The best walks and hikes in St. Gallen
4.6
(19668)
131,516
hikers
4,642
hikes
Hiking in St. Gallen offers diverse landscapes, transitioning from rolling hills near Lake Constance to the rugged peaks of the Appenzell and Glarus Alps. The region features significant river landscapes like the Sitter and Wattbach, alongside sections of Walensee and Lake Zurich. Nearly a third of the canton is covered in forests, with vast green meadows and alpine terrain defining many trails. Elevations range from 398 meters along Lake Constance to the 3,247-meter summit of Ringelspitz.
Best hiking trails in…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.8
(779)
5,471
hikers
11.2km
04:47
480m
830m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(333)
2,245
hikers
10.7km
03:14
290m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.7
(232)
1,464
hikers
8.41km
03:13
520m
520m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(116)
808
hikers
14.7km
05:31
450m
1,060m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.6
(164)
876
hikers
13.9km
04:22
500m
500m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(66)
560
hikers
9.90km
03:28
550m
550m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(82)
510
hikers
7.03km
02:12
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(29)
180
hikers
14.4km
06:04
710m
880m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.9
(324)
2,206
hikers
14.6km
05:58
830m
830m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(18)
251
hikers
3.90km
01:04
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures in St. Gallen
Tips from the Community
Historical Museum
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Far from the noise of the streets, in the heart of the Flumserberg ski area, directly above Lake Walen, lies our idyllically situated hotel & restaurant at 1,650 meters above sea level. The view of the Churfirsten mountains and the local mountain, the Sächsmoor, delights every day. Source: https://share.google/RhRxb8Sb9oVkycB6F
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Old Pfäfers Baths Switzerland's oldest baroque bathing facility, now a bathing and monastery museum with a Paracelsus memorial, a neo-Gothic bathing chapel, and a restaurant. Even the poet Rainer Maria Rilke was fascinated by the mystical Tamina Gorge and the baroque baths. Switzerland's oldest baroque bathing facility was built between 1704 and 1718 and gently renovated between 1983 and 1995. It is owned by the Canton of St. Gallen. In 1240, two hunters discovered the 36.6°C spring, whose waters the monks of Pfäfers Monastery discovered had healing properties. The baths became an internationally renowned spa resort. Today, Old Pfäfers Baths houses a bathing and monastery museum. It depicts the history of the Benedictine monastery of Pfäfers, founded in 740, until its dissolution in 1838. The spa museum provides insight into the eventful history of the spa and bathing from its origins to the present day. The museum also includes models of the difficult development of the gorge. Paracelsus Memorial A memorial was also established for the naturalist and philosopher Paracelsus. Paracelsus worked as the first spa doctor in Pfäfers in 1535. Thermal spring Hot water spring 36.5 degrees Celsius Text / Source: Municipality of Pfäfers, Hintergasse 4, 7312 Pfäfers https://www.pfaefers.ch/sehenswuerdigkeiten/10213#:~:text=The oldest baroque bathing facility in Switzerland was discovered by monks of the Pfafers monastery who had healing properties.
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Well-maintained path offers beautiful views of Lake Walen and the Churfirsten
2
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The lower, wide section of the gorge from Bad Ragaz to the old town of Bad Pfäfers, marked in this highlight, is freely accessible. Only the narrower section that follows requires admission. Both sections are absolutely worth seeing.
1
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in St. Gallen?
St. Gallen offers a vast network of hiking trails. There are over 4,600 routes available, catering to various skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging alpine ascents.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, St. Gallen has plenty of easy hiking trails. Over 2,000 routes are classified as easy, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. For example, the Pizol panoramic high-altitude trail offers stunning views with minimal elevation gain.
Can I find circular hiking routes in St. Gallen?
Absolutely. Many trails in St. Gallen are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Tamina Gorge Circular Trail is a popular moderate option, leading through a mystical gorge. Another great choice is the Pizalun round tour, offering scenic views.
Are there any hikes that feature waterfalls?
Yes, St. Gallen is home to several impressive waterfalls. The Batöni waterfall arena in the Weisstannental valley is a highlight, leading through a valley with multiple cascades. You can also explore the Thur Waterfalls or the Giessenfall Waterfall.
What kind of natural attractions can I explore while hiking in St. Gallen?
St. Gallen's diverse landscape offers a wealth of natural attractions. You can hike through dramatic gorges like the Tamina Gorge or the Wissbach Gorge Trail. The region also features unique caves such as Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall and Wildenmannli’s Cave, offering a blend of adventure and cultural exploration.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in the region?
Many trails in St. Gallen are suitable for families, offering varied terrain and attractions. The Drei Weieren (Three Ponds) near the city center provide a pleasant recreational area for strolls. The Peter and Paul Wildlife Park, overlooking the city, is another excellent family destination, combining easy walks with opportunities to see alpine animals.
What do other hikers say about the trails in St. Gallen?
The hiking trails in St. Gallen are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 19,400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from serene lake-side paths to challenging alpine routes, and the well-maintained network of trails.
Are there hiking trails accessible by public transport?
Yes, many hiking trails in St. Gallen are well-connected by public transport. Switzerland's excellent public transport system makes it easy to reach trailheads and return from endpoints. For example, the Riviera Walensee Weesen - Quinten trail is easily accessible, allowing you to enjoy the scenic shores of Walensee without needing a car.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in St. Gallen?
Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in St. Gallen, provided they are kept on a leash, especially in nature reserves or near livestock. It's always advisable to check specific trail regulations or local signage, but the region's diverse paths offer many opportunities for you and your canine companion to explore together.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in St. Gallen?
The best time for hiking in St. Gallen is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the weather is mild, and trails are clear of snow. Summer offers lush green meadows and comfortable temperatures, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. Higher alpine routes are best enjoyed in mid-summer once snow has melted.
Are there any specific trails known for their panoramic views?
St. Gallen is renowned for its panoramic views. The iconic Säntis Mountain, accessible by cable car, offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Appenzell region and beyond. The St. Galler Panoramaweg provides splendid views of the city, including its Abbey. For a challenging experience, the Panorama Tour – Hoher Kasten via Fählensee to Alp Sigel delivers expansive alpine scenery.
Are there any unique bridge trails in St. Gallen?
Yes, the St. Galler Brückenweg (St. Gallen Bridge Trail) is a unique highlight. This trail winds through the Sitter and Wattbach nature reserve, crossing 18 viaducts, suspension bridges, and historic wooden bridges. A notable feature is the 355-meter-long Haggen bridge, one of Europe's highest, offering an impressive experience.
Where can I find trails that include lakes?
St. Gallen's landscape is dotted with beautiful lakes, providing scenic backdrops for hikes. The 5-lake hike on the Pizol is a challenging route that passes multiple alpine lakes. The Murgsee pleasure tour also offers stunning lake views. Additionally, trails along Walensee and Lake Constance provide picturesque lakeside walking opportunities.
Are there options for winter hiking in St. Gallen?
While many alpine trails are covered in snow during winter, St. Gallen still offers opportunities for winter hiking. Lower elevation paths, especially around Lake Constance or cleared forest trails, can be enjoyed. Some areas also feature designated winter walking paths or snowshoeing routes, providing a different perspective of the snowy landscape.
Most popular routes in St. Gallen
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