To whet our appetite before the New Year’s Eve fondue, we went on a short winter walk of just five kilometres. We decided to take the trail 991 in the canton of Glarus, which is quite popular at this time of year.

Whether to take snowshoes with you

Actually, this trail is designed for snowshoeing, but as you know yourself, things are different with the snow. The first time I was here was in January 2020 and the situation virtually repeated itself. There was snow, of course, but not enough to put on snowshoes, and the path had already been trodden by amateur winter walkers.

Nevertheless, metal prongs or spikes come in handy at the start, on the slightly snowy and icy steep ascent, and on the final section where the trail goes sharply downhill.

However, instead of snowshoes I used my non-professional, but light and comfortable crampons, which I can put on and take off in three seconds. Those who prefer snowshoeing, however, can walk beside the trodden paths.

The start of the route

The trail starts and ends at the Matt – Weissenberge lift station, which is just 1’255 m above sea level, but from here you can already enjoy the winter landscape. On the entire route you will be accompanied by magnificent views of the valley and the alpine peaks of Glarus.

If not walking, then maybe sledging

Sledding enthusiasts of all ages also visit this place in large numbers. Apparently, when there is little snow during the season, it is specially brought in from the military areas to cover the tobogganing slopes. So if not a walk, then perhaps a sledge ride.

Finally, the whole trail is very well marked with pink posts with red arrows. For motorists, it will be important to note that there is a car park at the lift station.