Geologischer Wanderweg Alpstein

On the tracks of the earth's history – an educational hiking trail. The route leads from Hohe Kasten via Staubern to Bollenwees. Twenty modern information panels explain a variety of geological phenomena and provide surprising insights into the Alpstein Massif and the Säntis.

The 16-kilometre hike begins at Hoher Kasten, high above the valley. The mountain trail, marked in white-red-white, initially leads to Kastensattel before continuing across open pastures and rocky sections of ridge. With constant ascents and descents, it passes close to Stauberenkanzel. Near Hochhus, the route reaches its highest point at around 1,820 m. The trail then descends to Saxerlücke, the 1,650 m pass between Appenzell Innerrhoden and the St. Gallen Rhine Valley.

Beyond the pass, the long descent begins. Fählensee lies a short distance off the route and initially remains in view before Stiefelwald provides shade. Later, Sämtisersee also appears in the open mountain landscape. Towards the end, the trail follows the Brüelbach for a short stretch. The mountain trail gives way to an easier hiking trail and leads down to Brülisau. The hike ends after a little over five and a half hours; the Brülisau, Kastenbahn bus stop is only a few steps away.