Summit Trail to Mattstogg - Amden's Local Mountain

For a long time, the Mattstogg was Amden's most feared mountain in winter. In 1844, the village was hit by a terrible avalanche. Since then, avalanches with serious consequences have repeatedly occurred. With today's avalanche barriers, the Mattstogg has finally been tamed.

Leisure or Challenge?

There are two options at the start of the hike up the Mattstogg. Firstly, there is the leisurely option of taking the Mattstock chairlift to the Walau mountain restaurant. The other option is a one-hour ascent by foot to Walau.

Once at the top, the trail leads through the forest for around 15 minutes before the first zigzagging ascent on the alpine pasture of Alp Walau. At every bend: a magnificent view of the Glarus Alps and Lake Walensee!

Now the first avalanche barriers appear - you can see the construction at from close. After a short break, the route zigzags between the imposing structures to the transport cable car hut.

Conquer the Summit

Now it's time for the final ascent. At one point, ropes are used for safety. Once you reach the Mattstock at 1936 m above sea level, the view over the ridge into Toggenburg becomes clear for the first time. The view of Speer, Goggeien and Säntis is magnificent. In good weather, you can even see Lake Constance thanks to the incredible views. An entry in the summit book is a matter of honor!

Return along the same route. For the last section, you can again use the chairlift. Or you can hike back to the village on one of the marked hiking trails across lush meadows and past farms.

At a glance

• The tricky passage before the summit requires surefootedness
  The local mountain of Amden
  Be sure to wear good footwear!
  The hiking time is calculated from the top station of the Mattstock chairlift (there and back)
  Recommended hiking maps: Heidiland hiking map 1:50,000, Toggenburg-Walensee 1:25,000