Appenzell Alp Trail

This circular trail will take you from Urnäsch, the centre of Appenzell customs and traditions, up to Hochalp mountain. There are around 700 metres to climb on this part of the route, but once you are up on the mountain, you will not regret having made the effort. There are hardly any ascents to overcome on the next stretch to Schwägalp, and you walk through unspoilt nature, with much of the land under protection as a nature conservation area. If you do not want to stay overnight on the Schwägalp, you can travel back to Urnäsch in comfort by PostBus. The second day starts with a hike past the alpine cabins on Schwägalp to Chammhalde. You now follow the hiking trail in the direction of Kronberg but take the turn for the Petersalp before reaching the summit. After descending to Blattendürren, hikers have one last short climb up Osteregg mountain. The path then leads through the forest and afterwards the starting point of the trail, Urnäsch, comes into view, which is quickly reached.