Top 20 Waterfalls around Lichtensteig
Waterfalls around Lichtensteig are a prominent natural feature of the Toggenburg region in Switzerland. The area is characterized by gorges carved by rivers, offering diverse natural attractions. Lichtensteig provides access to a notable waterfall within its immediate vicinity and impressive cascades nearby. These natural sites are often integrated into well-maintained trails, providing opportunities for exploration and recreation.
Best waterfalls around Lichtensteig
- The most popular waterfalls is Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall, a cave that features an imposing cavern situated behind a waterfall. The site is developed with a trail, benches, and a railing, providing a comfortable resting area for hikers.
- Another must-see spot is Thur Waterfalls and Wild River Trail, a trail featuring spectacular two-stage cascades where the Thur River plunges a total of 23 meters. Visitors can expect wooden walkways built into the rock walls, multiple observation decks, and an illuminated rock tunnel for close views of the powerful water.
- Visitors also love Äulischlucht Gorge, a gorge with a captivating waterfall located directly in Lichtensteig. This natural monument offers rugged rock formations, moss-covered cliffs, and wooden bridges, with opportunities for bathing and grilling.
- Lichtensteig is known for its gorges with waterfalls, impressive multi-stage cascades, and unique cave-waterfall combinations. The region offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, from those directly in town to others accessible via scenic trails.
- The waterfalls around Lichtensteig are appreciated by the komoot community. Users have contributed more than 170 photos and given over 140 upvotes to these natural attractions.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall
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Äulischlucht Gorge
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Invites to stay, bathe and grill.
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Thur Waterfalls and Wild River Trail
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In short: the entire 18 km hike between Stein and Ebnal-Kappel is worth it!
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Libinger Gorge
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along the Töss from Tösscheidi to Ohrüti
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Popular around Lichtensteig
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Tips from the Community
🌿 The Äuli Gorge in Lichtensteig – pure nature in Toggenburg! Turquoise water, mossy rocks, and mystical legends like the Äuli Dog 👻 await you. The perfect place to dive, hike, or simply marvel.
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Äulischlucht in the Felsental. Incredibly beautiful detour into a grotesquely narrow rocky gorge with the Thur flowing through it, with a beautiful waterfall coming from the side.
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is a very impressive place - used to be a pub (hobby)
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Simply super awesome! A great place, the power and beauty of nature is sometimes incomprehensible 💖. It's really cool when you can sit under tons of conglomerate. It would be exciting to hear what this place could tell us...
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This section of the hiking trail on the Thur is considered the most beautiful, interesting, fascinating and wildest section of the trail on the entire Thur! Next to the wild river itself, the narrow path is beautiful. It leads along fascinating forest and rocky slopes, past a flat moor and feeding sites for beavers. But the section above (i.e. south) of Krummenau (from the railway bridge over the river) to just before Nesslau can keep up and is definitely recommended, especially as far as the wildness of the river is concerned. And there are also nice and interesting sections with two higher waterfalls above/south of Nesslau. In short: the entire 18 km hike between Stein and Ebnal-Kappel is worth it!
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Very nice gorge... you can take a break by the water...
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The ideal place to take a break, even with a barbecue area, is very worthwhile
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique waterfall experiences can I find near Lichtensteig?
Near Lichtensteig, you can explore the Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall, where you'll find an imposing cavern situated behind a cascading waterfall. Another unique spot is the Thur Waterfalls, which feature wooden walkways built into rock walls and an illuminated rock tunnel allowing close views of the powerful water. The Äulischlucht Gorge also offers the chance to walk behind its captivating waterfall.
Are there family-friendly waterfalls around Lichtensteig?
Yes, the Äulischlucht Gorge, located directly in Lichtensteig, is an ideal destination for families. It features well-maintained trails of moderate difficulty, gravel banks, bathing facilities, and barbecue areas. The cool, shaded gorge is particularly refreshing on warm days, making it perfect for picnics and swimming.
What is the best time to visit the waterfalls in the Lichtensteig area?
The Thur Waterfalls are particularly impressive during snowmelt or after heavy rainfall when the water flow is at its peak, offering a spectacular natural show. Generally, spring and early summer provide lush greenery and strong water flow, while the shaded gorges like Äulischlucht are refreshing during warmer months.
Can I go swimming or grilling near the waterfalls?
Yes, the Äulischlucht Gorge in Lichtensteig offers gravel banks, bathing facilities, and barbecue areas, making it a great spot for recreation. Additionally, the Thur Waterfalls also provide a barbecue area for visitors to enjoy.
Are there hiking trails that lead to these waterfalls?
Absolutely. The Thur Waterfalls are easily accessible via a short, well-marked path from Unterwasser. The Äulischlucht Gorge also features well-maintained trails. For a more challenging experience, the Libinger Gorge offers steep forest trails and rustic bridges.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see in the gorges around Lichtensteig?
The gorges around Lichtensteig, such as the Äulischlucht Gorge, are characterized by rugged rock formations, moss-covered cliffs, and wooden bridges. You'll also find picturesque riverbeds, dense forests, and the powerful cascades of the waterfalls themselves, creating a mystical and wild atmosphere.
Are there any historical or cultural aspects associated with the waterfalls?
Yes, the Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall has historical significance, as the site was home to a hermitage dating back to 1369. Additionally, a local legend speaks of a black dog guarding a hidden treasure within the Äulischlucht Gorge, adding a touch of mystery to your visit.
What outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls around Lichtensteig?
Beyond exploring the waterfalls, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including touring, road, and gravel biking, around Lichtensteig. For more details on these routes, check out the Cycling around Lichtensteig, Road Cycling Routes around Lichtensteig, and Gravel biking around Lichtensteig guides.
Is it possible to walk behind any of the waterfalls?
Yes, at the Äulischlucht Gorge, visitors can walk behind the waterfall. The Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall also features a large cavern situated directly behind the waterfall, offering a similar immersive experience.
Are there any waterfalls that are considered 'hidden gems' or less crowded?
The Äulischlucht Gorge is considered a hidden gem, particularly favored by locals. It offers a peaceful and wild experience away from typical tourist crowds, especially on weekdays. The Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall is also described as a 'magical secret' for exploration and discovery.
What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls around Lichtensteig?
Visitors appreciate the unique natural beauty and the opportunity for relaxation and adventure. Highlights like the Äulischlucht Gorge are loved for their peaceful atmosphere, opportunities for bathing and grilling, and the chance to climb rocks. The Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall is praised for its imposing and memorable experience, while the Thur Waterfalls are admired for their spectacular cascades and well-designed observation points.
How accessible are the Thur Waterfalls?
The Thur Waterfalls are easily accessible via a short, well-marked path from the village of Unterwasser. This makes them suitable for all ages and fitness levels, allowing many visitors to get close to the powerful water through the unique infrastructure of walkways and tunnels.
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