Switzerland — Linthal
Limmerensee Hike: A moderate 18.5km Swiss Alps day walk offering stunning panoramas above the turquoise reservoir. This 6-8 hour route winds through rugged highland wilderness, revealing deep valleys and striking peaks. Expect varied terrain and a rewarding alpine experience in the Glarus region.
Distance: 18.5 km
Elevation Gain: 950 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 6-8 hours
The Limmernsee Hike is a spectacular day walk in the heart of the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views and a rewarding challenge. This route takes you high above the Limmerensee reservoir, providing panoramic vistas of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and the striking turquoise waters of the lake itself. It's a journey that combines accessible alpine scenery with a genuine sense of mountain adventure, making it a must-do for hikers visiting the Glarus region.
The Limmernsee Hike is a testament to the dramatic beauty of the Swiss Alps. Starting from the high-altitude Kalktrittli station, accessible via the Limmernbahn cable car, the trail immediately immerses you in a rugged, mountainous environment. The path winds its way around the vast Limmerensee reservoir, a man-made lake whose vibrant turquoise hue contrasts sharply with the surrounding grey rock and green alpine meadows. This is not a gentle stroll; the trail involves significant elevation changes, including a substantial climb to the highest point of the hike, offering unparalleled views across the Glarus Alps.
The route is characterised by its varied terrain. You'll traverse well-maintained gravel paths, rocky sections, and potentially some steeper, more exposed areas, especially as you ascend towards the higher viewpoints. The landscape is sculpted by glaciers and time, with dramatic rock formations, scree slopes, and patches of resilient alpine flora. The air is crisp and clean, and the silence is broken only by the wind, the distant bleating of sheep, or the call of a mountain bird.
This hike is particularly rewarding for its accessibility to such a high alpine environment. The cable car significantly reduces the initial ascent, allowing hikers to reach the heart of the alpine scenery within a reasonable timeframe. The panoramic views from the higher sections of the trail are truly spectacular, encompassing a vast expanse of peaks, valleys, and the shimmering reservoir below. It’s a day of immersion in raw, untamed mountain nature, offering a profound sense of accomplishment upon completion.
The Glarus Alps, where the Limmernsee Hike is situated, have a long history of human interaction, primarily driven by resource extraction and pastoralism. For centuries, these mountains provided grazing land for livestock, and the construction of reservoirs like the Limmerensee in the 20th century reflects the region's importance for hydroelectric power generation. The infrastructure, including the Limmernbahn cable car, is a modern testament to the engineering required to harness the power of these alpine environments.
The development of hiking trails in Switzerland is deeply rooted in the country's tradition of mountaineering and tourism. The paths you walk on are often ancient routes used by shepherds and farmers, or they have been specifically developed to allow access to scenic viewpoints and natural wonders. The Limmernsee Hike benefits from this well-established network of marked trails, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for hikers of varying abilities.
While not steeped in ancient Māori history like the Milford Track, the Glarus region has its own rich cultural heritage. The canton of Glarus is known for its distinctive dialect, its historical independence, and its contributions to Swiss industry and politics. The presence of the reservoir itself signifies a modern chapter in the region's history, one where natural resources are managed for energy production, yet the landscape's inherent beauty is preserved and made accessible for recreation.
The Limmernsee Hike is best undertaken during the warmer months, typically from June to October. During this period, the snow has generally melted from the higher trails, making them safe and accessible. The alpine meadows are often in bloom, adding vibrant colours to the already stunning scenery.
Summer (June to August): This is the peak season for hiking in the Swiss Alps. The weather is generally warmer, and the days are long, providing ample time for the hike. However, summer can also bring thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoons. It's crucial to start your hike early in the morning to avoid the worst of the weather and the crowds.
Autumn (September to October): This season offers crisp, clear air and spectacular autumn colours in the lower valleys. The crowds tend to be smaller, and the temperatures are cooler, making for comfortable hiking conditions. However, the risk of early snowfall increases as the season progresses, especially at higher elevations. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Winter (November to May): The Limmernsee Hike is generally not feasible during winter due to heavy snowfall and avalanche risk. The cable car may also operate on a reduced schedule or be closed entirely. This period is for experienced winter mountaineers only, with appropriate gear and knowledge.
