Hiking trophy: in the footsteps of the Romans along the Viamala
Hiking trophy: in the footsteps of the Romans along the Viamala
4.9
(69)
293
hikers
04:03
10.7km
580m
Hiking
On the Viamala, the "bad path," you hike from Thusis to Zillis, crossing a breathtaking gorge. The Romans, and then the mule drivers, used this then-very dangerous route to transport goods and livestock. Starting from Thusis train station, you climb a steep climb up to Hohen Rätien Castle – a…
by Graubünden
Last updated: June 16, 2025
Tips
Includes a segment that may be dangerous
A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
After 5.65 km for 254 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
1.95 km
Highlight • Castle
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Tip by
4.67 km
Highlight • Bridge
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Tip by
4.95 km
Highlight • Gorge
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Tip by
10.7 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.47 km
3.25 km
883 m
672 m
171 m
158 m
119 m
Surfaces
6.71 km
1.43 km
1.34 km
893 m
154 m
140 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 21 May
24°C
8°C
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This route was planned by komoot.
From Thusis to Zillis on the Viamala. Avoiding the summer heat and walking through the gorge wasn't a bad idea at all. Although the elevation gain is manageable, you'll quickly work up a sweat. In Thusis, we ascend directly to Hohenrätien Castle, avoiding the "detour" via Ehrenfels Castle. The trail leads over numerous roots, stones, steps, streambeds, scree, bridges, and even a special suspension bridge. The Traversiner Steg, opened in 2005, connects the hiking trail over the 60-meter-wide Traversina Gorge, overcoming a 22-meter elevation difference. At the Zillis Viamala Gorge post bus stop, there are spectacular views, and you can even descend the stairs to the water. Since there are also many "sneaker tourists" there, we take a quick look at the mini-museum, where we learn about the history of the Viamala, which is accessible and accessible by bike. The hiking trail briefly follows the other bank of the Hinterrhein River. After crossing the blue-green water again, we have to conquer a few more meters of elevation before descending to Zillis. From there, the post bus takes us back to Thusis.
Moderately difficult tour, sure-footedness and a head for heights required. We do not recommend hiking over the Traversinersteg during periods of wet weather because of the crossing of scree sections.
Comments
May 17, 2025
On the Viamala, the "bad path," you hike from Thusis to Zillis, crossing a breathtaking gorge. The Romans, and then the mule drivers, used this then-very dangerous route to transport goods and livestock. Starting from Thusis train station, you climb a steep climb up to Hohen Rätien Castle – a place steeped
Translated by Google •
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