Hourly trains to Garmisch-Partenkirchen €20 one-way gets you to legitimate Alpine skiing not some tourist bunny slopes. Zugspitze glacier stays open year-round, classic Garmisch slopes December-April. Day passes €54 but you're skiing at 2600+ meters with views across four countries on powder days.

Rent gear at Sport Conrad near Garmisch station - way cheaper than overpriced mountain base rentals that charge tourist rates. Quality German equipment that actually works in Alpine conditions not rental shop garbage. Hit the Alpspitze runs early before afternoon crowds arrive on tour buses from Munich.