Ganghoferweg – Circular Tour

The Ganghoferweg is the most well-known and most-walked route in the Gaistal – named after the Bavarian author Ludwig Ganghofer, who spent over 20 summers at his hunting lodge “Hubertus” in the Gaistal and drew inspiration from its beauty. The circular tour covers 10 km through the entire lower and middle Gaistal, passing three staffed alpine huts and through a landscape that Ganghofer described as “wildly romantic” – and that it still is today.

Ludwig Ganghofer and the Gaistal

Ludwig Ganghofer (1855–1920) was one of the most widely read German authors of the early 20th century. His novel Das Schweigen im Walde and several other works are set directly in the Gaistal. The hunting lodge “Hubertus”, where Ganghofer spent his summers, stood above what is now the Tillfußalm. Information boards along the route tell more about his life and work in the valley.

The path that today bears his name is more than just a hiking trail – it is a literary monument to a man who loved the Gaistal like almost no other place.

Route Description

Start at Salzbach car park (P3–P5): From the car park on the Salzbach, follow the well-marked Ganghoferweg westward into the valley. The path is wide and level – progress along the north side of the Gaistalbachbach is at a leisurely pace.

To the Hämmermoosalm (approx. 45 min.): After about 2 km, bear slightly uphill towards the Hämmermoosalm (1,417 m) – the outstanding refreshment hut in the Gaistal, ideal for a first rest or an early lunch.

On to the Gaistalalm (approx. 30 min.): The Ganghoferweg continues further into the valley, past typical alpine meadow scenery with grazing cattle. The Gaistalalm (1,350 m) is the first and most easily accessible hut in the valley – a second refreshment option if needed.

To the Tillfußalm (approx. 30 min.): Shortly after, the Tillfußalm (1,420 m) appears on the left. The former Ganghofer hunting lodge is in the immediate vicinity. The terrace of the hut with views of the Wetterstein walls is the ideal turning point for a midday break.

Return on the other side of the valley (approx. 45 min.): The return route follows the south side of the Gaistalbachbach – slightly higher up the hillside, with different views. This section is somewhat narrower than the outward route, but well marked and easy underfoot. Back to the Salzbach car park.

Refreshment Stops

Three huts on this tour – no hunger need go unsatisfied:

Why the Ganghoferweg?

• For everyone: The route is pushchair-friendly, dogs welcome, and suitable for all age groups
• Cultural experience: Information boards turn the walk into a literary journey as well
• Three huts: More refreshment options than any other Gaistal route
• Return transport: Those who have walked too far into the valley can return from the rear Gaistal by bicycle or shuttle (available in summer)

Season and Best Time to Visit

Tips for the Tour

• Ganghofer information boards: Read them! The history of the Gaistal is fascinating and enriches any walk
• Dogs: Please keep on lead near grazing animals
• Pushchairs: Straightforward on the main outward route; the return is somewhat more demanding
• Alternative: Those not wanting the full circular walk can simply walk to the Tillfußalm and return the same way (approx. 6 km)

The Ganghoferweg is the soul of the Gaistal – a route that tells stories, reveals nature and connects three of the valley’s most beautiful alpine huts.