To begin with, let me clarify that the Churfirsten mountain range actually consists of a dozen peaks. However, only seven of them are the most recognizable, thanks to their characteristic appearance and fairly regular height (Selun 2,205 m, Frümsel 2,263 m, Brisi 2,279 m, Zuestoll 2,235 m, Schibenstoll 2,234 m, Hinterrugg 2,306 m and Chäserrugg 2,262 m).
They belong to the Appenzell Alps and are located between the upper Toggenburg and Lake Walensee.
By the way, this mountain range reminds me of waves on a rough sea. You may see something completely different.
Our goal, however, was not “Die sieben Churfirsten”, but its two peaks Hinterrugg and Chäserrugg. The starting point of the hike is the upper station of the Sellamatt cable car, which we reached by gondola from the village of Alt St. Johann. At the bottom, there is a huge car park in front of the lift. So motorists need not fear.
I’m not going to beat around the bush, the route is quite challenging. From the station you walk uphill almost all the way, quite steeply at times, to Hinterrugg at 2,306 m. It’s about a three hour climb.
The views on the route, as well as the panorama from the top, are of course incredible and make up for all the sweat. So full mobilisation and up you go!
The summit of Hinterrugg is also a great place to rest and eat your own provisions.
If you fancy a mountain restaurant, there is one 10 minutes further on the summit of Chäserrugg. Be warned, however, that due to the popularity of this place and the magnificent panorama, there are quite a few people there. You can also eat in the restaurant at Sellamatt station or along the route in Gasthaus Stöfeli.
On the last section be careful not to deviate from the route. After Chäserrugg mountain station head downhill, under the ski lift. The descent is quite easy and you will cover this part of the route quickly. And all the way back you can see Mount Säntis.
I must admit that I tried out the poles for the first time on the trail. They definitely made the uphill walk easier. Of course, I still need to practice, because they get tangled up under my feet. But I think it is just a matter of practice and soon I will be using them on the mountain ridges.
