As part of our trip to Germany this spring we were planning to spend the last weekend of April in Garmisch-Partenkirchen for some hiking and mountain time. But then I read that Partnach Gorge sometimes closes "in the spring" due to snowmelt. Does anyone know how likely the end of April is to be right in the middle of snowmelt? Or how I can find out if it is closed to save a trip? I can't seem to find any information or contact numbers online. Also, will the trip up the Zugspitze be worth it this time of year, or is the mountain likely to be socked in with clouds?
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
End of April should* be OK for the gorge, but it would be impossible to predict. As for the Zugspitze, my experiences at all times of the year are that it can be cloudy one day and clear the next. Just give yourself enough flexibility in your schedule and you should get a clear day.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
33513 posts
Does any one know where to find a better crystal ball? Mine is foggy. It is having trouble predicting which days will be warm and melty and which days will be cold and not melty. As for clouds, it is a total loss. Can anybody get me a new one from Diagon Alley? Weather every year is different these days. This far out you certainly can't be confident which way it will go. Better to leave plenty of space to change from poor days to better days. Keep an eye on the weather reports, especially a week out.
Posted by
NYC area
2956 posts
Go to the Zugspitze on April 28 between 11am. and 2 pm. I used my "Magic 8 Ball". Nigel, I could send you one to replace your crystal ball. Sorry K-B, I couldn't help myself. The Zugsptze is well worth it any time of year. You do need to be flexible and since you're staying in Garmisch, check the weather and conditions at the top before paying for the trip. I believe they have a live-cam screen at the ticket booth so you can see what it's like at the top. Paul
Posted by
OP
Chicago IL
8 posts
Thanks for the tips! I'm thinking we might splurge and rent a car for the Alpine leg of our trip, so that we can see more of the area, and if weather's crappy or stuff is closed we have more alternate options.