Toggenburger Höhenweg
Overview
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Distance 16 km
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Duration 5 h 30 min
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Ascent 950 m
Intro
After a short uphill section, the Höhenweg crosses the border to the Linth region for the first time. It then heads downhill towards Amden above the Walensee lake. Back on Toggenburg soil, the stage ends in Oberchäseren at 1650 metres above sea level.
Description
The Selunalp is just below the majestic Churfirsten at around 1,600 metres above sea level. From Starkenbach, you can take the little gondola lift up to the alp to start this physically demanding hike. A gravel path takes you on a gentle climb up to Hüeberlis near Hinderselun. There are no streams on the slopes of the Churfirsten, with rain- and meltwater seeping invisibly into the ground through cracks and crevices, dissolving the limestone as it goes. The extensive alpine meadows, some of which the route passes, are pockmarked with countless holes and hollows. These funnel-shaped depressions, also known as sinkholes, channel the water into the depths below.
A nature trail leads you further upwards. Up where building is no longer permitted, the hike takes you amongst bushes, rocky outcrops and enchanting alpine flowers and plants to its highest point at just over 1,800 metres above sea level with breathtaking views of the Toggenburger Höhenweg and the Alpstein. Shortly afterwards comes the Tritt – a short, slightly exposed yet well-secured stretch – before the route descends further to Vorder Höhi, which is the halfway point.
A brief road section is followed by another pretty path that leads past meadows and through short stretches of shady woodland. The trail passes the Furgglen alpine farm with its panoramic views over the Lintthal valley and the mountains behind it, including the Glärnisch and the Vrenelisgärtli. The final long ascent comes after Hinder Höhi. Once you reach the alp, you can enjoy an impressive panoramic vista all the way to Tödi or Dammastock, right in the heart of the action on and around the alp.
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
| Start location |
Selunalp
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|---|---|
| Destination |
Oberchäseren
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| Direction |
One way
|
| Altitude (meter above sea level) |
1500 m
|
| Ascent |
950 m
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| Descent |
900 m
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| Distance |
16 km
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| Duration |
5 h 30 min
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| Duration back |
5 h 25 min
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| Technical requirements |
Medium
|
| Physical requirements |
Difficult
|
| Season |
May - October
|
Quick Facts
Route number
