On the Gäggersteg family and themed trail, visitors learn how three storms of the century shaped the forests in the Gurnigel region. How the forest and nature recovered from the damage and even benefited, and how the people of the region seized the opportunity and made the best of the destruction.
From the parking lot at the Süftenen refuge, follow the signs to Gäggersteg. Experience the untouched forest, the strong wind and impressive roots on the Gägger. On the circular trail, you will also cross the new Gäggersteg - a footbridge that leads through the forest reserve on the Gägger at a height of up to 8 meters and offers both deep insights and wonderful views.
Türst guides the little guests through the circular trail in the accompanying story “Der wilde Türst - das stürmische Spiel im Wald am Gägger”. The children collect 8 different runes at 8 stations and receive a small gift as a reward at the end. Along the way, they learn more about the forest, wind and roots at various adventure stations.
Length: 2.5km
Duration: 1.5 - 2h
Difference in altitude: + 122 m / - 124 m
Accessible by public transport: Only in summer (bus to Rüschegg bus stop, Süfternen junction - see Alpine bus timetable)
Accessible by car: Yes
Information
Naturpark Gantrisch
Schlossgasse 13
3150 Schwarzenburg
The Gäggersteg is always closed in winter from December to April.
General informations:
After storm Lothar caused great damage to the Gägger in 1999, the area was declared a forest reserve in 2000. In 2004 the first Gäggersteg was build. This enabled people to observe how the forest recovered without human intervention. The footbridge also offers a magnificent view of the Gantrisch chain and the Alps. Over the years the old footbridge weathered visibly. In 2019, the old footbridge was finally replaced by the new innovative timber construction, designed by the well-known architect Patrick Thurston. The new 258-metre-long footbridge is a symbol of cooperation in the Gantrisch Nature Park. The wood comes from the region and half of it was donated by the burger communities.
Properties of the itinerarie
Type of activity: Family
Difficulty: Very easy
Duration: 01:30
Distance: 2 km
Ascent/Descent: +122m / -124m
Altitude min./max.: 1528m / 1634m
