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Upper Palatinate
Schwandorf

Murner Lake

The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Murner Lake

4.5

(3735)

18,205

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61

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Dog friendly hiking trails around Murner Lake traverse a landscape shaped by its past as a brown coal mining site, now re-naturalized into a vibrant outdoor destination. The region is characterized by clear, groundwater-fed blue waters of the lake, surrounded by picturesque forested sections and adjacent ponds. This area is part of a nature and landscape protection zone, offering diverse terrain for exploration.

Best dog friendly hiking trails around Murner Lake

  • The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Lake…

Last updated: June 29, 2026

5.0

(1)

19

hikers

#1.

Lake Steinberg – Lake Steinberg loop from Schwandorf Airfield

24.9km

06:32

210m

210m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

5.0

(1)

2

hikers

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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5.0

(1)

4

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Murner Lake

Water, forest and castles — hiking in the Upper Palatinate Forest

Other adventures around Murner Lake

Water, forest and castles — hiking in the Upper Palatinate Forest

Hiking Collection by

Oberpfälzer Wald

Tips from the Community

MarcusB73
May 11, 2026, Steinberger See

I can only recommend Steinberger See. Great paths and many benches scattered around the lake, some with tables.

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nice mini-golf course at the wakeboard facility

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From here you can watch the wakeboarders very nicely. A cozy spot. And I love watching the wakeboarders on their course.

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Knappensee The lake's origins can be traced back to the cessation of lignite mining by the Bavarian lignite industry in the 1980s. Flooding of the pit began in 1981, creating the lake with an area of 55 hectares and an average depth of 5 meters (deepest point: 6.5 meters). It is approximately 1 kilometer long and 460 meters wide. The lake's name likely derives from the miners' association or the miners of the open-cast mine, whose work led to its creation after mining operations ceased. The "Knappensee Circular Trail" was created around the lake. Since 2012, this trail, offering 3,900 meters of hiking and cycling routes, has been intended to support tourism in the region. Two-thirds of the circular trail lies within the municipality of Wackersdorf. A parking lot for cars is available on the south side. The water quality of the lake is monitored by the Weiden Water Management Office in the Upper Palatinate region using a measuring station located in the northern third of the lake. The measurement data is available from the Bavarian State Office for the Environment. After the open-cast mine was flooded, the lake water was highly acidic (pH value in 1998: 3.6); however, this has since changed unexpectedly, as the pH value is now reported to be 6.8. Fishing in the lake is permitted only with a fishing license and a local day permit, with a maximum catch of 5 fish per day. Source: Excerpts from www.wikipedia.de

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Staufer
March 11, 2026, Steinberger See

Lake Steinberger Lake Steinberger is part of the Upper Palatinate Lake District and, with an area of 1.84 km², is the largest lake in the Upper Palatinate. It was named after the municipality of Steinberg am See. It is 1.98 km long, 1.4 km wide, and has a maximum depth of 50 meters. The Schreckerbach stream feeds and drains the lake. After the Bavarian lignite industry ceased mining operations in the mid-1980s, the open-cast mine "Steinberger See" was flooded by reducing the water level. Remaining mining equipment was demolished and still lies on the lakebed. Two small, wooded islands also remain, which now divide the lake into a northern and a southern section. In the following decades, tourism developed at Lake Steinberger, bringing a degree of economic growth to the region. In addition to the Steinberger Yacht Club (SYC), founded in 1987, the area now boasts a sailing school, a water ski lift, a boat rental, a leisure park for families and children, a surf club, and most recently, an adventure golf course and a roughly 40-meter-high wooden "adventure sphere" with viewing platforms, an obstacle course, and a giant slide. Numerous restaurants, inns, and cafés complement the leisure offerings. A water rescue station has been established for the safety of visitors. Due to the increasing improvement in water quality and visibility in recent years, Lake Steinberger has become one of the most popular diving areas in the Upper Palatinate. Like all lakes in the Upper Palatinate Lake District, which originated from lignite mines, the water is acidic due to leaching. Because of the ongoing improvement in water quality, fish populations are steadily increasing. Perch and the occasional pike have been observed most frequently. The water is very clean; on windless days, visibility is possible to a depth of at least 10 meters. Occasionally, the tops of dead trees can be seen on the bottom. According to the ordinance issued by the Schwandorf District Office on August 8, 2002, the entire Steinberger See is open for diving. Especially in summer and winter, very good visibility (up to 20 meters) has been possible in recent years. Source: Excerpts from www.wikipedia.de

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And from here you also have a wonderful view of the wooden sphere.

