Hiking with children is one of the most beautiful ways to spend time together in nature. It not only promotes exercise and health but also allows little ones to discover the world in a playful way. From colorful plants and exciting animals to breathtaking views, there is always something new for children to experience on every hike. However, not every trail is suitable for younger hikers.
For the tour to be a successful experience for the whole family, child-friendly hiking trails with a mix of exercise, discovery, and play opportunities are essential. In this article, you will learn which Hiking routes in Bavaria, in the Allgäu and Saxon Switzerland especially suitable for families and how you can get your children excited about hiking.
[Guest Post]: I am especially happy to introduce Corinna from Erziehungs-welt.de to you. On her blog, she not only shares practical travel hacks for families, but also valuable parenting tips that make everyday life with children easier and more relaxed. As a passionate hiker and aunt, Corinna has gathered a lot of experience with hiking with children – including highs, lows, and plenty of aha moments. In her guest post on Wandernotizen, she takes you on family-friendly tours and shows you how hiking with children can become truly heartwarming experiences.
Hiking with Children in the Allgäu – The Most Beautiful Family Routes
The Allgäu is perfect for family adventures in nature. Between rolling hills, crystal-clear lakes, and impressive rocky landscapes, there are countless hiking trails that are also well-suited for younger children. The most beautiful tours are not too long, easy to walk – and offer plenty of variety along the way. Here are some highlights:
- Breitach Gorge near Oberstdorf A true natural wonder that is guaranteed to impress! The Breitachklamm is one of the deepest rock gorges in Central Europe and captivates with roaring water, bizarre rock formations, and moss-covered rock faces. The path is well secured and possible as a short loop trail – or can be extended to a longer hike in the surrounding area. Ideal for families with curious children. Tip: Take a rain jacket – it might drizzle!.
- Alpsee Lake Loop near Immenstadt – An idyllic circular trail around the Großer Alpsee – perfect for a relaxing family outing. The path is mostly flat, stroller-friendly, and offers many great stops along the way: playgrounds, swimming spots, feeding ducks, discovering small waterfalls, and dipping your feet in the water from the boardwalks. If you wish, you can even rent a paddleboat in the summer or swim in the lake. A real Allgäu highlight!
- Buchenegger Waterfalls – This tour is short but full of adventure! The path to the Buchenegger Waterfalls leads through forests and over small trails – never too difficult, but exciting enough for children. At your destination, an impressive natural spectacle awaits you: water that plunges down in two roaring stages – and on warm days, you can even splash around! Surefootedness is an advantage, but the path is very manageable.
This child-friendly tours The Allgäu is more than just mountains. Here, families will find everything they need for a successful hiking day – from safe trails to Playable options up to Nature highlights, that delight children and adults alike. Ideal for First hiking experiences or simply a relaxing day in nature.
Easy Hikes in the Allgäu with Kids – Perfect for Beginners
Hiking with children, especially with young children, doesn't have to be strenuous – quite the opposite: many short and easy tours in Bavaria offer not only beautiful nature but also great opportunities for playing, marveling, and discovering. Whether in a stroller or on foot – the focus here is on the joy of movement and being outdoors.
- Schwansee Loop near Füssen – A dreamlike walking path for the whole family! The circular route around Schwansee is flat and easy to walk – even with a stroller. You'll always have a magnificent view of the Alps and even the famous Neuschwanstein Castle. On warm days, a detour into the cool water is worthwhile – so pack your swimwear! Benches, picnic areas, and a playground provide additional relaxation.
- Eistobel near Isny – A small nature adventure for young and old alike: The Eistobel impresses with foaming waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and moss-covered rocks. There are four different routes to choose from – from very easy to slightly more challenging. The shorter variants are perfect for families with small children. Those who wish can also book a guided tour and learn exciting things about geology, flora, and fauna.
- Cow Escape Waterfalls near Farchant – A cozy hiking trail leads to the impressive Kuhflucht waterfalls – with a drop of almost 270 meters, they are among the highest in Germany. The trail is varied but easy to walk – perfect for families with small children. You'll hear the sound of water everywhere along the way, and with a little patience, you can even spot lizards or dragonflies. A real nature experience with a refreshing factor!
These tours show: Even short distances can offer big experiences. Children playfully discover the world outdoors, observe animals, splash in the water, or simply enjoy being active in the fresh air. Perfect for a family outing that will be remembered as completely relaxing.

Adventure Trail for Children in the Allgäu – Nature and Adventure Combined
Children love to discover nature playfully. Adventure trails are ideal for getting them excited about hiking. This is how hiking with children becomes an adventure in nature.
