Moss-Green Valley and Soft Mountain Light in Bavaria
Sometimes you don’t need much to completely disappear into nature. The Josefsthaler Wasserfälle in Bavaria are a perfect example: a short walk through a green valley, the sound of flowing water, and moss covering the rocks everywhere. It may not be a well-known ‘Instagram hotspot’, but rather a place where peace and simplicity set the tone. But those are exactly the places I’m always looking for. Places that haven’t yet been discovered by the masses.
We visited the waterfalls during our trip through southern Bavaria, searching for locations where you can walk and photograph without too much crowding. What immediately stood out was how sheltered this valley is. Even on a bright day, the light here remains soft and diffuse – ideal for long exposures and waterfall photography.
The route there took us past the Schliersee. From the car, you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes. The Schliersee looked stunning in the autumn light.
About the Josefsthaler Wasserfälle
The Josefsthaler Wasserfälle (also spelled Josefstaler Wasserfälle) are located on the Hachelbach, a mountain stream that flows down from the mountains around Spitzingsee. The main waterfall is approximately 12 metres high, but what makes this place special isn’t so much the height – it’s the atmosphere. The water cascades in layers along rocks thickly covered with moss, giving it a soft, almost fairytale-like appearance.
Above the main waterfall are several smaller cascades worth exploring. The entire surroundings breathe tranquility: the sound of flowing water, the scent of damp forest, and everywhere those intense green tones of the moss.
Location and Getting There
The waterfalls are located between Schliersee and Spitzingsee, near the village of Neuhaus/Josefsthal. You can start the walk from several places:
- From Josefstaler Straße (bottom): The classic route. Park along the street before house number 24 (after that it’s residents only). Short walk of 15-20 minutes to the waterfall.
- From Spitzingstraße (top): Our choice. Longer walk through the forest with the most beautiful part of the waterfalls as the finale.
- From Fischhausen-Neuhaus station: By train from Munich. Adds approximately 30-45 minutes extra walking time.
Parking: There is no official car park at the waterfalls. Parking space along Josefstaler Straße is limited, especially at weekends. Arrive early or use public transport. Respect the residents and don’t park on private property.
Hiking Route to the Waterfalls
We chose to start the route from the top, via a car park along the main road to Spitzingsee (Spitzingstraße). The great advantage of this route is that it offers a beautiful walk and saves the most beautiful part of the waterfalls for last.
Route Details (Short walk)
| Distance | Approximately 5 km (loop walk) |
| Duration | 1 – 1.5 hours (depending on photo stops) |
| Difficulty | Average – suitable paths |
| Elevation gain | Approximately 200 metres |
| Start/Finish | Josefstaler Straße or Spitzingstraße |
| Terrain | Forest paths, sometimes rocky and slippery when wet |
| Suitable for | Families, children (take care at the waterfall itself) |
Hiking Tip: If you take the standard route from the bottom: above the first fall there are more cascades. Make sure to continue upward and don’t turn back immediately at the main waterfall!
Extended Route via Spitzingsee
For those seeking more of a challenge, there are beautiful longer routes in the area. The route below takes you not only past the waterfalls but also around the Spitzingsee with stunning mountain panoramas.
| Distance | Approximately 11-12 km |
| Duration | 3.5-4 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Elevation gain | Approximately 400 metres |
| Highlights | Waterfalls, Spitzingsee views, alpine meadows |
Photography at the Waterfalls
If you choose the route from the top, you’ll come through the forests past smaller waterfalls before eventually reaching the main attraction. The waterfall isn’t extremely high (about 12 metres), but the water cascades in layers along rocks thickly covered with moss. This creates a very soft, almost fairytale-like atmosphere.
For photography, this is the kind of place where you want to take your time. I worked a lot here with longer shutter speeds to give the water a silky texture. Thanks to the shaded light, you can do this even in the middle of the day without harsh contrasts. The dark rocks and moss retain beautiful detail.
Photography Tip: A polarising filter is essential here: it removes reflections from the wet stone and deepens the green of the moss. Combine with an ND filter for longer shutter speeds (0.5-2 seconds) for that silky water effect. I personally use a Kase set with magnetic ring.
What I particularly enjoyed is that you can photograph both grand compositions and small details here. Think of a wide scene with the stream as a leading line, but also close-ups of water flowing along strands of moss. The environment invites you to slow down and carefully choose your composition.
Photography Checklist
- Tripod (essential for long exposures)
- Polarising filter (reduces reflections)
- ND filter (3-6 stops for silky water)
- Lens cloth (humid environment)
- Wide-angle lens (for broad compositions)
- Remote release or timer
Nature Experience and Atmosphere
The walk from the bottom to the waterfalls is short. The path follows the Hachelbach and crosses the water several times via small bridges. Along the edge of the stream are boulders where you can sit and listen to the water.
The route we chose is slightly longer but certainly not hugely challenging. Those wanting a longer loop can combine the waterfalls with a circuit towards Stockeralm (shelter only, no food service) or even continue to the Spitzingsee region. But even as a short stop, this is a lovely place.
Please note: On rainy days, some sections can be slippery. Wear good hiking boots with grip. At the waterfall itself, there are some steeper passages – keep a close eye on children.
Accommodation and Surroundings
We used the area around Schliersee as our base, specifically in Hausham, where we stayed at the cosy Ferienwohnung Übernberg. Excellent accommodation with exceptionally friendly owners.
