Partnach Gorge
Experience the raw power of nature in this stunning Bavarian gorge, with cascading waterfalls and a unique walkway through sculpted rock.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Partnach Gorge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the raw power of nature in this stunning Bavarian gorge, with cascading waterfalls and a unique walkway through sculpted rock.
"This place is amazing and so beautiful. U walk through it and wonder how nature works."
Wear Waterproofs & Good Shoes
Expect to get wet! Waterproofs and sturdy, non-slip shoes are a must for the slippery paths. :athletic_shoe: :umbrella:
Bring a Flashlight
Some areas can be dim, especially on overcast days. A flashlight helps navigate and see the details. :flashlight:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gorge Walkway
Inside the gorge
Navigate narrow paths, tunnels, and wooden walkways carved into the rock face, with water cascading around you.
Cascading Waterfalls
Throughout the gorge
Witness the raw power of nature as water tumbles down moss-covered cliffs, creating a dramatic and refreshing spectacle.
Winter Ice Formations
Inside the gorge (winter)
Experience the gorge transformed into a magical ice wonderland with stunning icicles and frozen cascades.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Dress for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Waterproofs & Good Shoes
Expect to get wet! Waterproofs and sturdy, non-slip shoes are a must for the slippery paths. :athletic_shoe: :umbrella:
Bring a Flashlight
Some areas can be dim, especially on overcast days. A flashlight helps navigate and see the details. :flashlight:
Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets in advance and screenshot them, as reception is spotty inside the gorge. :ticket:
Consider the Hike Back
The walk above the gorge on the way back offers picturesque views and is a pleasant contrast to the enclosed gorge. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Waterproofs & Good Shoes
Expect to get wet! Waterproofs and sturdy, non-slip shoes are a must for the slippery paths. :athletic_shoe: :umbrella:
Bring a Flashlight
Some areas can be dim, especially on overcast days. A flashlight helps navigate and see the details. :flashlight:
Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets in advance and screenshot them, as reception is spotty inside the gorge. :ticket:
Consider the Hike Back
The walk above the gorge on the way back offers picturesque views and is a pleasant contrast to the enclosed gorge. :hiking_boot:
Go Early or Late
To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for early morning or late afternoon visits. :clock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Partnach Gorge is overwhelmingly praised as a breathtaking natural wonder, with visitors captivated by its dramatic beauty and unique atmosphere. The experience of walking through the narrow, water-filled chasm is described as magical and refreshing. While the gorge is highly recommended, potential visitors should be aware of the slippery paths, the need for waterproof gear, and the fact that it's not accessible for those with mobility issues or strollers.
"Visiting Partnachklamm – Beautiful, But Overpriced
Partnachklamm (Partnach Gorge) is undeniably a natural wonder and a must-see if you're in the Garmisch-Partenkirchen area. The gorge is stunning, with its narrow passageways, towering limestone walls, and the sound of rushing water echoing through the canyon. It's an impressive display of raw natural beauty that photographers and nature-lovers will absolutely appreciate.
However, the experience does come with a downside: the entrance fee. At €10 per adult (as of 2025), it feels steep for what is essentially a short, 700-meter walk through the gorge. While the path is well-maintained and safety measures are clearly in place, the high price doesn’t quite match the duration or complexity of the attraction. There's no guided experience included, and facilities are fairly basic.
If you're traveling with a family or on a budget, the cost can add up quickly. It would be more reasonable if the ticket included access to nearby trails or some additional interpretive content about the geology and history of the gorge.
In short:
Pros: Stunning scenery, unique experience, easily accessible.
Cons: Short walk, crowded during peak hours, and overpriced for what you get.
Worth visiting once, especially if you've never seen a gorge like this before — but be prepared to pay more than you'd expect for a brief nature walk."
Virgiele Michelle Correos
"A must visit for all people who like walking though nature. This place is amazing and so beautiful. U walk through it and wonder how nature works and see that if u leave nature to itself it does amazing things. People with wheelchair, strollers and people with walking handicap will have a hard time walking though here. Also when u go through the gorge is good to have a flash light, waterproof clothing and hiking booth."
Mary L
"Beautiful experience! The Partnachklamm is very well maintained and easy to follow, with clear paths and a nicely mapped route through the gorge. It’s a relatively easy hike. It can get a bit crowded on weekends, but the scenery more than makes up for it. After exiting the gorge, there are plenty of hiking trails to choose from if you’d like to continue exploring. Highly recommended!"