A highlight in the Allgäu is the Burmi-Weg in Riezlern, which features interactive stations and a water play area. Also exciting is the Treetop Walk in Scheidegg, in which children experience nature from a whole new perspective. Also the Moorerlebnispfad in Bad Wurzach offers a perfect mix of learning and fun with its wooden boardwalks and information boards.
Tip: Switzerland also offers wonderful hiking opportunities for children in the magnificent mountain world. A beautiful tour is the Two Lakes Hike in Arosa.
Adventure hiking with children - Exciting trails for the whole family
Not only in the Allgäu are there exciting hikes for families with children. All over Bavaria and beyond there are great Adventure walking trails, ...that makes children's eyes light up.
Especially recommended are:
- WaldWipfelWeg in St. Englmar – A spectacular path high above the trees with magnificent views and many extras: an adventure trail, marble run, the „upside-down house,“ and an indoor playground ensure fun for young and old alike. Ideal for a day trip with plenty of variety!
- Dragon's Path at Lake Tegern – An imaginative themed trail near Kreuth where children can discover, play, and be amazed by dragon stories. Play stations, charming signs, and small surprises make this easy hike a magical experience.
- Wimbachklamm in Berchtesgaden – A short but impressive walk over walkways through a wild, roaringly beautiful gorge. Also ideal for small children – but remember the entrance fee beforehand (coin available at the last farm in Ramsau). Perfect in warm weather!
These tours offer exciting elements that turn hiking with children into a real adventure. Great adventure trails for the whole family.

Hiking with Children in Bavaria – The Best Tours for Families
Bavaria is a real hiking paradise – and not just for experienced mountaineers! Families with children will also get their money's worth here. Between alpine pastures, lakes, gorges, and castles await family-friendly paths, which ideally combine experiencing nature, exercise, and relaxation. Whether it's a leisurely stroll or an exciting adventure – there's something for every taste and every age.
Some of the best family-friendly tours in Bavaria are:
- Circular route around Lake Chiemsee – Lake Chiemsee, also known as the „Bavarian Sea,“ is perfect for relaxed hiking with children or for enjoyable family hikes. The path around the lake can be wonderfully explored in sections – entirely without major elevation changes. Along the way, you'll find numerous playgrounds, picnic spots, and shallow swimming areas. Particularly beautiful: the section between Prien and Bernau, where you'll repeatedly come right up to the water. If you don't feel like doing the whole loop, you can simply hike a part of it – and then jump into the cool water!
- Partnach Gorge near Garmisch-Partenkirchen The Partnach Gorge is a true natural wonder – narrow rock gorges, roaring waterfalls, and moss-covered walls will bring amazement to children's eyes. The path through the gorge is well-secured, but it's damp and narrow in places – making it an unforgettable adventure for older children. Important: Strollers or baby carriages are not allowed here. At the end of the gorge, you have the option to hike further into the Reintal or comfortably ascend to the Partnachalm. Don't forget your rain jacket – it gets wet!
- Bavarian Royal Routes – Those who want to combine nature with history should visit one of the Bavarian Royal Roads explore. These thematically designed hiking trails follow in the footsteps of Bavarian monarchs through dreamlike landscapes – past castles, lakes, and viewpoints. The circular trail around Linderhof Palace is particularly child-friendly, for example: a beautiful walking path with a park, water features, and the fairytale atmosphere of a real royal castle. Perfect for combining hiking with children and culture!
Whether it's mountains, lakes, or valleys, Bavaria offers something for every family hike Suitable route. Whether you're hiking on wooden walkways through gorges, strolling along the lakeshore, or wandering through royal parks – In Bavaria, every hike becomes an adventure. With a little provisions, curiosity, and good spirits, even the simplest path becomes a small family adventure. And who knows: maybe you'll discover your own personal favorite spot along the way.

Easy Hikes with Children in Bavaria – Enjoy Nature Without Too Much Effort
Not every hike has to be steep, sweaty, or long. This is especially true for families with small children cozy walking paths ideal: Gentle slopes, plenty of nature experiences – and sometimes even a refreshing dip! Bavaria offers numerous routes like these, perfect for a relaxing outing.
- King's Lake Footpath – Königssee is one of the most beautiful lakes in Germany – and its shore path is a dream for nature lovers. Starting from the parking lot in Schönau, the Königssee footpath leads directly to the lake shore and the well-known Seelände on a flat route. Depending on the light, the water shimmers turquoise to deep green, surrounded by imposing rock faces. Children can throw stones into the water, watch the boats, and enjoy the view. Those who wish can then continue by electric boat to the famous echo at St. Bartholomä – an unforgettable experience!
- Höllentalklamm near Grainau – A real insider tip for adventurous families! The Höllentalklamm near Grainau impresses with roaring waterfalls, narrow walkways, and rugged rock faces – a true nature adventure that is still quite manageable. The path into the gorge is easy and a real highlight for older children. At the entrance and in the upper area, there are two cozy huts: the Höllentaleingangshütte for a short break – and the Höllentalangerhütte for a hearty snack with a mountain view. Sturdy footwear and a rain jacket are recommended – it gets wet, but that's part of the appeal!
- Eggstätt-Hemhof Lake District North of Chiemsee lies this beautiful natural paradise with over a dozen small lakes, connected by gentle paths, moor landscapes, and meadows. The circular trail is flat, well-signposted, and ideal for strollers, balance bikes, or little walkers. Along the way, there are always spots to rest, discover, and even swim – especially popular is Hartsee with its lido. In spring and summer, it buzzes and chirps everywhere – perfect conditions for little nature explorers!
These routes are ideal for families who simply enjoy nature want. These child-friendly routes show that you don't have to climb peaks to intensely experience nature. Between babbling brooks, glittering lakes, and mysterious canyons, real highlights await – all without great altitude gains. This is how hiking with children becomes relaxed family experience, where everyone gets their money's worth.
Munich: Hiking with Kids – Nature Experiences Around the City
Munich is not only in close proximity to the Alps, but is also surrounded by many beautiful excursion destinations surrounded, which are perfect for child-friendly hikes. Whether along the Isar River, up a family-friendly mountain, or around a sparkling lake – everyone will find something here Day trip to the little adventure.
- Isar River Meadow Hike The Isar floodplains south of Munich are a true natural paradise. The path along the river is flat, easy to walk, and offers numerous opportunities to pause, play, and picnic. The section between Großhesselohe and Grünwald is particularly beautiful: here the water babbles, gravel banks invite you to skip stones, and with a bit of luck, you might even spot some animals. Ideal for strollers and little explorer feet!
- Blomberg Slightly south of Munich is the Blomberg near Bad Tölz – a perfect destination for an active family day. The hike up to Blomberghütte is also manageable for children, or you can take the cable car. At the top, you can enjoy hearty snacks, a great view, and the highlight: a summer toboggan run that’s sure to thrill everyone! On the nature discovery trail, children can playfully learn exciting things about the forest and wild animals.
- Ammersee Lake Circular Trail The Ammersee, west of Munich, is not only a popular swimming destination but also perfect for leisurely family hikes. The circular trail around the lake can be hiked in stages – the section between Herrsching and Dießen is particularly beautiful. Along the way, you'll find swimming coves, numerous playgrounds, and cozy cafés offering ice cream and cake. If you like, you can also take a steamship back for part of the way – a highlight for little sailors!
Perfect for a family day trip! Whether close to nature along the Isar, with action at Blomberg, or relaxed by Ammersee – around Munich, there are countless opportunities to enjoy fresh air together, have fun, and take in the beauty of the Bavarian landscape.

Tegernsee: Hiking with Children – Family-Friendly Tours with Lake Views
Tegernsee is one of the Most beautiful hiking regions in Bavaria. Surrounded by rolling mountains, lush green meadows, and idyllic alpine pastures, it offers hikers a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and Bavarian joie de vivre. Whether sporty or leisurely – there's a suitable tour for everyone here. And the best part: the views of the sparkling lake are simply unforgettable!
- Riederstein Hike –Although this tour is short, it has a lot to offer! A beautiful forest path leads from the Galaun district in Tegernsee up to the chapel on the Riederstein. The last section via a stone staircase is a bit steeper, but a real highlight awaits at the top: a breathtaking view of Lake Tegern and the surrounding Alpine panorama. Ideal for anyone looking for a short but rewarding tour.
- Tegernseer Höhenweg The Tegernseer Höhenweg is a true classic – and rightly so. The easy trail runs above the lake and connects the towns of Gmund, Tegernsee, and Rottach-Egern. Without significant inclines but with spectacular views over the lake and mountains, this tour is perfect for relaxed half-day excursions. Cozy benches and inns invite you to linger along the way.
- Aueralm Hike A definite family favorite is the hike to Aueralm above Bad Wiessee. The path is easy to walk, not too steep, and well-marked. Once you reach the top, hikers can expect a rustic alpine hut with hearty snacks and homemade cakes – plus a magnificent view of Brauneck and the Isar Valley. Children will be delighted by the animals on the alm and plenty of space to play.
Here is Hiking with children for real enjoymentThe Tegernsee lake hiking region uniquely combines nature, activity, and relaxation. Every family will find their perfect hiking trail here. And for those who want to cool off afterwards: the lake is never far away!
Hiking with Children in the Bavarian Forest – Discover Fairytale Routes
The Bavarian Forest is perfect for family hikes. Gentle hills, Mysterious forests and exciting adventure trails make the region a perfect destination for hikes with children. There's a lot to discover here – from fairy tale paths to airy adventures in the treetops.
