Nature Reserves in Traunstein

The district of Traunstein contains 13 designated nature reserves covering approximately 12,528 hectares of protected landscapes. This page aggregates routes within key reserves like the Östliche Chiemgauer Alpen, Geigelstein, and Kendlmühlfilzen. These areas protect diverse ecosystems, from alpine peaks to extensive bogs.

The primary activities are hiking, cycling, and mountain biking on designated trails. The reserves offer more than 500 routes across these sports. Specific collections of routes are available for MTB Trails around Traunstein and Cycling around Traunstein, designed to navigate the protected landscapes.

The Östliche Chiemgauer Alpen reserve contains over 60 hiking trails and 20 mountaineering routes. The terrain ranges from leisurely walks to challenging alpine ascents, such as routes to the Hörndlwand. The landscape features a mix of mountain forests, alpine pastures, and rugged peaks.

Known as the 'Flower Mountain of Chiemgau,' the Geigelstein reserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity and alpine flowers. It was established in 1991 to protect the area from development. The reserve provides habitat for rare wildlife, including chamois and several grouse species, across its mountain forests and meadows.

Kendlmühlfilzen, Bavaria's largest raised bog, offers predominantly flat terrain ideal for hiking and cycling. The reserve contains over 50 hiking trails and nearly 30 easy mountain bike routes. These paths allow for exploration of the unique bog landscape and its distinct flora and fauna between Lake Chiemsee and the Alps.

Yes, there are many options for beginner hikers. The Kendlmühlfilzen reserve features numerous flat paths through its bog landscape. For more options, a collection of Easy hikes around Traunstein highlights accessible trails suitable for various fitness levels.

Yes, several nature reserves offer routes suitable for families. The Seeoner Seen area provides gentle trails connecting a series of lakes, and Kendlmühlfilzen has flat, accessible paths. A curated list of routes can be found in the guide to Family-friendly hikes around Traunstein.

Dogs are permitted on many trails within the nature reserves, provided they are kept under control to protect wildlife and the sensitive environment. It is important to stay on marked paths. A selection of suitable routes is available in the Dog-friendly hikes around Traunstein guide.

The terrain is highly varied, reflecting its large size and alpine character. It ranges from rolling hills and wild streams in the lower elevations to the rugged, rocky peaks of the Chiemgau Alps. The highest point is the Sonntagshorn at 1,961 meters (6,434 feet), offering challenging ascents for experienced mountaineers.

The main season for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking is from late spring through autumn, when most trails are free of snow. The Geigelstein is particularly noted for its alpine flower bloom in early summer. Some areas are accessible in winter for designated snowshoeing or ski touring, but it is crucial to follow marked routes to protect hibernating wildlife.

This page aggregates over 570 routes across the main nature reserves in Traunstein. The Geigelstein reserve offers nearly 200 routes, while the Östliche Chiemgauer Alpen and Kendlmühlfilzen each provide nearly 200 routes as well.

The Seeoner Seen (Seeon Lakes) nature reserve protects a post-glacial landscape of seven main lakes and surrounding wetlands. It is a significant refuge for many endangered species, including over 40 types of dragonflies. The area offers tranquil hiking and cycling trails connecting the lakes, with swimming permitted in designated zones.