Andrej Ilievski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Partnach Gorge is about 3 km from Garmisch-Partenkirchen town center. You can take a local bus, a taxi, or enjoy a pleasant walk. Many visitors opt to drive to the Olympic Ski Stadium parking area and then walk to the gorge entrance.
Yes, local buses from Garmisch-Partenkirchen frequently stop near the gorge entrance, making it easily accessible via public transport.
Partnach Gorge is approximately 1.5 hours by car from Munich, making it a popular day trip destination for those visiting Bavaria.
You can drive to a parking area near the Olympic Ski Stadium in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, which is a short walk from the gorge entrance.
From the parking area near the ski stadium, you can walk or take a horse-drawn carriage to the gorge entrance. The walk is scenic and offers great views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Partnach Gorge is typically around €7.50 to €10 for adults and €5 for children. It's considered well worth the price for the experience. +1
Tickets can be purchased at the ticket window near the gorge entrance. It's highly recommended to buy them online in advance and screenshot them, as mobile reception inside the gorge is unreliable. +1
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local information for the most up-to-date hours, especially as lights are only turned on at a fixed time in the evening.
Due to the narrow, uneven, and often wet paths, Partnach Gorge is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Visitors with walking handicaps may also find it challenging.
Yes, you will need your ticket again to open the exit gate, so be sure to keep it with you throughout your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike through Partnach Gorge is approximately 4.8 km (3 miles) round trip and takes about 80 minutes. It involves walking on narrow, slippery paths, through tunnels, and over wooden walkways with water cascading around you.
Wear waterproof clothing and sturdy, non-slip hiking boots. The path is often wet and can be slippery. A jacket is recommended if you're sensitive to cold, though some prefer shorts as clothes can get dirty.
The gorge is narrow and can feel enclosed, with some dark tunnels. Visitors who are scared of the dark, water, or claustrophobic might find it challenging.
Swimming is not permitted in Partnach Gorge due to the strong currents and the nature of the environment. The focus is on observing the natural beauty from the designated paths.
There are areas where you can relax, and it's a great spot to enjoy snacks or drinks if you bring them. Some visitors mention a restaurant after the gorge.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn offers a stunning photo opportunity, from the cascading waterfalls to the dramatic rock formations and the vibrant green moss. Capture the interplay of light and water. 
The narrow paths and potential for water spray can make photography a bit tricky. Using a waterproof camera or protecting your phone is advisable.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. However, the dramatic atmosphere of the gorge is captivating at any time.
Due to the narrowness of the paths and the high visitor traffic, tripods might be difficult to use without obstructing others. Consider a monopod or handheld shots.
A wider aperture can help with low light conditions. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance water reflections and reduce glare.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and waterproofs, and keep a close eye on them due to the proximity to water and potentially slippery surfaces. Bring snacks and drinks to keep energy levels up, as there are spots to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
The real draw is the immersive experience of walking through the gorge itself, surrounded by dramatic natural beauty. +1Beyond the gorge, the surrounding Bavarian Alps offer numerous other hiking opportunities. Consider combining a visit to the gorge with a hike up to the Alpspitze or exploring the trails around the nearby Zugspitze.
📸 Photographers
+1 Be prepared for challenging conditions: the narrow paths and constant mist mean protecting your gear is essential. While tripods might be difficult to use due to space constraints, handheld shots with a steady hand or a monopod can yield excellent results. The best light can be found in the early morning or late afternoon, but the moody atmosphere of the gorge is captivating throughout the day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel of Partnach Gorge
+1The experience of walking through the gorge is unique. A well-maintained path, often consisting of tunnels and wooden walkways, winds its way through the chasm. Visitors are treated to the constant sound of rushing water and the sight of numerous small waterfalls and cascades tumbling down the moss-covered cliffs. The air is cool and moist, adding to the immersive natural experience.
During winter, the gorge transforms into an enchanting ice palace. Icicles of all shapes and sizes adorn the rock faces, and frozen waterfalls create breathtaking sculptures. This seasonal transformation makes Partnach Gorge a year-round destination, offering distinct beauty in both warmer and colder months.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
Essential gear includes waterproof clothing and sturdy, non-slip footwear. The paths are frequently wet and can be slippery, and you should expect to get splashed by water.
While the gorge is a natural wonder, it's important to note that it's not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers due to the terrain. Visitors with mobility issues might also find the walk challenging.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit