Oensingen-Balmberg ridge hike

Ascent from Oensingen train station past the Leenflue crag towards Schwengimatt. You’ll catch a view of industrialised Klus and Balsthal. The steep cliffs of the Klus are a veritable paradise for climbing enthusiasts. Passing Berggasthof Schwengimatt, you’ll then take SchweizMobil Route 5 in the direction of Hellchöpfli. The densely populated Swiss Plateau can be seen in the south, with views of the rural Thal Nature Park towards the north. Shortly before the summit of Hellchöpfli (1,232 m above sea level), a well-developed military road appears out of nowhere, leading to a former military base. From Hinteregg, you’ll take a narrow ridge to just before Hofbergli. Here, there’s a fantastic view of the Swiss Plateau and the Alps. Before Hofbergli, there’s a final ascent to the Chambenflue crag, the crossing of which requires surefootedness. Then, pass the rope park via Niederwiler Stierenberg and descend to the post bus stop at Kurhaus Balmberg.