Exploring the Ammergau Alps Nature Park – Through Schleifmühlklamm to Kolbensattelhütte

2025-07-27 2 minute read

This circular hike in the Ammergau Alps combines impressive nature, child-friendly trails and exciting experiences. From Unterammergau, it goes through the Schleifmühlklamm via the Kofelsteig to the Kolbensattelhütte. Ideal for families who enjoy being outdoors.

Starting point Schleifmühlklamm gorge

The hike begins at a hiking parking lot in Unterammergau at the entrance to the Schleifmühlklamm gorge. The path mostly runs close to the water and crosses small bridges. The path is well secured and easy to manage even for small children. If you are traveling with a stroller, you can bypass the gorge on a parallel forest path.

Kofelsteig trail

After the gorge, continue along a forest path for a while. Shortly before the turn-off to the Kofelsteig trail is the Langtal-Alm, where you can stop for a bite to eat. There was no catering on site during our excursion, but self-service was possible on a trust basis.

At Kofelsteig, the path becomes a little narrower and slightly exposed in places, but the climb is still very easy to walk on. The reward is a wonderful view of the Ammertal valley to the north.

Kolbensattelhütte

The Kolbensattelhütte is an ideal place for a break, especially for families. In addition to food and drinks (the Kaiserschmarrn was great, but the cakes are less recommendable), there are several wooden ball tracks (balls can be purchased on site or brought along) and a playground with a wonderful view of the surrounding mountains.

Descent and way back

The descent can be made on foot to Oberammergau, alternatively a chairlift or the Kolbensattel summer toboggan run are available. The latter is a particular highlight: 2600 meters of track, 400 vertical meters of descent and up to 40 km/h fast. If you brake, you lose. Tickets can be purchased from a ticket machine. Please note: we underestimated the waiting time a little and stood in the queue for over an hour, which didn’t actually seem that long at first glance.

From the valley station in Oberammergau, the final section is a cycle path along the road back to Unterammergau. If you don’t want to do this last section on foot, you can leave a bike or scooter at the valley station in advance to pick up the car.

At the end, we stopped off at the Eiscafé Paradiso in Oberammergau and enjoyed some delicious ice cream.

Conclusion

This circular hike through the Ammergau Alps offers a varied mix of water, forest, scenic views, and adventure. Anyone planning a nature-filled and eventful day trip will find just what they’re looking for here.”