Appenzeller Alpenweg - from Urnäsch to Schwägalp

Brief description: Starting from Urnäsch, we set off on an uphill hike towards the Hochalp, where we are treated to fantastic views of the Säntis and the Alpstein region. Continuing past the Alp Oberer Chenner, the trail offers steep but highly rewarding climbs to the striking Hochfläschen and the Spicher, where a breathtaking 360-degree panorama awaits, reaching all the way to Lake Constance. Finally, leaving the rugged mountain paths behind, we enjoy a peaceful change of scenery, walking dry-footed across the beautiful wooden boardwalks of a tranquil moorland before arriving at our final destination, Schwägalp.

Komoot Link: Appenzeller Alpenweg Etappe 1: Urnäsch – Schwägalp | Wanderung | Komoot

Key data
Length: 15,7km
Ascent: 930m
Descent: 420m
Duration without breaks: approx. 5:25 hours
Technical difficulty: according to Komoot SAC T2.
SAC T2: Mountain hiking trail - Trail with a clear route throughout. Terrain is steep in places. Risk of falling cannot be ruled out. Elementary sure-footedness. Elementary sense of direction.

Arrival and departure
Meeting point: 8:25 Zürich HB under the blue angel
8:37 IR55 (Plattform 33) towards St. Gallen to Grossau SG
9:51 S23 (Plattform 11) towards Wasserauen to Urnäsch
10:13 Starting the Hike in Urnäsch HB
Finish approx 18:00 at Schwägalp (Säntis-Schwebebahn)

Breaks
We will take short breaks approximately every hour, with a longer break around midday. Please bring your own food for lunch. Later, we will stop for coffee at Berggasthaus Hochalp. Upon arriving in Schwägalp, we will have the option to get dinner or drinks together.

Disclaimer
Important Notice
This is NOT a guided tour, but an informal meetup of individuals acting on their own responsibility. Participation is at your own risk.
Each participant is solely responsible for:

• assessing the requirements and difficulty of the hike,
• evaluating their own fitness and capabilities,
• ensuring adequate equipment (boots, clothing, Sun cream, tick repellent etc.) and sufficient insurance coverage,
• checking the weather forecast in advance.

In case professional rescue services are required, each participant will be responsible for the costs.
The organizer accepts no responsibility for any injuries, accidents, or death that may result directly or indirectly from this event. The organizer does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of the hike description.
By joining this hike, you agree to the terms stated above.
Image license (example image, not from the tour)
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