Klewenalp - Isenthal

Dogs Off-leash

Features River/Creek · Views

Starting at Klewenalp at the top of the cable car, hike up to the top station of the Chalen ski lift and beyond it toward Risetenstock. As you finally reach the ridgeline, you're presented with a panoramic view of the Alps and a beautiful valley below.

Make your way down through the valley surrounded by rising ledges and mountain peaks with especially great photo ops at Hinter Jochli and Oberbolgen. From Gitschenen, you're hiking through alpine grazing land, and from St. Jakob to Isenthal, you're along the road next to the small river running out of the valley.

Dogs are welcome on the train, bus, and cable car - make sure you buy an SBB dog pass for the day. You'll need to have your dog on a leash while moving through Gitschenen and St. Jakob because of livestock and herding dogs that accompany them.

The Beckenried cable car station can be reached easily by bus from Stans. Take the cable car from Beckenried to Klewenalp (note - the cable car does not accept SBB tickets; you'll need to purchase one there.)

The steep section from the top of Chalen to Hinter Jochli is the hardest part of this hike. In late October, it was covered in snow and ice and microspikes would be recommended. Descending into the valley is easier but made more complicated by snow if it is present. The valley presents incredible views both near and far. The trail is well marked and you should follow the signs to Gitschenen then Isenthal.

In Gitschenen there is a little alpine restaurant that is perfect for lunch - they serve wine, beer, and a selection of Swiss pasta or potato entrees that are delicious. Credit card is accepted but cash is preferred.

St. Jakob is the first place to pick up the bus heading back toward the lake, or you can continue down the hiking path next to the road/river into Isenthal, which is a picturesque, quiet Swiss town.

Your best bet is to get on the bus at Isenthal Post and take it back to Altdorf or Fluelen, where you can reconnect with the main bus and train network. Make sure you check the schedule and keep track of time because the bus only comes to Isenthal every other hour and weekend service ends around 5:30 pm.

You'll see ibex or chamois high up on the cliffs to your left (Baberg) while walking through the valley to Gitschenen. You're above the tree line for the large majority of the hike and surrounded by alpine grasses.