Jura Crest Trail, Stage 4/16

En route to Belchenfluh, the many buildings and coats of arms are reminders of Swiss defences in two World Wars. Soon follows tiny Bärenwil, on via Tiefmatt to Roggen. Far below, Balsthal greets you with its Neu-Falkenstein castle and paper mill.

From the Hauenstein, Löwen bus stop, the hiking trail quickly leaves the village behind. It climbs through woodland and across open meadows to Challhöchi. Beyond, the route continues under the trees once more, passing Drachenloch directly beside the trail. Shortly afterwards, near Ruchen, the hike reaches its highest point at around 1,050 m. After just over two hours, the most demanding ascent is over.

Woodland and pastures now alternate. On the descent, the trail follows the Cholersbach for a short while before reaching Bärenwil. Another ascent follows to Schlosshöchi, continuing over the wooded summit of Roggenschnarz. A long descent then leads down to Balsthal, where the railway station is only a few steps from the end of the route. The hiking trails are waymarked throughout and technically straightforward; nevertheless, at 21 kilometres, with around 950 metres of ascent and a duration of just over six and a half hours, the tour still requires stamina.