Bavarian Forest National Park

A Bit of History: Germany’s First National Park

The Bavarian Forest National Park was established in 1970, marking it as Germany’s very first national park. It was founded under the motto: “Let nature be nature.” This bold idea meant stepping back and allowing the forest to grow, fall, and regenerate without human interference.

In 1997, the park expanded, now covering over 24,000 hectares of pristine wilderness. Together with the neighboring Šumava National Park in the Czech Republic, it forms the largest forested area in Central Europe – often called the “Green Roof of Europe.”

Getting There – The Scenic Route

The park is easy to reach and well-connected by both public transport and car.

By Car:

• From Munich: approx. 2.5 hours via A92 and B11

• From Regensburg: approx. 1.5 hours via A3 and B85

• Parking available at major visitor centers (Falkenstein, Lusen, and Rachel areas)

By Train/Bus:

• Take the train to Zwiesel, Grafenau, or Bayerisch Eisenstein

• Local bus and forest train connections take you directly to the park’s visitor centers and trailheads

Tip: Consider using the GUTi Card – a guest card offered by many local accommodations that gives you free access to public transportation in the region!

Entry

Great news:
Entrance to the national park is free!
You can hike, explore, and visit the natural areas at no cost.

However, some attractions within the park may have entrance fees:

• Tree Top Walk (Baumwipfelpfad Neuschönau):

  • Adults: €11

  • Children (6–14): €9

  • Family Ticket: €26

  • Open year-round

• Hans-Eisenmann Visitor Center (Neuschönau) & Haus zur Wildnis (Ludwigsthal):

  • Free entrance to exhibitions and animal enclosures

Opening Hours

Since it’s a natural park, hiking trails are open 24/7 year-round, but visitor centers and specific attractions follow regular hours:

Tree Top Walk (Baumwipfelpfad):

• Summer (April–October): 9:00–19:00

• Winter (November–March): 9:30–16:00

Visitor Centers:

• Daily: 9:00–17:00 (check local listings for seasonal changes)

Tips for Your Visit 

• Start at a Visitor Center – Either Neuschönau or Ludwigsthal. They offer maps, info, exhibitions, and access to animal enclosures (wolves, lynx, bears).
• Hike to Mount Lusen or Rachel – Two of the park’s iconic peaks. The views are stunning, especially in fall or winter.
• Don’t miss the Tree Top Walk – This gentle, elevated path ends in a spiral tower with panoramic views of the endless forest.
• Visit in all seasons – Snowshoe hikes in winter, lush green trails in summer, and golden colors in autumn. Every season is magical.
• Dress properly – Weather can change quickly. Wear sturdy shoes and layers.
• Pack a picnic – Plenty of scenic spots and rest areas along the way!

Why We Love It

The Bavarian Forest National Park is not a zoo or a theme park – it’s raw, wild, and deeply peaceful. It’s a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and maybe spot a lynx in the distance. It’s nature, pure and simple – and it’s waiting for you.

Ready to experience Germany’s wildest forest?
Let VisitBavaria help you plan the perfect day trip or multi-day adventure in the Bavarian Forest National Park.