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Ski touring in Berchtesgaden

The nature-loving alternative

Ski touring—also known as ski mountaineering—blends the climb and the descent into one unforgettable experience. You make your way uphill under your own power, then carve your turns back down, on groomed runs or through untouched terrain, all the way into the valley.

Its roots reach back to the late 19th century. Before lifts existed, heading into the mountains in winter meant one thing: ski touring. And that remained the norm well into the early 20th century.

Today, ski touring is more popular than ever—and for good reason. It’s a sustainable, nature-driven way to experience the mountains at your own pace. The real highlight? Floating through untouched powder.

Just remember: always check avalanche conditions and plan your route carefully.

Ski touring on groomed slopes

A ski tour with a groomed descent is the perfect way to get started—no powder experience needed. Whether at Hochschwarzeck, Götschen, or Rossfeld, you’ll ease into ski touring on well-prepared slopes in a relaxed and safe setting.

  • View from the Hochschwarzeck toward the Watzmann and Hochkalter
    Bergerlebnis Berchtesgaden

    Hochschwarzeck ski tour

    Ramsau
    • 1:15 h
    • 5,2 km
    • 346 hm
    • Ski Touring
    • Winter Activities
  • Bergerlebnis Berchtesgaden

    Rossfeld ski tour

    Berchtesgaden
    • 1:30 h
    • 4,2 km
    • 380 hm
    • Ski Touring
    • Winter Activities
  • Bergerlebnis Berchtesgaden

    Götschen ski tour

    Bischofswiesen
    • 2:00 h
    • 7,1 km
    • 680 hm
    • Ski Touring
    • Winter Activities

Rules of conduct for ski tourers on groomed slopes

These ten rules of conduct apply to all ski tourers on ski slopes. They were developed in collaboration with the German Alpine Association (DAV) and its regional branches, the Association of German Cable Car Operators, the relevant ministries, the German Ski Federation (DSV), and mountain rescue services.

  1. Ascents and descents are undertaken at your own risk and responsibility.
  2. Ascend only along the edge of the slope. Go single file, not side by side. Be mindful of skiers. This follows rule number 7 of the International Ski Federation (FIS).
  3. Exercise particular caution at crests, in narrow passages, on steep slopes, and when the slope is icy. Do not cross in areas with limited visibility.
  4. Never use closed slopes. Follow all local signage and designated routes.
  5. Exercise extreme caution and consideration during slope maintenance. When winch cables are in use, slopes are closed for safety—there is a serious risk to life.
  6. Ski on freshly groomed slopes only along the edges.
  7. Be aware of alpine hazards, especially avalanche risk. Do not go on ski tours in ski areas if avalanche control blasting is expected.
  8. Only tour when there is sufficient snow cover. Avoid damaging vegetation and soil.
  9. Respect wildlife. Animals are especially sensitive at dusk and in the dark. Do not bring dogs onto the slopes.
  10. Follow parking regulations and fees—and choose environmentally friendly travel options whenever possible.

Ski touring in the backcountry

The Berchtesgaden Alps offer countless opportunities for ski touring. One of Bavaria’s most iconic tours is the Große Reibn—a spectacular ski traverse around Lake Königssee, including an overnight stay in the winter room of Kärlingerhaus by Lake Funtensee.

But you don’t have to go all in right away. Berchtesgaden also offers plenty of easier routes—perfect if you’re just getting started or simply curious to try ski touring for yourself.

  • Jenner ski tour via Hochbahn

    Schönau a. Königssee
    • 4:30 h
    • 14,3 km
    • 1250 hm
    • Ski Touring
    • Winter Activities

More winter activities

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    Discover skiing in Berchtesgaden with panoramic slopes, family-friendly resorts and winter fun at Jenner, Rossfeld and Götschen in the Bavarian Alps.
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    Cross-country skiing

    Discover cross-country skiing in Berchtesgaden with panoramic trails, quiet winter valleys and Nordic adventures near Ramsau, Schönau a. Königssee and the National Park.

  • Sledding & tobogganing

    Experience sledding in Berchtesgaden with scenic winter trails, family-friendly toboggan runs and snowy adventures on Hirscheckblitz and Jennerhex.

  • Winter hiking

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  • Snowshoeing

    Experience snowshoeing in Berchtesgaden through untouched winter landscapes, silent forests and alpine trails near Watzmann and Berchtesgaden National Park.