Every New Year's Day, the quiet Bavarian village of Grainau awakens to the roar of adrenaline-fueled spectators and the sharp swish of skis cutting crisp winter air. The Ski Jumping Tournament at Garmisch-Partenkirchen, held on the iconic Große Olympiaschanze hill, turns this alpine corner of Bavaria into a showcase of daring leaps and gravity-defying flights, blending raw athleticism with breathtaking surroundings.

Located less than 5 km from the heart of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the event site is accessible by a short uphill hike or shuttle routes that tackle an elevation of approximately 200 meters over paved and forested paths. Hikers and visitors find themselves weaving through pine trees that whisper in the cold breeze, anticipation building as the hills reveal sweeping views of the Wetterstein mountains drawing taut above.

The Große Olympiaschanze itself is a marvel of engineering and tradition—its inrun tower reaching skyward, daring jumpers to defy the pull of earth. Standing at its base, the jump hill dominates the landscape, its steep slopes demanding respect from trainee and veteran alike. Attending the tournament means entering a space where history, sport, and nature fiercely converge.

For those planning a visit, timing is everything. Arrive by mid-morning to secure a prime spot along the spectator rails or trail, with temperatures often dipping below freezing; layering is necessary. Footwear with solid traction handles the icy terrain leading up to the jump base and keeps your footing sure against gravel paths strewn with frozen needles.

Beyond the tournament day excitement, exploring the trail network around Grainau reveals hidden vantage points overlooking nearby Eibsee's sapphire waters and the Zugspitze massif. The path varies from easy stretches alongside frozen creeks to short, sharp climbs that push the pulse slightly higher. Bring water, snacks, and a camera; the landscape actively engages, with snowy branches arching like arms reaching out and the river’s icy currents pushing forward beneath the surface.

Winter in the Bavarian Alps weighs heavy but invites adventure — from watching athletes launch skyward in a ballet of speed and precision to acing your hike without losing sight of practicality. Respect the mountain’s demands, dress in layers, and prepare for variable conditions, and you will be rewarded with an event that is equal parts spectacle and mountain encounter.

Whether you're a ski jumping novice, an avid winter sport fan, or a hiker hungry for Alpine challenges, the Ski Jumping Tournament at Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Grainau offers a grounded yet thrilling experience that tests the limits of human flight and earthly endurance alike.