Partnach Gorge - Partnachklamm
Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany

ABOVE: The Partnachklamm is a whitewater experience that you can enjoy without risking your life in a kayak.

The Partnach Gorge, or Partnachklamm, is a "don't miss" attraction on any visit to the Bavarian alpine resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The gorge, which acts as a natural conduit for the Partnach River, runs 700 meters or 2,305 feet between limestone walls that reach 80 meters (262 feet) high. A series of galleries and tunnels has been carved out of the rock along one side, allowing visitors to walk along the rushing river and duck behind waterfalls.

The gorge is open year-round except for a short time in the spring when melting snow makes the route impassable.

Summer. In July and August, the Partnachklamm offers a refreshing break from summer heat. If you're ambitious and in good shape, you can continue on for another eight or nine hours to the glacier near the top of the Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain. (Follow these directions, and plan to spend the night at an alpine hut along the way.)

Winter. In the cold months, the Partnach Gorge is a magical place of ice and snow formations. You can bundle up in your warmest clothes for a guided torchlight tour through the gorge, followed by a short climb up to the top for a glass of hot spiced wine or a fondue dinner at the Forsthaus Graseck. Afterwards, you descend to the valley by the hotel's private gondola.

For year-round directions and other practical information, see:

Page 2 - How to reach the Partnachklamm

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