Obwalden High Trail: Stage 4

In five one-day stages, this route leads from Pilatus via the center of Switzerland to the Stanserhorn, always at lofty heights and with fantastic views of countless Alpine peaks and a dozen Alpine lakes.

The world's steepest cogwheel railroad from Alpnachstad or the aerial cableway from Kriens take you to the summit of Pilatus, a 2132-metre-high panoramic mountain and spectacular starting point of the Obwalden high-altitude trail. The view extends far down to Lake Lucerne and over countless Alpine peaks. Alternating between fir forests and alpine meadows, you hike along secluded paths into the heart of the Glaubenberg moorland in the Entlebuch biosphere reserve.

Cheese and sausage straight from the alp are a delight and invigorate you on the panoramic hike over the Glaubenbielen Pass to the panoramic world of Lungern-Schönbüel. Höchgumme and Wilerhorn, two rewarding summit destinations on the way to the Brünig Pass, promise breathtaking views down to the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz.

Past picturesque alpine chapels, the trail climbs to the geographical center of Switzerland on the Älggialp. With the glaciated Titlis in sight, you reach the Melchsee-Frutt lake plateau at lofty heights. The route finally explores the eastern flank of the original Melchtal valley and offers beautiful views of the wild landscape. With a bit of luck, you might spot chamois or even an eagle on the way to the Stanserhorn.

Stage 4: High above Lake Lungern, past picturesque alpine chapels, the trail climbs to Älggialp, the geographical center of Switzerland. Over a rocky ridge, you reach the Melchsee-Frutt lake plateau at lofty heights, a destination for those seeking relaxation in summer and winter.