From Schwägalp to Säntis

Hiking tip to the Säntis cable car

The first few metres from Schwägalp lead along the little road to the "Gmeinenwisen" alpine huts. From there, on a steep path with wire ropes offering security, the trail goes up to the "Musfalle" rock bastion. The mountain trail continues on a wide band of grass and scree to the "Ellbogen". From here you will soon reach the cosy Berggasthaus Tierwis (mountain inn). Take a breather and enjoy the view of both Toggenburg and the Appenzellerland. Continue hiking over the large Karrenfeld, where markings guide you between the impressive funnels and crevasses to the Girensattel. The last section leads over the Blauschneelücke and almost vertically upwards over a kind of rock ladder, the so-called "Himmelsleiter", to the Säntis summit. After a short passage through the mountain station and a stop at the terrace restaurant, you can enjoy the uniquely beautiful view of six countries before taking the Säntis cable car down to the valley.

 

Places along the route

Schwägalp – Musfalle – Tierwis – Girensattel – Himmelsleiter – Säntis

Remarks

Tip: Keep in mind that the route up to the Berggasthaus Tierwis (mountain inn) is in the shade. Therefore, the hike is perfect for a hot summer's day!

Contact

Appenzellerland Tourismus AI
Hauptgasse 38, 9050 Appenzell
Phone +41 71 788 96 41
info@dont-want-spam.appenzell.ch
www.appenzell.ch

Map

SwitzerlandMobility

Type of hiking tour

Hiking in the mountain

Difficulty

difficult, T 3 according to SAC hiking scale

Length

4.66 km

Ascent

1185 m

Descent

72 m

Time

3 hours 30 minutes

Starting point / End

Schwägalp / Säntis