Latschenkopf and Längental

We take the comfortable ascent with the Brauneck cable car and leisurely walk along the panorama path. On weekends, the first section of the path is shared with quite a few walkers and hikers at this popular excursion destination. At the signpost towards Latschenkopf and Benediktenwand, we turn right and climb on the soon becoming rocky path of the Via Alpina, sometimes steeply up to the ridge (some caution and sure-footedness are required here) and enjoy a beautiful mountain panorama on both sides. We look back at the Schrödelstein and the Brauneck, where many paragliders seek their fortune. At the top of the Stangeneck, a dreamy view opens up over the surrounding mountains and in front of us, the Vorderer Kirchstein and the distinctive Latschenkopf already appear. Far below, the Quenger-, Strasser-, and Stiealm greet us on the left, while we continue on a pleasant path towards Latschenkopf.

After a short break at the summit with a rewarding 360-degree view, we continue on the path, which now quickly descends steeply and rocky through larch (sic!), past the Hinterer Kirchstein towering on the right, and in front of us the impressive basin between Rotohrsattel, Benediktenwand, Hennenkopf, and Probstenwand.

At the signpost toward Benediktenwand, we briefly consider whether to take the 1.5-hour ascent but then decide against it. Instead, we take a short breather on the gently blooming alpine meadow of Probst-Alm, then the pleasant coolness of the forest path surrounds us, which soon descends steeply and rocky along the deeply cut Arzbach, passing large boulders claimed by the forest, bubbling streams, and small waterfalls. In some places, wire ropes are installed to provide hikers with additional safety. Overall, the path is somewhat demanding but not too difficult.

After some time, we reach a gravel path below that will lead us through the opening Längental valley. A glance back and around lets us take home a beautiful mountain panorama: the mountain huts of the Hintere Längentaler Alm on the green alpine meadows, behind them the dark forests of the Arzbach valley under the rugged cliffs of Spitzwand, Hinterer Kirchstein, and Probstenwand. All under the sunny, blue sky. Wonderful!

The short path through the Längental to the junction to the Jägersteig to Lenggries passes quickly and entertainingly, from here a somewhat unspectacular path and forest road begins — for our now spoiled eyes and tired legs — which finally opens the view to Lenggries again after some ups and downs and a longer time on the target slope of the Brauneck descent. One steep gravel path left, then we arrive at the parking lot. A truly beautiful hike.