Weissenstein-Passwang-Weg, Stage 1/2

This trail begins in Solothurn and takes you through the mystical Verenaschlucht (Verena Gorge) and up to the Weissenstein with its traditional spa hotel and breathtaking panoramic views. The trail then descends steeply down into Thal and on to Welschenrohr.

From the Solothurn, Vorstadt bus stop, the route initially leads through the town and past the Cathedral of St Ursus. The built-up area is soon left behind. Following the Verenabach, the trail enters the forest and leads to the Verenakapelle and the nearby hermitage. It then continues northwards via Falleren.

The long ascent follows the mountain stream in places, and later the Nesselbodenbächli. Forest and open pastures alternate as the Jura heights draw closer. By the Sennhaus, the Weissenstein is almost reached. Shortly afterwards, the route reaches its highest point at around 1,280 m, near the Röti; it then continues to the Weissenstein pass.

Beyond the pass, the descent begins through predominantly wooded terrain. In just over an hour, the trail loses considerable elevation, reaches the first houses of Schattenberg and continues to Welschenrohr. After a total of around five hours, the hike ends near the Welschenrohr, Zentrum bus stop.