First I must admit I'm surprised that Rick Steves guidebooks do not even mention Mittenwald. One of my all time favorite towns is Wengen is Switerland. I'm looking for a scenic small town surrounded by Alpine splendor, so Mittenwald seems to be perfect. About 10 years ago on a Rick Steves tour I stayed in Reutte and visited Neuschwanstein Castle, so I'm not visiting this area for the castles. I'm interested in alpine scenery, and beautiful walks or hikes. I will only have 2 days and 2 nights in Mittenwald.
Obviously only if the weather is good, which alpine lift is recommended? I realize Karwendel Bahn is right out of town, while Zugspitze involves a short car drive. We will have a car so looks like we could drive to Eibsee for a German ascent, or Ehrwald for Austrian ascent. I'm not sure if a vignette would be necessary as this would be our only drive into Austria.
We would like to choose one of these cable car rides for 1 day, then perhaps walk/hike Leutaschklamm with its suspension bridges out of Mittenwald on day 2. Any recommendations would be appreciated.