The best waterfall hikes and walks in Wildschutzgebiet Für Auerwild „Arber“

The Wildschutzgebiet Für Auerwild „Arber“ region offers over 100 hiking routes that feature waterfalls, catering to a wide range of abilities. You'll find everything from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents.

The best time to experience the waterfalls is typically during spring when snowmelt swells the rivers, or after heavy rainfall. However, the region is beautiful year-round. Be aware that from November 1st to June 30th, strict 'Wegegebot' (path obligation) rules apply to protect wildlife, meaning you must stay on marked paths.

While many waterfall trails involve varied terrain, there are options for different fitness levels. For a moderate experience that directly features the Riesloch waterfalls, consider the Riesloch Falls – Rißloch Waterfall Upper Bridge loop from Arberhochstraße. This 4.5-mile (7.3 km) path offers a direct experience of the falls.

The terrain around the waterfalls is shaped by glacial activity, featuring ancient forests, high-altitude spruce, and impressive rock formations. You can expect varied forest paths, sometimes with significant elevation changes, and potentially root-covered or rocky sections, especially closer to the falls.

The Riesloch waterfalls are a spectacular natural highlight within the Wildschutzgebiet Für Auerwild „Arber“. They are a series of cascades that tumble down through a rugged, forested gorge, offering a powerful display of nature's force and a refreshing experience for hikers.

Yes, you can bring your dog, but it is crucial to remember that dogs must be kept on a leash year-round within the protected area. This regulation is in place to protect the sensitive capercaillie (Auerwild) and other wildlife.

For a more challenging adventure, the Rißloch Waterfall Upper Bridge – Riesloch Falls loop from Bretterschachten is an excellent choice. This difficult 10.1-mile (16.2 km) trail involves significant elevation gain through varied forest terrain and takes approximately 5 hours to complete.

If you're looking for a longer, more immersive experience, consider the Rißloch Waterfall Upper Bridge – Riesloch Falls loop from Bodenmais. This difficult route spans 21.8 miles (21.8 km) and features over 1000 meters of elevation gain, making it a demanding full-day hike.

Beyond the waterfalls, the region boasts stunning glacial lakes. You can visit the Great Arber Lake or discover the unique floating islands at the Kleiner Arbersee. The Kleiner Arber Summit (1,384 m) also offers rewarding views.

To protect the endangered capercaillie, visitors must adhere to the 'Wegegebot' (path obligation) from November 1st to June 30th, meaning you must stay on marked paths. Dogs must be on a leash year-round. These rules are crucial for wildlife conservation, and ignoring them can lead to fines.

The komoot community highly rates the trails in Wildschutzgebiet Für Auerwild „Arber“, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 19,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, the impressive Riesloch waterfalls, and the diverse forest landscapes that make each route a unique experience.

Yes, many of the waterfall trails are designed as circular routes, allowing you to experience the beauty without retracing your steps. For example, the Rißloch Waterfall Upper Bridge – Riesloch Falls loop from Silberberg is a popular 5.3-mile (8.5 km) circular trail through forested slopes.