Alpspix Viewing Platform

The Alpspix Viewing Platform is a triumph of modern alpine architecture, designed to give visitors the sensation of floating above the mountains. The structure consists of two steel walkways, each 25 meters long, crossing each other to form an 'X'. They project 13 meters out over the edge of the cliff, ending in a glass wall that provides an uninterrupted view of the plunging Höllental (Hell's Valley) nearly 1,000 meters below.

Situated at an altitude of 2,080 meters at the Osterfelderkopf, the platform is immediately adjacent to the top station of the Alpspitzbahn. Beyond the immediate thrill of the viewing deck, the area is the starting point for the 'Genuss-Erlebnisweg' (Pleasure Adventure Trail), a family-friendly hiking route that leads down to the Kreuzeckbahn, offering interactive stations and continuous scenic beauty.

Reasons to Visit

• Experience unparalleled, panoramic views of the Zugspitze and the surrounding Bavarian Alps.
• Enjoy a thrilling, high-altitude experience without the need for strenuous mountain climbing.
• Easily accessible via a scenic cable car ride, making it perfect for families and those with limited mobility.
• Serves as an excellent starting point for numerous well-marked alpine hiking trails.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid visiting on days with heavy fog or low clouds, as the spectacular views will be completely obscured.
• Do not wear flip-flops or smooth-soled shoes; the grated floor of the platform and surrounding gravel paths require proper footwear.
• Avoid missing the last cable car down to the valley, as walking down is a long and strenuous journey.

Local Transportation Tips

The primary mode of transport to the platform is the Alpspitzbahn cable car. The base station is located in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and can be easily reached by local bus, the Bavarian Zugspitze Railway (cogwheel train), or by car (ample parking is available). Once at the top station (Osterfelderkopf), the platform is just a few steps away.

Travel Etiquette

• Always greet fellow hikers on the trails with a friendly 'Servus' or 'Grüß Gott'.
• Keep to the right on narrow paths to allow faster hikers to pass.
• Respect the pristine alpine environment by carrying all trash back down to the valley.
• Do not feed any local wildlife you may encounter.

Recommended Age Group

The Alpspix Viewing Platform is a highly inclusive attraction, designed to be enjoyed by visitors of almost all ages.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. While accessible with a stroller, the high altitude, rapid ascent, and cold winds might cause discomfort for infants.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. The cable car ride is an exciting adventure, and the high glass walls on the platform ensure complete safety while they marvel at the views.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The dramatic architecture and stunning backdrop provide perfect opportunities for photography and social media sharing.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Offers spectacular scenery and serves as a gateway to extensive hiking and climbing routes in the Alpspitze area.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The barrier-free access from the cable car to the platform allows older visitors to experience high-alpine environments with minimal physical exertion.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The Alpspitzbahn cable car is fully wheelchair accessible, with staff available to assist with boarding.
• The path from the top station to the Alpspix Viewing Platform is wide, flat, and barrier-free.
• Accessible restroom facilities are located at the Osterfelderkopf top station.
• The platform itself is wide enough to comfortably accommodate wheelchairs and strollers.

Did You Know?

The Alpspix platform was designed to withstand extreme alpine conditions, including massive snow loads and hurricane-force winds. The grated floor not only adds to the thrill by letting you see the drop below, but it also prevents snow from accumulating on the walkways during the harsh Bavarian winters.

Cool Statistics

• Altitude: 2,080 meters (6,824 feet) above sea level.
• Drop below the platform: Approximately 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) into the Höllental valley.
• Length of walkways: Two crossing steel arms, each 25 meters long.
• Overhang: The platform extends 13 meters out into the open air.