Großer Arber Mountain
Highest peak in Bavarian Forest with ski facilities
The Großer Arber crowns the Bavarian Forest at about 1,456 metres and supports a year‑round outdoor circuit. Hikers use marked trails and summit paths; in winter the Arber ski area draws alpine skiers.
Großer Arber at a Glance#
About Großer Arber#
Großer Arber is the highest peak of the Bavarian Forest in Bavaria, Germany, with a summit at about 1,456 metres. It is a prominent local landmark and a regional centre for hiking, nature walks and winter sports.
Trails lead to the summit and to nearby features including a small alpine lake and nature areas; the summit area provides panoramic views of the surrounding forested highlands. In winter the mountain hosts ski runs and resort infrastructure serving local and regional visitors.
The mountain grew in importance as a recreational destination during the 20th century with trails, cable car access and protected natural areas put in place to manage tourism. Conservation measures protect the subalpine habitats around the lake and upper slopes.
Großer Arber lies in the Bavarian Forest near the Czech border in eastern Bavaria; the nearest towns with visitor services include Bodenmais and Bayerisch Eisenstein, and the mountain is part of a broader protected upland landscape.
- Summit access: The summit at 1,456 metres is the highest point in the Bavarian Forest and accessible by marked hiking trails and a cable car on the eastern side.
- All-season activities: The area combines summer hiking and winter skiing facilities, with established trails connecting nearby villages and visitor centres.
What to See#
- Summit: The summit reaches 1,456 metres and has an observation point that gives panoramic views over the Bavarian Forest and across to the Bohemian Massif on clear days.
- Arbersee: Großer Arbersee is a small subalpine lake on the mountain’s southern slopes formed in a glacial cirque and is a popular short walk from the main visitor facilities.
Tips for Visiting Großer Arber#
- Access Großer Arber most easily from Bodenmais on the Bavarian side-the town is the usual base with marked trails that give a relatively short ascent to the summit area.
- To avoid weekend crowds, start your hike early on weekdays or use less-frequented trails on the mountain's southern flanks; in winter the area operates local ski and cross‑country facilities, so check lift and trail status beforehand.
- If you plan to use the summit for panorama photography, aim for late afternoon light for the best colors; many visitors stay only at the main ridge, so continue a little further to the true summit and viewpoints for quieter vistas.
Best Time to Visit Großer Arber#
Summer is best for hiking and clear views; winter is the prime season for snow sports on Großer Arber.
Weather & Climate near Großer Arber#
Großer Arber's climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -7°C to 16°C. Abundant rainfall (1390 mm/year), wettest in July.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -7° - -1° | -11° | 124 mm | - | - | 6.3 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -7° - -1° | -10° | 96 mm | - | - | 5.8 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | -4° - 1° | -7° | 113 mm | - | - | 5.7 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | -2° - 5° | -3° | 90 mm | - | - | 4.7 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 3° - 11° | 4° | 98 mm | - | - | 4.5 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 6° - 14° | 8° | 135 mm | - | - | 4.1 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 8° - 16° | 12° | 156 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 8° - 16° | 12° | 122 mm | - | - | 4.1 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 5° - 12° | 6° | 104 mm | - | - | 4.6 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 2° - 8° | 1° | 94 mm | - | - | 5.3 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | -3° - 2° | -6° | 112 mm | - | - | 5.8 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -5° - 0° | -9° | 146 mm | - | - | 6.3 m/s | - | - |
