Kulturspur Appenzellerland

As you follow the six stages through archetypal hilly landscapes and gorges and over mountain ranges boasting spectacular views, you will discover the rich cultural diversity of the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden. Picturesque remote farms and charming villages bear witness to the heyday of the local textile industry and the craftsmanship of days gone by.

From Urnäsch railway station, the yellow-waymarked hiking trail heads out into the open, rolling countryside. Between pastures, patches of woodland and scattered settlements, the route soon begins to gain its first metres of elevation. Beyond Schwellbrunn, it leads directly past Stüdliweiher and later continues to Herisau. Constant ascents and descents characterise this 71-kilometre tour, for which just over 24 hours of actual hiking time should be allowed.

The route continues across further ridges and hollows through the hills of Appenzellerland. Villages alternate with open meadows and wooded ravines; the total ascent amounts to around 3,300 metres. After Trogen, the trail follows the Goldach for a short while before climbing the slopes once more.

The ascent to Kaienspitz begins near Rehetobel. At around 1,120 m, this is the highest point of the hike. The route then descends via Heiden, although it remains undulating to the very end. Through pastures and smaller stretches of woodland, the final section leads to Walzenhausen, where the hike ends directly at the Walzenhausen stop.