The hike from Wasserauen to Seeaplsee is one of my favourites, but I can also recommend the hike from Ebenalp to Seealpsee. The climb is pleasant and the hike is definitely worth it. Once you’re at the top, you can enjoy an impressive view of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
Connecting hikes Seealpsee
- Säntis – Seealpsee
- Sämtisersee – Fählensee – Seealpsee
- Hike from Ebenalp to Seealpsee
- Säntis (2’502 m) Hike
The village and the landscape – Seealpsee
I hiked here for the first time after moving to Switzerland. You could say that I fell in love with the Alps thanks to this place. You will understand me when you see the Seealpsee.
Lake Seealpsee is surrounded by an almost unique Alpine panorama. Nearby are Säntis, Alpstein and Hoher Kasten.
At the lake you can relax and have a picnic. There is also the above-mentioned Seeaplsee mountain inn and the Forelle inn nearby. There is also a path around it.
Directions to Wasserauen
The best way to get here is by train. There is a good connection from Zurich to Wasserauen several times an hour with a change of train. The train journey takes 2 hours. On SBB you can check the best connection for you.
If you come by car, there is plenty of parking close to the station. The parking fee for a whole day is CHF 5.
Best time to walk
In one year I visited this place in May, August and December. However, I recommend the trail from June to October. It’s terribly cold in the other months. I have to admit, though, that the view and the peace and quiet made up for my frozen cheeks and noses.
Discover the lake in winter
The Seeaplsee is a popular destination for hikers and skiing enthusiasts. In winter, however, the lake is frozen and should only be enjoyed with caution. Although it can often be foggy and the entire panorama, including the Alpstein, is covered, you can still discover nature and experience many things along the way. It is therefore worthwhile to explore the area around the lake in more detail.
From the top of the surrounding mountains you can enjoy the beautiful view of the frozen lake and the surrounding landscape. As you approach the lake, you can hear the ice crack. However, be careful as the ice can be slippery. If you are looking for the silence of nature, Seeaplsee is a perfect place in winter. Use the time to explore the surrounding landscape and enjoy the solitude.
The route leads from Wasserauen to the Seealpsee. Wasserauen itself is a small village with a few farms, a railway station, and the Wasserauen – Ebenalp cable car station. Car drivers need not worry, as there is also plenty of space to park at the station.
The hiking trail
The trail leads from Wasserauen to Seealpsee. It is not very steep and not alpine. Wasserauen itself is a small village with a few farms, a railway station and the station of the Wasserauen – Ebenalp cable car.
The hiking trail is relatively easy. I think smaller children will be able to manage it with the help of their parents.
Refreshments at Seeaplsee
The Seealpsee is one of the most beautiful lakes in Appenzell and a popular destination for locals and tourists. The clear, clean water entices visitors to swim and splash around in summer, while the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains are popular with walkers in autumn and winter. The lake is also a popular fishing spot and offers anglers the opportunity to enjoy their catch at the jetties or on the shore.
In summer, many groups and families hike to the lake to barbecue, swim and generally spend time in the cooler mountain air. It is therefore a good idea to set off early.
Catering is provided by the Seealpsee mountain inn. Here you can eat well, drink well and also spend the night. The mountain inn is open daily during the hiking season from April to the end of October.
In the immediate vicinity, you can also enjoy a meal at the Berggasthaus Forelle. Overnight accommodation is also available.
Appenzell goats on the trail
And if you’re lucky, you’ll come across Appenzeller goats. Generally, when you are out and about in the mountains, it is not uncommon to see an Appenzeller goat. These animals are used to the cold, harsh climate of the Alps and can often be seen in steep, rugged areas. Although small, they are very hardy and can easily survive in rough terrain.
Appenzell goats are not only widespread in the mountains, but also in other areas of Switzerland. In fact, they are the most commonly seen goat species in Switzerland. They are also common in Germany, Austria and Italy. However, in these countries they are often kept as livestock and are not seen as often in the wild.
Travel tips
Finally, a little tip. If you are walking from Wasserauen station, you can either head towards Rässenaueli, as I suggested in the description, or turn left into Hüttentobel. The first path is easier in terms of surface (asphalt predominates) and somewhat shorter and less steep. You then have to decide whether you want to do the forest walk, which is the second option, at the beginning or at the end of the route.
