Höhenweg Allmagelleralp

This exhilarating hike offers a thrilling combination of breathtaking views, pristine nature and high adventure. Add atmospheric mountain restaurants at the start, middle and finish, and you have the ingredients for an unforgettable day out.

The hike starts at Kreuzboden by the gondola station, lake and adventure playground. The first half of the route leads at high level (between 2,400 m and 2,520 m) southwards along the Saastal valley. The views of the glaciated Mischabel massif – which culminates in the Dom (4,545 m), the highest mountain entirely within Switzerland – are bewitching. As the trail rounds the Triftgrätji ridge, hikers enjoy perhaps the finest view of all: up and down the whole valley, to the Mattmark reservoir and beyond.

This initial stretch of trail as far as Triftgrätji also forms the first part of the alpine flower trail (from Kreuzboden to Saas-Grund), which showcases about 240 species of flower including edelweiss and gentian.

Beyond the ridge, the trail continues south before turning east to descend into a side valley, the wild Almagellertal: expect pristine nature and blissful tranquillity. The mountain hotel framed by flower-filled pastures offers an ideal refreshment stop.

Our route leads downstream before turning south again for the hike’s grand finale: the Almagell adventure trail. This leads across the steep, rocky slopes of the Almagellerhorn, and features exposed rock passages secured with hand-holds, rails and nets. Hikers need a sure foot and a good head for heights. After two suspension footbridges, 45 m and 60 m long, the trail finishes in grand style with a nearly vertical path down the rock face.

Highlights:

• High-altitude trail with spectacular views of the Saastal valley and its glaciated peaks
• Alpine flowers, pristine nature
• Adventure trail with two giddy suspension footbridges