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beautiful souvenir of the mining era

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A walk around Lake Isar is fantastic!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available around Murner Lake?

There are over 60 dog-friendly hiking trails around Murner Lake, offering a wide range of options for you and your canine companion. These routes vary in length and difficulty, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.

Are there easy dog-friendly trails suitable for beginners or older dogs?

Yes, Murner Lake offers many easy dog-friendly trails. Over 30 routes are classified as easy, featuring gentle terrain and shorter distances. A great example is the Small Swimming Pond loop from Wackersdorf, which is relatively flat and perfect for a relaxed stroll with your dog.

What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes around Murner Lake?

The terrain around Murner Lake is quite varied. You'll find mostly level paths, especially around the lake itself, which are ideal for easy walks. Other trails lead through picturesque forested sections, offering natural surfaces and some gentle inclines. The region's re-naturalized landscape, including the unique Tertiary Forest, provides diverse natural environments.

Are there any specific rules or considerations for dogs on the trails around Murner Lake?

While Murner Lake is very dog-friendly, it's important to keep your dog on a leash, especially in designated nature protection areas and near wildlife. Always clean up after your dog to maintain the natural beauty of the area for everyone. Some areas, like the Murner See Rundweg, are popular and shared with cyclists, so good leash control is essential.

Can my dog swim in Murner Lake or other nearby bodies of water?

Murner Lake's clear, blue waters are very inviting. While there are no official dog swimming areas, many visitors allow their dogs to cool off in less crowded spots. Always be mindful of other bathers and any local signage. The adjacent ponds in the Upper Palatinate Lake District might also offer opportunities for a refreshing dip.

Are there any circular dog-friendly routes around Murner Lake?

Yes, circular routes are very popular around Murner Lake. The most well-known is the Murner See Rundweg, which offers continuous views of the lake. Many of the dog-friendly trails listed in this guide are also loops, such as the Hahnenberg loop from Altfalter, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.

What landmarks or viewpoints can I see along dog-friendly hikes?

Many trails offer scenic views and interesting landmarks. You can visit the Observation Tower at Murner See for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding district. The Upper Palatinate Fairy Tale Garden is also directly on the Murner Lake circular path, offering a unique stop. You'll also encounter various viewpoints like the View of Lake Murnersee.

Where can I park when hiking with my dog around Murner Lake?

There are several designated parking areas around Murner Lake, especially near popular trailheads and attractions. These are generally well-signposted. For example, if you're planning a hike like the Hotel Der Birkenhof – Hirschberg Observation Tower loop from Hofenstetten, you'll find parking options conveniently located near the starting points.

What is the best time of year to hike with my dog around Murner Lake?

Murner Lake is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and stunning natural colors, with fewer crowds than peak summer. Summer is great for combining hiking with a refreshing dip in the lake, but it can be busier. Even in winter, the trails can be enjoyed, though some paths might be icy or muddy, so appropriate footwear for both you and your dog is recommended.

Are there any longer, more challenging dog-friendly hikes in the area?

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are several longer and more demanding routes. The Lake Steinberg – Lake Steinberg loop from Rauberweiherhaus is a difficult, nearly 25 km hike with significant elevation gain, perfect for well-conditioned dogs and their owners looking for an all-day adventure.

What do other hikers enjoy most about dog-friendly hiking around Murner Lake?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful lake views, and the peaceful forested sections. The accessibility of the trails and the clear, clean water are frequently highlighted as reasons why it's a fantastic destination for hiking with dogs.

Are there any dog-friendly cafes or pubs near the hiking trails?

While specific dog-friendly establishments aren't listed in detail, the Murner Lake area is generally welcoming to outdoor enthusiasts. Many guesthouses and beer gardens in Bavaria are accustomed to hikers with dogs, especially those with outdoor seating. It's always a good idea to check with individual establishments beforehand.

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