Läger-Loipe

The trail runs in several loops across the Engstligenalp, the largest high plateau in the western Swiss Alps, affording views of the Wildstrubel and Steghorn on its way past the Lägerstein rock. One big advantage of the trail: at this altitude, the season starts in late autumn – and lasts until spring.

The starting point on Engstligenalp is around 400 m from the stop of the same name. From here, the eight-kilometre trail sweeps in a wide loop across the open high plateau. It initially climbs gently through a landscape of meadows and pastures, with increasingly rocky terrain in between.

After a little over two and a half kilometres, the loop reaches its highest point near the Rotstock at around 2,020 m. The total ascent amounts to approximately 140 metres. The gentle ups and downs give the cross-country skiing a pleasant rhythm. As the broad loop continues, open expanses alternate with rockier sections and wet meadows.

Towards the end, the trail descends again to Engstligenalp. A little over two hours should be allowed for the full loop; the start and finish are in the same place, again around 400 m from the Engstligenalp stop.