HomeTrailsEuropean Long distance path E1 - part Germany, Niedersachsen vs Via Alpina Purple A56

European Long distance path E1 - part Germany, Niedersachsen vs Via Alpina Purple A56

A side-by-side look at distance, elevation, difficulty and the best time to hike each — so you can pick the right route.

Units
European Long distance path E1 - part Germany, Niedersachsen Via Alpina Purple A56
Distance 202 mi324 km 8.2 mi13 km
Elevation gain 4,770 ft1,454 m 3,891 ft1,186 m
Typical duration 13 days 1 day
Difficulty
Route type Point-to-point Point-to-point
Network International International
Country Germany Germany
Best time to hike Best months: March, April, May, September Best months: April, August, October
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

European Long distance path E1 - part Germany, Niedersachsen vs Via Alpina Purple A56: which should you hike?

At 202 mi324 km, European Long distance path E1 - part Germany, Niedersachsen is the longer route — roughly 193 mi311 km more than Via Alpina Purple A56 (8.2 mi13 km). If you want the bigger challenge or a longer trip, that's the one; for a shorter or first multi-day hike, Via Alpina Purple A56 is the gentler pick. Check the elevation and best-season rows above, then open each route for the full guide and a free GPX download.