Hint

Intro

This is a tour for those who like uphill hiking: The path first crosses a colourful sea of flowers all the way to Alp Tesel, then zigzags higher and higher across Zwingli Pass and Rotstein Pass. You can see the destination far ahead, before the route ends via Lisengrat on Mt. Säntis, the most prominent mountain in Eastern Switzerland.

Detour / Closure

There are detours or closures along this route, for more information see https://schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/route-951

Description

At the foot of the Wildhuser Schofberg, on sunny Alp Gamplüt, begins a hike with spectacular views as you head in the direction of Teselalp. First you follow an alpine road, and soon the small valley, full of flowers, opens up. A leisurely walk on a gravel road below the prominent wall of the Schofberg takes you to Teselalp, where the first ascent begins. A zigzag path leads up to the Chreialp plateau. If you take your time, it’s quite possible that you will spot a marmot in this area. Above the treeline, the hiking path continues, snaking up and down across the alpine pastures. Soon you will see the Zwingli Pass hut, which means that half of the ascent is behind you. At the altitude of precisely 2000 m, you can enjoy a refreshing drink and the magnificent view of the Churfirsten Mountains on the opposite side.

After the break, you continue on the path through the alpine landscape and head for the next ascent. Towering high above on your right is Mt. Altmann, and the Wildhuser Schofberg and the pyramid-shaped Girenspitz are in view on your left. With a bit of luck, some ibexes may be around. They can often be observed from close up. Soon you’re at the top and now the first and last descent follows. The path winding down to Rotstein Pass is steep. Part of it is carved into the rock and secured by cables. The mountain inn at the pass is a welcome sight and a good place to take another break.

The ridge walk begins, always in view of Mt. Säntis and its antenna. The latter soars 123 m into the sky. Keep in mind that you should not be on this trail if you’re afraid of heights. But those who dare will be rewarded with an awesome view across the Alpstein mountain range. Before you know it, you cross the Lisengrat to get to the Chalbersäntis. And now for the last part: a final steep climb and there you are, on top of Mt. Säntis, the landmark of Eastern Switzerland. Now it’s time for a well-deserved meal. The best part is that the extensive views ranging from Lake Constance across the Alpstein Mountains, the Churfirsten range and all to the way to the Glarus Alps don’t cost you a thing.

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
Wildhaus, Gamplüt
Destination
Säntis
Ascent
1500 m
Descent
400 m
Distance
10 km
Duration
5 h
Duration back
3 h 45 min
Technical requirements
Medium
Physical requirements
Difficult
Signalization
Signalisation in both directions
More information https://schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/r...

Map

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

Quick Facts

Route number

No. 951

Distance

10 km

Duration

5 h

Ascent

1500 m

Travel information: Wildhaus

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