- Hansel and Gretel Trail in Lam This lovingly designed themed trail near Lam takes young and old into the world of the Brothers Grimm. Along the path, imaginative stations tell the story of Hansel and Gretel. Children can play, puzzle, and marvel along the way – and with a bit of luck, discover the gingerbread house in the forest. The route is short, stroller-friendly, and ideal for little legs with big imaginations.
- Great Arber Circular Trail - The Großer Arber, at 1,456 meters, is the highest mountain in the Bavarian Forest – but don't worry: the circular trail around the summit is also manageable for families. The hike offers impressive views of the surrounding landscape and passes the idyllic Arber Lakes. A ride on the gondola lift makes the ascent easier and turns the day into a real highlight for little adventurers.
- Treetop Walk Neuschönau – A walk in the treetops? This dream comes true on the Treetop Walk in Neuschönau! The accessible path winds its way through the forest at a lofty height and ends in an impressive observation tower with a view over the crowns of the Bavarian Forest. Along the way, there are child-friendly learning and play stations – perfect for discovering nature in a playful way.
A real adventure for little explorersWhether it's a fairy tale trail, a mountain hike, or an airy path through the treetops – families will find unforgettable nature experiences in the Bavarian Forest. With a little sustenance in your backpack and a dose of curiosity, every tour becomes a small adventure.

Hiking with Children in Saxon Switzerland – Adventure in the Rock World
The Saxon Switzerland is a true paradise for Families who love to hike. Among rugged sandstone cliffs, mysterious canyons, and breathtaking views, adventures await you that Big and small inspire. The region is not only visually spectacular, but also offers many Child-friendly tours, which impress with exciting highlights and manageable paths.
Here are a few particularly recommended hikes:
- Bastei Bridge Hike – The Bastei Bridge is one of the region's most famous landmarks – and for good reason! The hike there leads through an enchanted rocky landscape with fascinating views of the Elbe Valley. The path is a real adventure for children: caves, narrow paths, and the impressive sandstone bridge will amaze little adventurers. The route is relatively short, well-maintained, and prepared in a child-friendly way with information boards.
- Schrammsteine Circular Trail – Those looking for a bit more action will find exactly what they’re looking for at the Schrammsteine. The trail leads through narrow rock crevices, over ladders, and past bizarre rock formations. For school-aged children, this is a real climbing adventure – all secure and easily accessible, of course. In between, there are always magnificent views over the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. Tip: For younger children, you can shorten the route or choose a less steep section of the path.
- Lichtenhainer Waterfall – Ideal for a relaxed family outing: The path to Lichtenhainer Waterfall is easy and even manageable with a stroller. From the spa town of Bad Schandau, the historic Kirnitzschtalbahn tram runs almost directly to the waterfall. Once there, a small but beautiful natural wonder awaits you, which is particularly popular with children. If you wish, you can also go on short hikes in the surrounding area from here.
Whether for spectacular views, exciting rock formations, or babbling waterfalls – Saxon Switzerland is practically made for an unforgettable family outing. Boredom is guaranteed not to set in here, because a new adventure awaits around every bend.
Tips for hiking with children – How to make the tour a success
So that the Hiking with children To stay relaxed and stress-free, these tips will help:
- Choose the right route – not too long, not too steep, adapted to the age
- Schedule breaks – regularly rest and recharge
- Incorporate games and discoveries – e.g. scavenger hunt or nature bingo
- Bring enough provisions Snacks and water are a must
- Check the weather - always pay attention to appropriate clothing
- Stroller– to find out if strollers and buggies are allowed
This way, every hike with children will be a success! If you want to pack your backpack correctly, you should check out the tips from erziehungs-welt.de. There you will find with „Clever packing“ A great guide. Simply click on the link and visit Corinna’s blog.

Conclusion: Hiking with children – nature experience and family time perfectly combined
Hiking with children means shared adventures and valuable family time in nature. Whether in the Allgäu, Bavaria, or Saxon Switzerland – there are fantastic family-friendly routes everywhere. These make hiking a real adventure for young and old alike. There are also beautiful hikes outside of Germany. One of them is the Tamina Gorge. With the right Tips and Preparations Every tour becomes an unforgettable experience. Those who keep the needs of the little hikers in mind and provide variety will be rewarded with happy children's eyes and great memories. So, grab your loved ones and let's go!
Frequently Asked Questions about Hiking with Children
Hiking with children: What age is appropriate?
Babies can be carried in a sling, too. From around two years of age, children can walk their first short distances themselves.
How long should hikes with children ideally be?
Depending on age, tours between one and four hours are recommended with regular breaks.
What equipment is important for hiking with children?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, enough water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit are essential.
How do I motivate children during a hike?
Games, exciting stories about the surroundings, and small rewards help keep motivation high.
