We were so excited to visit Partnachklamm (Partnach gorge--named after the Partnach River that runs through it) which is a national monument--espcially after being so awed by Hollentalklamm a few days ago (June 26 post). But we were a little disappointed. Although beautiful and impressive in its own right, the gorge was a somewhat anticlimactic. 
Being closer to town, Partnachklamm is probably visited more often. And being right next door to the 1936 Olympics' ski jump is more famous. But given a choice, we would gladly take the long hike to Hollentalklamm as it is longer, deeper, and more majestic.
Those who followed the recent Winter Olympics may remember that some of the German medalists were from Garmisch-Partenkirchen. There is a huge poster on the side of the ski stadium with photos of "Our Stars!"
On our way to the gorge we saw some other unique sites such as covered bridges over beautiful rivers. This one is on a little bike path Bob discovered that goes from the base into Garmisch right along the river--peaceful, quiet, scenic.
Different parts of Bavaria have different styles of traditional costumes (Trachten). We passed a store that sold Trachten for this area so we were able to see the Lederhosen (leather pants), hats, shirts, dresses, etc. that are worn during festivals and at many restaurants.
Close to the gorge there were men, wearing Tracten, that were offering rides to tourists in their horse-drawn wagons. We see the green and white checked "calf-warmers" (not sure of the official name) often--in photos and calendars as well.
After leaving the gorge (took only 20-30 minutes to walk through) we opted to continue to to Eckbauer, elevation 4054 feet. The trail, again, was spectacular. We found a typical trailside reststop and enjoyed a break and the scenic view. (Note the ever-present German dictionary and notebook!)
We also managed to get a shot of a hiker using hiking poles which are so common on the trail. Again, we were amazed at the age of some of these hikers, although we did see more young people this time out. 
Some hikers (espcially those with small children), opt to take the cable cars to the top and hike down the mountain, exiting at Partnachklamm. We saw a couple of older ladies, hunched over and using canes (not hiking poles!). They may have ridden the cable car both ways but their presence on the mountain is another indication of how important physical exercise is to the German public.
On the way down from Eckbauer we passed through the tiny village of Wamberg. There wasn't much activity but we saw the typical meadows with goats this time and freshly mowed hay that was being stored in multiple litte "hay huts."
We couldn't resist getting a shot of this sign, the translation of which is, "Dog on the Leash! Thanks." Try saying it in German; it's funny!
Back at the ski jump a young woman asked, "Do you speak English?" She was headed for Partnachklamm and we were happy to show the way. She is in the Air Force, attending a healthcare conference at the Edelweiss (military hotel). We learned that she just returned from Afghanistan in April, having witnessed and experienced more than we will ever know.
At the end of the day Bob's GPS indicated that we had traveled over 20 miles (including biking and hiking). We weren't sure which hurt more: legs, feet, or that which "shall not be named!" We were on-the-go for 8 1/2 hours--and very glad to get home to a shower and bed.
We have been in Garmisch-Partenkirchen for 2 weeks now and are still saying that this is the best vacation ever!
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