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Intro

The Sernftal valley with the striking Glarus overthrust is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona. Leave this impressive area by following an extensive route over the Richetli Pass. Following the steep ascent, you arrive in the Durnachtal valley and then the largest village in the Glarus – Linthal.

Detour / Closure

There are detours or closures along this route, for more information see https://schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/route-1/stage-4

Description

Stage four is quite something. At 24 km, with a total ascent of 1,650 m and descent of around 2,000 m, this is undoubtedly one of the most demanding stage on the Via Alpina. Fear not, all this hard work will be more than rewarded with the uniquely breathtaking views. Taking the gondola lift from Elm to Empächli is recommended. From there, a slightly less strenuous trail leads to Obererbs, before tackling the relentless ascent up the Richetli Pass.

Having conquered the pass, continue along the northern slope of the Durnachtal valley down towards Linthal. Following that first steep climb, you can take it more leisurely now through the forest and past various alps. Those in need of a little sustenance before reaching the destination can stop off at Alp Vorderdurnachtal, for example. This long stage can easily be divided in two by staying overnight in the Skihütte Obererbs.

Food/drink and accommodation along the route

Accommodation in Linthal or Braunwald (alternative)

Many options in Braunwald

 

An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted

Technical information

Show Technical information content
Start location
Elm
Destination
Linthal
Direction
One way
Ascent
1650 m
Descent
1950 m
Distance
25 km
Duration
9 h 10 min
Duration back
9 h 35 min
Technical requirements
Medium
Physical requirements
Difficult
Season
June - September
Theme
Over a pass, With panoramic view, To an alp, To a mountain peak
More information https://schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/r...

Route

Via Alpina

Vaduz - Montreux
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All stages

Map

SwitzerlandMobility Map: This element is not accessible for disabled people.

Quick Facts

Route number

Stage: 4/20

Distance

25 km

Duration

9 h 10 min

Ascent

1650 m

Travel information: Elm

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