4.6
(392)
3,609
hikers
46
hikes
Hiking around Silenen offers access to the dramatic landscapes of the Swiss Alps, including the Maderanertal valley and the majestic Bristen mountain. The region is characterized by high alpine scenery, deep valleys, and a network of trails traversing forests, mountain lakes, and rocky peaks. Elevations range significantly, providing options from serene walks to challenging ascents through varied terrain.
Last updated: August 7, 2026
4.8
(6)
43
hikers
15.7km
07:34
1,120m
1,270m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(59)
403
hikers
8.89km
04:29
710m
710m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

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4.7
(34)
260
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(30)
236
hikers
17.7km
07:27
1,180m
1,170m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(19)
148
hikers
16.1km
09:15
1,680m
1,680m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Popular around Silenen
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Luftseilbahn Chilcherberg, Silenen - History - Year of construction: 1974: In 1972, a cable car cooperative was founded and the five properties were connected by a cable car, which was completely overhauled in 1999 and is technically state-of-the-art today. The Kilcherbergen were probably the last properties in Urnerland to be inhabited year-round without electricity until 1994; only with the construction of a repeater station by the PTT was a power line laid to Chilcherberg, supplying three of the five properties with electricity. A new barn from 1994, located directly at the mountain station, testifies to the will to continue to stay and live in Chilcherbergen. Text / Source: Luftseilbahn Chilcherberg https://www.chilcherbergen.ch/
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Chilcherberg cable car, Silenen Operating hours: Summer In summer, the cable car is operated continuously on demand from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Operating hours: Winter The cable car is operated on request in winter by calling +41 79 339 57 02 Text / Source: Chilcherberg cable car https://www.chilcherbergen.ch/
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E-Bike charging station, Hotel Maderanertal, Balmenegg bike-energy charging station LINE L5B - connection for 5 e-bikes. You can easily rent the right charging cable for your e-bike on site. Text / Source: Hotel Maderanertal, Balmenegg, 6475 Bristen https://hotelmaderanertal.jimdofree.com/ladestation-e-bike/
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Hotel Maderanertal, Balmenegg, Bristen since 1864 at 1349 m above sea level. The venerable Hotel Maderanertal (Chersolon) in Balmenegg has a eventful history behind it. The hotel " Zum Schweizerischen Alpenclub ", as it was called back then, was built in 1864 by Albin Indergand, hotelier and government councillor from Amsteg, and his wife Rosa, née Burkhardt from Basel. It was in the time when the Anglo-Saxons and the lowlanders discovered the mountains and scrambled up the mountain peaks in droves in their free time. At the request of his Basel mountain friends, who mostly belonged to the recently founded SAC, Albin Indergand named the hotel " Zum Schweizerischen Alpenclub " instead of the originally planned " Zum Balmenwald ", without this creating any dependency or obligation towards the SAC. Soon the house no longer met the demands and the influx of the ever-growing number of guests. In 1869, the so-called Dépendance was built. It was followed by another new building, the Villa. In the following years, the hotel complex in Balmenegg was increasingly expanded. Soon there was a bakery, a skittle alley, and a post office. On a hill above the buildings, a charming little church was built in 1888, where, in addition to the Catholic service, an Anglican service was always held due to the numerous English guests. Text / Source: Hotel Maderanertal, Balmenegg, 6475 Bristen https://hotelmaderanertal.jimdofree.com/
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Wonderful waterfall with a great panorama in the background.
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beautiful valley for spending time outdoors
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beautiful valley for spending time outdoors
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Silenen offers a diverse network of over 45 hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. You'll find everything from moderate walks to challenging multi-hour alpine ascents.
The hiking trails around Silenen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic alpine scenery, the tranquility of the Maderanertal valley, and the stunning views of majestic peaks and glaciers.
The best time for hiking in Silenen is typically during the late spring, summer, and early autumn months (June to October) when the alpine trails are clear of snow and the weather is most favorable. This period allows for enjoyment of the rich alpine flora and access to higher-altitude routes.
While many routes in Silenen are challenging, there are several easier options available. The region offers 6 easy trails and 19 moderate trails, providing accessible paths for those new to hiking or looking for a less strenuous experience. These often lead through alpine meadows or around picturesque lakes.
Yes, Silenen features several excellent circular hiking routes. For example, the Windgällen Hut – Golzeren Lake loop from Golzerensee is a popular difficult loop connecting two key features of the Maderanertal. Another option is the Golzeren Lake – Legni Inn loop from Bristen, Talstation Golzern, a moderate trail through alpine meadows.
Absolutely. The Maderanertal valley, accessible from Silenen, is known for its delightful waterfalls cascading down steep rock cliffs. You'll encounter many of these natural wonders along various routes, particularly on trails leading towards Golzerensee or deeper into the valley. The Seewlialp Waterfall – Seewlisee loop from Silenen is a challenging route that specifically highlights a waterfall.
Hikes in Silenen consistently offer glorious panoramic views of soaring mountains, glaciers, and rugged peaks. You can expect to see majestic formations like Gross Ruchen, Chli Ruchen, Gross Dussi, and the solid rock bastions of Gross Windgällen and Bristen Mountain. Many trails also provide stunning vistas of the Maderanertal valley and picturesque mountain lakes.
Beyond the trails themselves, the Silenen region is rich in natural landmarks. You can visit beautiful mountain lakes such as Lake Oberalp, Arnisee (Lake Arni), and Fleschsee. The area also features significant mountain passes like Oberalp Pass and Fiseten Pass, offering additional scenic exploration.
Yes, for multi-day treks, the Maderanertal valley offers options for overnight stays. The Windgällen Hut – Hotel Maderanertal loop from Bristen, Talstation Golzern is an example of a route that can incorporate an overnight stay at the Windgällenhütte AACZ or Hotel Maderanertal, providing a comfortable break amidst high alpine scenery.
Many trailheads in the Silenen area are accessible, with options for both public transport and car. For instance, the Golzerensee is accessible via a cable car from Bristen to Golzern, which connects to public transport networks. Parking facilities are also available at key starting points for many routes, though it's always advisable to check specific trailhead information.
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in the Silenen region, provided they are kept under control, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and to clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for all visitors.
Yes, the Maderanertal valley, a prominent feature of the Silenen region, offers high-altitude tracks suitable for two-day treks. These longer routes provide an immersive alpine experience, often with options for overnight stays at mountain huts like the Windgällenhütte or Hotel Maderanertal.


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