Seebensee & Seebenalm

The Seebensee at 1,808 m is one of the most celebrated and beautiful hiking destinations in the Zugspitze region – and reachable from the Gaistal in a half-day tour. The turquoise-green water, views of the Zugspitze massif and the absolute stillness of the high-alpine lake make this walk an unforgettable experience. Anyone visiting the Gaistal with time for a longer tour should not miss the Seebensee.

The Seebensee: Natural Wonder in the Wetterstein

The Seebensee lies at 1,808 m in a high-alpine cirque on the border between Tyrol and Bavaria. Its characteristic turquoise-green water is created by meltwater from the surrounding glaciers and the pale limestone of the Wettersteingebirge. In summer the lake mirrors the surrounding peaks and the Zugspitze – a sight that appears on many postcards from the region.

The Drachensee is in close proximity – slightly less well-known, but equally beautiful and considerably quieter. Anyone heading to the Seebensee should plan the short detour to the Drachensee.

Route Description

Start at Salzbach car park (P5): From the uppermost Gaistal car park, follow the Ganghoferweg into the valley. P5 already lies deep in the valley, which increases the starting altitude and shortens the ascent.

Towards the Hochfeldernalm (approx. 1.5 hrs.): The marked trail leads out of the valley floor and uphill through woodland. The trees thin out with increasing altitude – after about 1.5 hours you reach the Hochfeldernalm (1,640 m), the ideal first rest stop with views of the Zugspitze massif.

Hochfeldernalm to Seebensee (approx. 1 hr.): From the hut the path continues uphill over open alpine terrain. The final section before the lake is somewhat steeper and rockier – sturdy footwear is important here. Then suddenly, after one last rise, the view opens up: the Seebensee lies turquoise-green before you, framed by rock and the Zugspitze panorama. This moment is the highlight of the entire tour.

Lingering at the lake: There are several lovely resting spots on the shore of the Seebensee. The Seebenalm (1,905 m) sits directly on the bank and offers Brettljause and drinks on a terrace with lake views. Allow at least 30–60 minutes to take it in.

Detour to the Drachensee (optional, approx. 30 min. extra): A path leads from the Seebensee to the smaller Drachensee – quieter and less well-known, but just as beautiful.

Descent (approx. 1.5 hrs.): Return on the same route to the Hochfeldernalm and on to the car park.

Alternative: Descent via Ehrwald

Those preferring a point-to-point route rather than an out-and-back can descend on the other side of the Seebensee to the Ehrwalderalm and take the Ehrwalder Almbahn cable car to Ehrwald. From there a bus connection runs back to the Gaistal. This variant saves about 1 hour of descent and offers a different landscape.

Refreshment Stops

Requirements

The tour is rated moderate: 650 m of ascent over 7 km – very manageable for an averagely fit walker. The terrain in the upper section requires sturdy footwear. No scrambling sections.

Recommendation: Minimum fitness for approx. 4.5 hours of walking, sturdy hiking boots, rain and sun protection, 2 litres of water.

Tips for the Tour

• Early start: On fine summer days the Seebensee gets busy – be at the car park before 9 a.m.
• Nature conservation: In the nature reserve around the lake: dogs must be kept on lead, no litter, stay on the marked paths
• Overnight option: A night at the Hochfeldernalm (€50/person) + sunrise at the Seebensee – unforgettable
• E-bike: Possible by e-bike to the Hochfeldernalm; bike parking on site

The Seebensee walk is the most impressive tour in the Gaistal – for all those willing to invest the 650 metres of elevation gain.