Obwalden High Trail: Stage 1

The first stage of the Obwalden High Trail gets off to a spectacular start: from Alpnachstad, the world's steepest cogwheel railroad climbs the Pilatus. At its steepest point, it measures 48 degrees. The ride alone is an experience.

In the past, many legends were told about Mount Pilatus. It was believed that dragons lived here. According to legend, Pontius Pilate also found his final resting place in the small mountain lake. Hence the mountain's name.

The hike starts at Pilatus Kulm. The path first leads steeply downhill. Along the way, you can enjoy sweeping views of the lakes of Central Switzerland, Lucerne and many Alpine peaks. In around two hours, you descend around 1000 meters in altitude. Rocks and mountain meadows accompany the trail.

From Lütholdsmatt, the trail climbs gently again. A wide gravel road leads towards Wängen, occasionally replaced by a narrow path. The view back to the Pilatus and over to the Stanserhorn is always worthwhile.

At Chrüzliegg, several hours have already passed. This is followed by a varied route over the Schlierengrat ridge. The path leads constantly up and down through blueberry bushes and past old pines and spruces. At Bärnerstig you reach a historic crossing into the Entlebuch.

The descent now begins through a tranquil moorland landscape to Schwendi Kaltbad. This used to be a well-known health resort with moor and sulphur baths. There is a small chapel next to the former spa house, where church services and weddings are held in summer.

The destination of this stage is Langis, above Lake Sarnen. In winter, the area is popular with cross-country skiers and snowshoe hikers. In summer, nature lovers appreciate the protected high moor with birch trees, mountain pines and colorful mountain meadows.