The best walks and hikes around Murner Lake
4.5
(3681)
18,096
hikers
18
hikes
Hiking around Murner Lake is characterized by its unique re-naturalized landscape, a former open-cast lignite mine transformed into a recreational area within the Upper Palatinate Lake District. The region features the central Murner Lake, covering approximately 90 hectares, bordered by a nature and landscape protection area. Trails often pass through forested sections, offering shade and views over the lake and adjacent ponds. The terrain is generally gentle, with minimal elevation changes around the lake itself.
Best hiking trails around Murner…
Last updated: May 24, 2026
4.3
(52)
184
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
25
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(9)
123
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
14
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
24.9km
06:32
210m
210m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Murner Lake
Tips from the Community
I can only recommend Steinberger See. Great paths and many benches scattered around the lake, some with tables.
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nice mini-golf course at the wakeboard facility
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From here you can watch the wakeboarders very nicely. A cozy spot. And I love watching the wakeboarders on their course.
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Lake Steinberger Lake Steinberger is part of the Upper Palatinate Lake District and, with an area of 1.84 km², is the largest lake in the Upper Palatinate. It was named after the municipality of Steinberg am See. It is 1.98 km long, 1.4 km wide, and has a maximum depth of 50 meters. The Schreckerbach stream feeds and drains the lake. After the Bavarian lignite industry ceased mining operations in the mid-1980s, the open-cast mine "Steinberger See" was flooded by reducing the water level. Remaining mining equipment was demolished and still lies on the lakebed. Two small, wooded islands also remain, which now divide the lake into a northern and a southern section. In the following decades, tourism developed at Lake Steinberger, bringing a degree of economic growth to the region. In addition to the Steinberger Yacht Club (SYC), founded in 1987, the area now boasts a sailing school, a water ski lift, a boat rental, a leisure park for families and children, a surf club, and most recently, an adventure golf course and a roughly 40-meter-high wooden "adventure sphere" with viewing platforms, an obstacle course, and a giant slide. Numerous restaurants, inns, and cafés complement the leisure offerings. A water rescue station has been established for the safety of visitors. Due to the increasing improvement in water quality and visibility in recent years, Lake Steinberger has become one of the most popular diving areas in the Upper Palatinate. Like all lakes in the Upper Palatinate Lake District, which originated from lignite mines, the water is acidic due to leaching. Because of the ongoing improvement in water quality, fish populations are steadily increasing. Perch and the occasional pike have been observed most frequently. The water is very clean; on windless days, visibility is possible to a depth of at least 10 meters. Occasionally, the tops of dead trees can be seen on the bottom. According to the ordinance issued by the Schwandorf District Office on August 8, 2002, the entire Steinberger See is open for diving. Especially in summer and winter, very good visibility (up to 20 meters) has been possible in recent years. Source: Excerpts from www.wikipedia.de
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Lake Murner See is a lignite mining lake that was flooded in the 1980s and is part of the Upper Palatinate lake district. Thanks to its clear waters, it is very popular with divers, stand-up paddleboarders, swimmers, and others. The family highlight at Lake Murner See is the fantastic Water-Fish-Nature adventure park. Yet it still exudes tranquility.
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Beautiful path around the lake, unfortunately a bit crowded in summer
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great house with life-size Playmobil figures
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Information board at the Murner See circular trail
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Murner Lake?
There are over 15 hiking routes available around Murner Lake, catering to various preferences. The komoot community has contributed to a diverse network of paths, with options ranging from easy strolls to more challenging excursions.
What is the typical terrain and elevation gain like on hikes around Murner Lake?
The terrain around Murner Lake is generally gentle, with minimal elevation changes, especially on routes directly encircling the lake. The landscape is characterized by its re-naturalized former brown coal mining site, featuring clear blue waters, forested sections, and adjacent ponds. For example, the Murner See Promenade – Signpost to observation tower loop from Rauberweiherhaus has an elevation gain of only about 16 meters.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners or casual walkers around Murner Lake?
Yes, Murner Lake offers several easy hiking options perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. A popular choice is the Murner See Promenade – Signpost to observation tower loop from Rauberweiherhaus, which is about 5 kilometers long and takes just over an hour to complete, offering continuous lake views.
What are some notable attractions or viewpoints along the hiking trails at Murner Lake?
Hikers can discover several interesting attractions and viewpoints. The Observation Tower at Murner See on the north bank provides panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding landscape. You can also explore the Upper Palatinate Fairy Tale Garden, which brings local folklore to life, or enjoy the unique sensory experience of the Barefoot Path integrated into some circular routes.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Murner Lake?
Yes, circular routes are a highlight of hiking around Murner Lake. The most popular is the Murner Lake Circular Route, which is typically 5-7 kilometers long and offers continuous lake views. A specific example is the Murner See Promenade – Signpost to observation tower loop from Rauberweiherhaus, an easy 5 km loop.
Are the hiking trails around Murner Lake suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Many trails around Murner Lake are family-friendly, with gentle terrain and engaging attractions. The popular circular route around the lake is accessible for all ages. The Upper Palatinate Fairy Tale Garden and the Barefoot Path are particularly appealing for children, adding an element of fun to the hike.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails at Murner Lake?
Yes, the hiking trails around Murner Lake are generally dog-friendly. It's a great area for walks with your canine companion, offering plenty of natural spaces. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash, especially in designated nature protection areas, and remember to clean up after them.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Murner Lake?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience around Murner Lake, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique re-naturalized landscape, the clear lake views, and the well-maintained, accessible paths. The combination of natural beauty and family-friendly attractions like the Observation Tower is frequently highlighted.
Are there longer or more challenging hiking routes available for experienced hikers?
While many routes are easy, there are options for more extended adventures. For example, the Murner Lake Loop Trail – Lake Murner loop from Schwandorf Airfield is a difficult 23.2 km route that takes over 6 hours to complete. The broader Four Lakes Hiking Trail (Vier-Seen-Wanderweg) also connects Murner Lake with other bodies of water, spanning approximately 34 kilometers for a more extended challenge.
Is there parking available near the hiking trails at Murner Lake?
Yes, there are parking facilities available around Murner Lake, making it convenient for hikers to access the trails. Specific parking areas are usually well-marked near popular starting points for the circular routes and attractions.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Murner Lake?
Murner Lake is enjoyable for hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with changing foliage in the Tertiary Forest. Summer is also popular, especially for combining hiking with other lake activities like swimming. Even in winter, the gentle terrain can be suitable for walks, though conditions may vary.
Most popular routes around Murner Lake
Most popular attractions around Murner Lake
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