It’s a lovely region to stay for a few days: you’re close to the water, but also quickly in the mountains. The combination of forest, valleys and small villages makes it a peaceful place to travel. Southern Germany is truly a beautiful region for – as in our case – an autumn trip. Highly recommended!
In Neuhaus and along the Schliersee, you’ll find several cafés and Gasthöfe for lunch or coffee after your walk. It may not be a distinct ‘culinary destination’, but we love that simple, local character. The people are exceptionally hospitable.
Best Time to Visit
You can visit these waterfalls year-round, but each season has its own charm:
| Spring | Bright green valley, lots of water in the stream from snowmelt |
| Summer | Popular with families, children can paddle. Busier. |
| Autumn | Beautiful autumn colours, soft light. Our favourite period. |
| Winter | Frozen waterfall with ice formations – magical but watch out for slippery conditions! |
Our tip: October is ideal – the autumn colours are at their best, it’s quieter than summer, and the soft light is perfect for photography. We were there in mid-October and it was wonderfully peaceful.
In Conclusion
The Josefsthaler Wasserfälle are the kind of place you don’t necessarily visit to ‘tick something off’, but because it’s simply lovely to be there. A short walk, beautiful water, moss and silence. Perfect as a peaceful stop during a trip through Bavaria, or as a small photo walk when you don’t fancy big summit routes.
More inspiration? Also check out my other mountain and forest walks in the Alpine region, or browse through my photo books in the shop.
Practical Information
Location and Getting There
| Region | Upper Bavaria (Oberbayern), Germany |
| District | Miesbach |
| Nearest village | Neuhaus/Josefsthal (municipality of Schliersee) |
| Distance from Munich | 60 km (approximately 50 min by car) |
| Distance from Schliersee | 4 km (10 min by car) |
| GPS address waterfall | Josefstaler Str. 24, 83727 Schliersee |
Public Transport
| Train | BRB (Bayerische Regiobahn) from Munich Hbf to Fischhausen-Neuhaus (approx. 55 min, hourly) |
| Cost | Approximately €17-22 one way (2024 prices) |
| Bus | Line 362 towards Spitzingsee (from Schliersee station) |
| Note | Train splits at Holzkirchen – make sure you’re in the carriage towards Bayrischzell |
Tip: With a Bayern-Ticket (€29 for 1 person, €10 extra per person up to max. 5) you can travel unlimited all day on regional public transport in Bavaria – ideal for a day trip from Munich!
Parking
| Josefstaler Straße | Street parking, free but limited. Before house number 24 (after that residents only) |
| Spitzingstraße | Parking spaces along the road to Spitzingsee |
| Fischhausen-Neuhaus station | Car park at the station, adds 30-45 min walking time |
| Advice | Arrive early (before 9:00) at weekends, or take public transport |
Access and Costs
- Waterfall access: Free, accessible 24/7
- Parking: Free (along the street)
- Dogs: Welcome, on a lead
Facilities
- Toilets: Not at the waterfall, available in Neuhaus and at the station
- Food & drink: Gasthöfe and cafés in Neuhaus and Schliersee
- Stockeralm: Shelter along the route (no food service)
- Picnic: Various lovely spots along the stream
What to Bring
- Good hiking boots (slippery when wet)
- Tripod and filters (for photography)
- Rain jacket (mountain weather changes quickly)
- Water and snacks
- Lens cloth (humid environment)
- Spare clothes for children (paddling!)
Frequently Asked Questions
How high is the Josefsthaler Wasserfall?
The main waterfall is approximately 12 metres high. Above the main waterfall are several smaller cascades. Together they form a picturesque series of waterfalls along the Hachelbach.
Is the walk suitable for children?
Yes, the short walk from Josefstaler Straße is suitable for families with children. The path is relatively easy. Take care at the waterfall itself though – some sections are steep. In summer, children can play in the shallow water at the foot of the waterfall.
How long does the walk to the waterfall take?
The short route from Josefstaler Straße takes about 15-20 minutes to the main waterfall. As a loop walk including the cascades above: 45 min – 1.5 hours. The extended route via Spitzingsee is approximately 11-12 km and takes 3.5-4 hours.
Can I get there by public transport?
Yes! Take the BRB train from Munich Hauptbahnhof to Fischhausen-Neuhaus station (approximately 55 minutes, hourly). From there it’s about 30-45 minutes walk to the waterfalls. Note: the train splits at Holzkirchen – make sure you’re in the carriage towards Bayrischzell.
What is the best time for photography?
Due to the sheltered location in the valley, the light here is soft for most of the day – ideal for waterfall photography. Overcast days are perfect. Autumn (October) offers the most beautiful colours. Avoid weekends if you’re looking for peace and quiet.
Are there other waterfalls nearby?
Yes! In the Miesbach region you’ll also find the Bayrischzeller Wasserfall (near Bayrischzell, a few minutes’ walk from the centre) and the well-known Tatzelwurm Wasserfälle (approximately 25 km, easily accessible by car). All three are worth a visit.
Location on the Map
Gallery
Pictures speak louder than words:
Useful Links
- Official website Josefsthaler Wasserfälle – josefsthaler-wasserfaelle.de
- Tourism Tegernsee-Schliersee – tegernsee-schliersee.de
- Hiking info Servus Schliersee – servus-schliersee.de
- Komoot routes – komoot.com
- BRB Train connections – brb.de
- Schliersee tourism – schliersee.de