Weather Reality: Alpine weather is notoriously unpredictable. Even in summer, conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for all types of weather, including sunshine, rain, wind, and even snow, regardless of the season. Layering clothing is essential.
Early Morning: Travel to Tierfehd and Cable Car Ascent
Morning: Begin the Hike from Kalktrittli
Midday: Traverse the Reservoir and Ascend to Higher Ground
Afternoon: Reach Highest Viewpoints and Begin Descent
Late Afternoon: Return to Kalktrittli and Cable Car Descent
Important Notes:
The Limmernsee Hike is a day walk, meaning accommodation is not a primary concern on the trail itself. However, planning your travel to the trailhead and understanding the logistics of the Limmernbahn cable car are crucial. The nearest major city with comprehensive transport links is Zurich. From Zurich, you can take a train to Linthal, which is the gateway town to the region. From Linthal, a local bus service will take you to Tierfehd, the base station for the Limmernbahn cable car.
If travelling by car, you can drive directly to Tierfehd. There is parking available at the cable car station. The road leading to Tierfehd is paved and generally in good condition. It's advisable to check local road conditions, especially if travelling outside the main summer season.
Understanding the operating schedule of the Limmernbahn cable car is paramount. It typically runs during the summer months and may have limited hours, especially at the beginning and end of its operating season. Always verify the current schedule online or by contacting the cable car operator before your visit.
This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation.
No specific permits are required for the Limmernsee Hike. The trail is part of the public hiking network in Switzerland, and access to the area is generally free. The primary requirement for accessing the trailhead is the use of the Limmernbahn cable car, for which a ticket must be purchased.
Limmernbahn Cable Car:
Important Considerations:
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Limmernsee Hike (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Limmernsee Hike, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The Glarus region offers a wealth of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, complementing the Limmernsee Hike:
Pre-Hike Checks:
On the Trail:
Rescue Services: In case of an emergency, contact the Swiss emergency number (144). Be prepared to give your exact location. Rescue operations in remote alpine areas can be complex and time-consuming.
Limmerensee Reservoir Views: The primary point of interest is the reservoir itself. Its striking turquoise colour, a result of glacial silt suspended in the water, is a photographer's dream. The scale of the reservoir, surrounded by imposing mountain peaks, creates a dramatic and memorable landscape. Take time to find different vantage points along the trail to appreciate its beauty from various angles.
Kalktrittli Station Views: The starting and ending point of the hike, Kalktrittli, offers an immediate reward with expansive views. From here, you can often see across to other prominent peaks and valleys in the Glarus region. It's a great spot for initial orientation and a final appreciation of the alpine panorama before descending.
Alpine Flora and Fauna: Keep an eye out for the resilient plant life that thrives in the alpine environment. Depending on the season, you might see colourful wildflowers, hardy grasses, and mosses clinging to rocks. Birdlife is also present, and you might spot chamois or ibex in the more remote areas, though they are often shy.
Geological Formations: The landscape is a result of millions of years of geological activity. Observe the rock formations, scree slopes, and the evidence of glacial erosion that have shaped the dramatic topography of the Glarus Alps.
The Limmernsee Hike traverses a pristine alpine environment. Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is essential to preserve its beauty and ecological integrity for future visitors.
Plan Ahead and Prepare: Understand the trail, weather, and any specific regulations before you go. Pack appropriately for the conditions.
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stay on the marked trails. Avoid walking on fragile alpine meadows or disturbing vegetation. The trail itself is the designated durable surface.
Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out everything you pack in. This includes all food scraps, wrappers, and any other litter. Use designated toilet facilities where available, or if not, dig a cathole at least 60 metres away from water sources, trails, and campsites, and bury human waste.
Leave What You Find: Do not take rocks, plants, or any other natural objects. Leave them for others to enjoy.
Minimise Campfire Impacts: Campfires are generally not permitted on day hikes and are not relevant to this trail. If camping were permitted, use established fire rings and keep fires small.
Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not feed animals, as this can harm their health and alter their natural behaviours.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise levels down and yield to other hikers. Respect the peaceful nature of the alpine environment.
