Höhenweg Amden - the classic hike through the high moor
Easy
The varied vegetation and breathtaking views make the Ammler Höhenweg the most popular hike in Amden. There is so much to discover in the midst of pre-alpine landscapes and listen to the sounds of nature. A hiking highlight for the whole family!
Tour details
Best time of year
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
Specifics of the tour
Geological highlights
In early summer, the flowers sprout along the edge of the path, while late summer and autumn bathe the high moor in warm colours. It's not for nothing that the Amden high trail is so popular.
Varied vegetation in the high moor
The Amden high-altitude trail encounters a marshy natural landscape of national importance, overgrown with leguminous pines. Only survival artists thrive on this wet, acidic and barren soil, such as the insectivorous sundew, cotton grass or the inconspicuous sedge. In the somewhat drier fringe area, the so-called heath, blueberries and alpine roses prevail.
Marvellous views of the Glarus Alps
The pre-alpine landscape is also characterised by spruce and mountain pine forests, which open up again and again to reveal a magnificent mountain panorama. From Toggenburg to the Alpstein mountains to the Glarus Alps - the view into the distance is breathtaking! Idyllic fireplaces and several mountain restaurants complete the varied hike along the Amden high-altitude trail.
Directions
Start in Amden
After the ride on the Mattstock chairlift, we reach the Walau
Restaurant Walau. From there we head eastwards in the direction of Hinder Höhi. Passing the Strichbode alpine farm, we reach a small alpine road. The Hinder Höhi moorland, which covers over 6 square kilometres, begins at the end of this road. The raised bog is one of the most impressive peat bogs in Switzerland with unique, up to 200-year-old Legföhren. It is particularly beautiful in the autumn months.
Continue to the small Furgglen alpine farm, an ideal stopover. Adults should not miss the infamous "worm cure". The trail leads across flowering alpine meadows along the Gulme, finally through a small wood via Altsche (another opportunity to stop for refreshments) to the end point at Arvenbüel. Here we get on the bus to Amden. If you still haven't had enough, you can also take the meadow path back to the village (+ 50 minutes).
The high-level trail is just as suitable for hiking in the opposite direction, starting at Arvenbüel. Or as an abbreviated variant: at Alp Hüttlisbode, branch off in the direction of Alp Diggi and return directly to the village of Amden via the managed Tscherwald Naturefriends House.
Between Hinder Höhi and Altsche, the high-level trail leads through a wildlife and nature reserve. Dogs must therefore be kept on a lead.