This mountain trail hikes up to a beautiful alpine lake, hidden high up in the alps below some dramatic peaks.

Trail: hard • 3h • 8km loop • 674m up, 670m down
See trail map.

Open: usually July to mid October

It's a tough climb, with rough terrain and steep steps. Best with hiking sticks and good hiking shoes. But not dangerous, suitable for anyone who can go the distance.

How to get there

To reach this trail, you ride the Elm gondola to Ämpächli. The trail is a loop that starts and ends at the gondola station, where you'll find a restaurant.

The Elm gondola is located just past the Elm village – 46.913473, 9.162632.

By car: put Elm in your GPS Nav. When you approach the village, continue on the main road to your right, following signs to Sportbahnen Elm. There is free parking directly in front of the cable car.

By public transport: Take a train to Schwanden, then bus 541 to Elm Sportbahnen, which drops directly in front of the cable car station. This connection runs about once an hour.