4.5
(905)
14,049
riders
294
rides
Touring cycling around Linthal offers routes through the Swiss Alps, characterized by alpine landscapes, challenging passes, and scenic valleys. The region is situated at the southern end of the Glarus Valley, with the Linth River flowing through it and the Tödi mountain visible. Cyclists encounter varied terrain, including demanding climbs over passes like Klausen Pass, and more gradual rides through areas such as the Urnerboden Valley.
Last updated: October 2, 2026
4.3
(13)
234
riders
63.7km
04:39
1,390m
1,390m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
52
riders
68.2km
05:01
1,560m
1,560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

3.7
(3)
114
riders
17.3km
01:14
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
46
riders
28.3km
02:13
780m
780m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
26
riders
16.3km
01:14
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The bare mountain lends itself to beautiful panoramas.
4
0
Le Grand Ballon (1325 m) forms the highest point of the Vosges mountains and is one of the most famous destinations for cyclists in the mountain range. Although the summit itself is slightly higher (1424 m), the mountain pass is located at an altitude of approximately 1325 meters on the side of the Route des Crêtes. From here, vast panoramas open up over the Vosges, the Alsace plain, and on clear days even as far as the Black Forest and the Alps. For cyclists, Le Grand Ballon is a legendary climb. Long and often challenging ascents lead from the various valleys to this iconic mountain. The final kilometers above the tree line offer an impressive scenery of mountain meadows, rocky outcrops, and expansive vistas.
4
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The Ferme-Auberge du Haag is a traditional mountain inn located near the Col du Haag (1233 m), at the foot of the Grand Ballon. For generations, the farms on the higher Vosges ridges have been welcoming hikers, cyclists, and winter sports enthusiasts. The Haag farm is situated in the middle of mountain pastures, with a beautiful view over the southern Vosges and the Grand Ballon.
4
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When you drive from the Route des Crêtes towards Le Grand Ballon, you pass the Col du Haag (1233 m) almost unnoticed. Yet, this pass marks a special point on the southern flank of the highest mountain in the Vosges. Here, steep roads from the Thurdal leave the wooded slopes and reach the open heights of the massif. From the col, a typical Vosges landscape unfolds with mountain meadows, scattered farms, and sweeping views. The proximity of the Grand Ballon is felt everywhere: the imposing summit towers above the pass and forms the natural goal of the final climbing kilometers. For cyclists, the Col du Haag is mainly known as the point where difficult climbs from the valleys converge before the road continues to rise to the highest point of the Vosges.
4
0
Le Markstein (1184 m) is meer dan alleen een kruispunt op de Route des Crêtes. Het is echter een echte bergpas en het hoogste punt van de oversteek tussen het Lauch- en Thurdal. Het ligt in het hart van het Vogezenmassief, midden een populair wintersportgebied dat nauw verbonden is met de Grand Ballon
4
0
sensational view up to the Alps.
1
0
Summer 2026: the chalet, its restaurant and the self-service room are closed. Only the tables on the terrace are accessible, but the vegetation has grown. See https://chalethotel-grandballon.com/ : "Dear customers, Due to a lack of staff, the Chalet-Hôtel du Grand Ballon is not able to welcome you at the moment, nor to respond to your reservation requests for the hotel and the restaurant. We have made the decision to close our establishment until we gather the right conditions to resume our activity. Thank you for your understanding The Manager"
1
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Linthal offers a wide array of touring cycling routes, with over 290 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides through valleys to challenging ascents over alpine passes.
Touring cycling in Linthal provides a diverse range of terrain. You'll encounter stunning alpine landscapes, challenging passes like the Klausen Pass, and picturesque valleys such as the Urnerboden and Glarus Valleys. Routes often feature mostly paved surfaces, with demanding climbs and scenic descents, offering changing landscapes and beautiful views.
Yes, Linthal has over 50 easy touring cycling routes. These typically follow valley floors, offering more gradual rides with less elevation gain, perfect for those new to touring cycling or looking for a relaxed experience. An example of a moderate route that offers varied landscapes is The ridge road – La route des crêtes loop from Le Markstein.
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Linthal offers over 160 difficult routes. These often involve significant elevation changes and ascents over high mountain passes. A notable example is the Markstein – Grand Ballon loop from Le Markstein, which includes over 2,500 feet (787 meters) of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Col du Dreibannstein – Bannstein Pass loop from Linthal, leading through mountainous terrain.
The Linthal region is rich in natural beauty and offers numerous scenic viewpoints. You can expect breathtaking alpine views, traditional Swiss landscapes with wandering cows, and views of the Linth River and the Tödi mountain. Highlights include the historic Bruder-Klaus-Kapelle at the summit of Klausen Pass, and various mountain peaks like Grand Ballon or Hohneck. You might also pass by charming farm inns such as Kahlenwasen Farm Inn.
The best time for touring cycling in Linthal is typically from late spring to early autumn, roughly May to October. During this period, the high mountain passes like Klausen Pass are usually open, and the weather is most favorable. The Klausen Pass road, for instance, is typically closed between October and May due to heavy snowfall.
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Linthal are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. These circular routes often take you through diverse landscapes, including valley floors and mountain passes. An example of a moderate loop is Grand Ballon – Markstein loop from Le Markstein.
The touring cycling routes around Linthal are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 870 reviews. Cyclists often praise the 'goosebump-stuff' scenery, the mix of challenging climbs and scenic rides, and the well-regarded routes through stunning alpine landscapes and picturesque valleys.
Yes, Linthal is accessible by public transport, which can be a convenient way to reach the starting points of various cycling routes. The region is well-integrated into the Swiss public transport network, making it possible to combine cycling with train or bus travel, though specific regulations for carrying bicycles may apply.
Linthal and the surrounding Glarus region offer various options for food and accommodation. You'll find cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the villages, as well as traditional alpine farm inns and huts like Ferme Auberge du Frankenthal or the Grand Ballon Chalet Hotel, which are often located directly along or near popular routes, providing convenient stops for refreshments or overnight stays.
While many routes in Linthal involve significant elevation, there are family-friendly options, particularly those that stick to the valley floors or offer gentler gradients. These routes provide a great way for families to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Glarus Valley without overly strenuous climbs. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' for the most suitable options.


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