Alp Tschingla: St. Gallen, Eastern Switzerland

The path is one long loop above Walensee, with some of the best views in Eastern Switzerland. Most of the steep climbing is all at the beginning, and then the rest of the trail is a beautiful meandering path right below the Churfirsten mountains. I read on other blogs that the hike up is potentially dangerous, with steep-drop offs in some sections. However, nothing about the trail made me nervous (which, given my fear of heights, is saying something!). So while I felt this needed to be mentioned, I personally didn’t have any problems.

P.S. This is an excellent choice for late fall, if you want to get above the low fog that tends to hang around this time of year!

• Route: Walenstadtberg- Tschingla - Pallis - Hochrugg - Walenstadtberg

• Length and Rating: Moderate. 12km, 900 meters ascent/descent, 4-5 hours.