The destination of this challenging oneway trip, is none less than the highest peak of Eastern Switzerland. If you make it to the top, your reward will be a fantastic view on the Appenzell and St.Gallen hills, all the way to Lake Constance.

• Starting point: Wasserauen (train station)
• End point: Schwägalp (bus station)
• Length: 8.2km
• Duration: 4.15h
• Ascending altitude: 1200m
• Descending altitude: 332m

Take the cablecar from Wasserauen to Ebenalp. Then follow the signs to Schäfler, climbing up alpine pastures until you reach the mountain inn at Schäfer. From there a small trail along steep cliffs will take you, bit by bit, to the Säntis. Be careful, though! The last part of the track is very steep and technically challenging enough to merit the name “Himmelsleiter”. There will be parts where you will need to climb, but there are always ropes and steps, that you can hold on to. Enjoy the fantastic view from the Säntis before you take the cablecar down to Schwägalp.

Hint: Do you have time for a two day hike in this region? Why not combine this hike with “Aescher – Enjoy your Swiss Rösti on the Rocks” ? Hike, sleep overnight at the mountain inn Schäfler (reservation in advance needed) and continue with this hike on day two.