4.0
(220)
1,022
riders
15
rides
Mountain bike trails around Alt St Johann und Unterwasser are set within the picturesque Toggenburg valley in Eastern Switzerland, offering a diverse natural environment. The region is characterized by high valleys, serene mountain lakes like Gräppelensee and Voralpsee, and impressive gorges such as Ofenloch. Riders encounter varied terrain, including challenging singletrack paths, alpine roads, and gravel routes that traverse shaded forests and verdant alpine meadows, all framed by the Säntis massif and the prominent Churfirsten peaks.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
4.7
(90)
416
riders
31.5km
02:51
1,040m
1,040m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.8
(78)
326
riders
38.0km
03:36
1,260m
1,260m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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4.7
(18)
112
riders
27.5km
02:37
850m
850m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(16)
64
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
2.5
(2)
18
riders
24.4km
01:58
680m
680m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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From the main road, it is worth looking into the distance, as the magnificent ridge of the Churfirsten is well visible here.
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Gondola lift Gamplüt with wind and solar power The Gamplüt gondola lift runs on solar power. The hot water used in the Gamplüt mountain restaurant comes from the solar collectors and the hot air fireplace in the large hall. When the sun isn't shining, the wind blows. That's why a wind turbine also produces electricity. It goes without saying for us to invest in sustainable energy; the place and nature are close to our hearts. World's first wind and solar cable car in Toggenburg The world's only fully solar-powered gondola lift (as of 2012) is located in Obertoggenburg. It connects Wildhaus with the Gamplüt alpine pasture. The maximum speed of the lift is 19.8 km/h. The photovoltaic systems on the roof of the mountain restaurant and the machine hall supply roughly the same amount of electricity as the lift consumes. Text / Source: Gondola lift Gamplüt https://www.xn--gamplt-7ya.ch/gondelbahn/die-gondelbahn-gampluet-faehrt-mit-solarstrom/
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Bergrestaurant Gamplüt / Gondola lift Welcome to the sunny mountain restaurant Gamplüt, at 1357 m.a.s.l. above Wildhaus, in Obertoggenburg. Our hall for up to 100 people is the ideal place for your Sunday brunch, a birthday party, a wedding or whatever you wish. You can reach the Gamplüt mountain restaurant with our solar-powered gondola lift or on foot. We are here for our guests every day of the year and have a lot to offer for young and old alike. For special occasions, we also serve raclette, fondue or a themed buffet for up to 250 people in front of the open fire, upon prior reservation. Text / Source: Gondola lift and mountain restaurant, Schönenbodenstrasse, Wildhaus https://www.xn--gamplt-7ya.ch/bergrestaurant-gampluet/
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Can be easily avoided on the Alpine road (not on the hiking trails).
1
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Short single trail for all riders
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You've reached the highest point of this tour. At the Gamperfin Haus, you have two options: a short climb and over the Grabserberg, or a descent to the Voralp.
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Small single trail on this tour (500 meters) accessible to everyone.
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Beautiful views of the lower Rhine Valley, Werdenberg, Lichtenstein, and Vorarlberg. Visibility is particularly good during foehn winds.
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The region offers a diverse network of over 15 mountain bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy paths to challenging singletracks, all set within the scenic Toggenburg valley.
The trails around Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser accommodate a wide range of skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route, 8 moderate routes, and 6 difficult routes. Some challenging trails may even require pushing your bike at certain points due to their technical demands.
Mountain bikers in the Toggenburg region will encounter varied terrain, including challenging singletrack paths, alpine roads, and gravel routes. The trails traverse shaded forests and verdant alpine meadows, often framed by the dramatic Säntis massif and the prominent Churfirsten peaks. You'll also find high valleys and serene mountain lakes like Gräppelensee and Voralpsee.
Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty. You can ride past serene mountain lakes such as Gräppelensee and Voralpsee, and explore impressive gorges like Ofenloch Gorge. The trails often offer stunning views of the powerful Säntis massif and the prominent Churfirsten peaks. For example, the Gräppelensee – Gamplüt Mountain Inn loop from Wildmannlisloch is renowned for its scenic vistas.
Yes, the region features impressive natural water formations. You can explore the Ofenloch Gorge, which is a notable highlight. Other nearby waterfalls include Seerenbach Falls, Hüttentobel Waterfall, and Thur Waterfalls, which enhance the scenic beauty of the area.
The mountain bike routes in Alt St. Johann are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 1000 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes, from shaded forests to alpine meadows, and the stunning views of the Säntis and Churfirsten peaks.
Yes, both Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser serve as key starting points for mountain biking adventures, and parking facilities are generally available in these villages to access the trail network. Specific parking information for individual routes can often be found on their respective komoot tour pages.
The Toggenburg region is accessible by public transport. From Alt St. Johann, the Sellamatt cable car provides convenient access to higher altitudes, which can serve as starting points for various trails. Similarly, the Iltiosbahn from nearby Unterwasser offers access to popular areas like the starting point for the Voralpsee – Ölberg Pass loop.
The best time for mountain biking in Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn. During this period, the trails are generally free of snow, and the alpine meadows are lush. While the region transforms into a ski resort in winter, some lower elevation routes might still be accessible depending on snow conditions.
Yes, the Toggenburg region offers options for family-friendly circular tours, particularly in the lower Toggenburg area. These routes are generally less demanding, allowing families to enjoy the scenic beauty together. Look for trails designated as 'easy' to find the most suitable options for riding with children.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the challenging Gräppelensee – Gamplüt Mountain Inn loop from Wildmannlisloch and the moderate Voralpsee – Ölberg Pass loop from Unterwasser (Iltiosbahn).
While many outdoor areas in Switzerland are dog-friendly, it's always advisable to check specific trail regulations before heading out. Some trails, especially those passing through protected areas or private land, may have restrictions. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and kept on a leash where required, and always clean up after them.


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