after an exciting day on the slopes ? If that sounds appealing, it's time to explore the many accommodations near the cross-country ski trails . Choose from a variety of options, including a hotel with or without breakfast, a holiday apartment, a cozy guesthouse, or a traditional farmhouse with its rustic charm. There are also special King Ludwig Cross partner hotels where you can stay during your cross-country skiing holiday in Bavaria.

Do you have any questions about your stay in the nature park?

Feel free to give us a call. We advise you, give you tips and answer all your questions about the Ammergau Alps.

Ammergau Alps Tourist Information Team

Cross-country skiing in Bavaria with children

Since the wonderful winter landscape of the Ammergau Alps reveals itself in many facets, you can also enjoy unforgettable cross-country skiing adventures here with children . As a holiday destination for the whole family, the network of cross-country ski trails allows children to discover the fascination of cross-country skiing and is therefore an attractive and child-friendly alternative to downhill skiing and tobogganing. To avoid overexerting the little ones, the tour from Oberammergau to Unterammergau is an excellent solution. This 5,6 km route has a gentle elevation gain of only 54 meters and can be easily managed by children – without skating or straight runs.

Rules for cross-country skiing on the trail

What the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) are for vehicles, the FIS rules are for cross-country skiing. To ensure your cross-country skiing experience in Bavaria remains relaxing, it's important to observe a few guidelines based on mutual consideration. First and foremost, it's crucial to follow the designated direction of travel on the trail. In some cases, the required skiing technique is also specified. If you 're enjoying cross-country skiing with others , ski single file and – just like when driving a car – always on the right-hand side.

Downhill cross-country skiers have the right of way over oncoming skiers who are still cresting a hill. You are free to overtake a slower skier on the right or left. When overtaking, remember to maintain sufficient distance so that you don't impede each other. Keeping a safe distance from skiers ahead is a fundamental rule of cross-country skiing and applies even when not overtaking. Keep your poles close to your body. To avoid obstructing other skiers on the trail, clear the track promptly if you fall. This also applies to photo breaks or other rest stops.

All cross-country ski trails at a glance

Cross-country ski trail - Ettaler Runde
3,92 km
34 m
0: 30 pm
34 m
Cross-country skiing · easy
Ammergauer Straße, 82488 Ettal
Connecting trail Bad Kohlgrub - Saulgrub
5,28 km
49 m
0: 40 pm
68 m
Cross-country skiing · medium
Adele-Gerhard-Straße, 82433 Bad Kohlgrub
Cross-country skiing in the Ammergau Alps
Cross-country ski trail - Saulgruber round
6,92 km
95 m
0: 45 pm
95 m
Cross-country skiing · medium
Achelestraße, 82442 Saulgrub
Cross-country skiing in the Ammergau Alps
Cross-country ski trail - Hans Reicherl round
7,76 km
24 m
0: 45 pm
24 m
Cross-country skiing · easy
Malensteinweg, 82487 Oberammergau
Cross-country skiing in the Ammergau Alps
Cross-country ski trail - Kirmesauer Runde
9,33 km
65 m
1: 00 pm
65 m
Cross-country skiing · medium
Kirmesauer Straße, 82435 Bad Bayersoien
Cross-country ski trail - Kochelfilzrunde
4,83 km
35 m
0: 30 pm
35 m
Cross-country skiing · easy
Kochelstraße, 82442 Saulgrub
Cross-country ski trail - Graswangrunde
12,46 km
105 m
1: 20 pm
105 m
Cross-country skiing · medium
Ammergauer Straße, 82488 Ettal
Cross-country skiing in the Ammergau Alps
Cross-country ski trail - Scherenauer Runde
3,17 km
41 m
0: 20 pm
41 m
Cross-country skiing · medium
Scherenauer Straße, 82497 Unterammergau
Cross-country skiing in the Ammergau Alps
Cross-country ski trail - Dickelschwaig round
2,95 km
15 m
0: 20 pm
15 m
Cross-country skiing · easy
At the Griesbrücke, 82488 Ettal
Cross-country ski trail - Buchwaldrunde
3,36 km
37 m
0: 20 pm
37 m
Cross-country skiing · medium
Unternogg, 82442 Saulgrub
Cross-country skiing in the Ammergau Alps
Cross-country ski trail - Great Rochus circuit
10,43 km
85 m
1: 00 pm
86 m
Cross-country skiing · medium
Vogelherdstraße, 82433 Bad Kohlgrub
Cross-country skiing in the Ammergau Alps
Cross-country ski trail - small Rochus circuit
4,12 km
38 m
0: 20 pm
24 m
Cross-country skiing · medium
Vogelherdstraße, 82433 Bad Kohlgrub

Frequently asked questions about cross-country skiing in Bavaria:

Which is the right technique for cross-country skiing beginners?

A basic distinction is made between the classic cross-country skiing technique and skating. Skating corresponds to the technique known from ice skating and requires excellent muscle strength in the legs. Therefore, the classic technique is more recommended for beginners. This involves pulling one leg after the other. The arms move in opposite directions and therefore diagonally.

How does braking work when cross-country skiing?

To reduce speed, move your non-dominant foot so that the tip of your cross-country ski is pointing toward the tip of the other ski. Angle the ski slightly inwards. So you press your body weight onto the snow and that slows you down. With this so-called half plow, the dominant foot remains in the trail. If you're skating, bring both tips together in a two-sided plow.

What clothing is suitable for cross-country skiing in Bavaria?

Since you can quickly work up a sweat when cross-country skiing, the multi-layered onion look is recommended. Breathable materials are important to avoid a build-up of body heat and moisture in the textiles. The latter increases the risk of hypothermia. Thin gloves also help against blisters and cold.

Which is the most beautiful cross-country skiing route in the Ammergau Alps Nature Park?

The cross-country ski trail network in the Ammergau Alps impresses with its diversity. Depending on your mood and fitness level, choosing the most beautiful trail in the region is a personal decision. However, most visitors agree that the Graswang circuit is among the most beautiful trails in the Ammergau Alps. With its fascinatingly varied panoramas, offering views as far as the Zugspitze and towards Linderhof Palace, it is the most popular route in the nature park. Furthermore, its shady location ensures relatively reliable snow conditions.