spinner

Rigi - The Path of Mark Twain

Route
Thematic Trail
Length
10.8 km
Travel time
approx. 6 h
Tour details
Tour details
Rigi - The Path of Mark Twain
Durch eine mystische Waldlichtung gehts zum Felsentor
Photo: Wanderblondies, RIGI BAHNEN AG
Rigi - The Path of Mark Twain
Mark Twain Denkmal in Weggis
Photo: Rita Baggenstos, Schwyzer Wanderwege
×

Weggis - Felsentor - Rigi Kaltbad - Rigi Staffel - Rigi Kulm

In the footsteps of Mark Twain. This panoramic mountain hiking trail offers everything for a beautiful hiking day. After the ascent with appx. 1,350 metres of altitude difference, you will be rewarded with fantastic views for this strenuous hike.

Before passengers could comfortably reach the Queen of the Mountains with the first mountain railway in Europe from 1871 onwards, they took this traditional hiking trail from Weggis. So did the world-famous writer and globetrotter Mark Twain. In his book "A Trip to Mt. Rigi" he describes his ascent, which took him three days at that time. On the steep section during this path, 8 information boards invite you to take a breather. The signs take you into the world of the humorous and witty author, who magically describes the Rigi. This passage at the Felsentor is particularly romantic, almost mystical, where massive rock pillars pile up in the lightened mountain forest. From Rigi Kaltbad the hike leads along winding paths to the summit at 1,800 m above sea level.

For your information 

You can find the current operating status of the railways and hiking trails here.

In order to let our next generation also be inspired from the Queen of the Mountains, may we ask you to dispose of your own waste at Rigi Stations. Thank you.

 

Technical details

Tour type
Thematic Trail
Starting point
Weggis
Point of arrival
Rigi Kulm
Difficulty
Medium
Condition
4 / 6
Ascent
1361 m
Descent
28 m
Best Time of Year
May, June, July, August, September, October
Directions

Weggis (435 m) – Felsentor (1120 m) – Rigi Kaltbad (1436 m) – Rigi Staffel (1604 m)– Rigi Kulm (1797 m)

Equipment

High profiled hiking boots or trakking boots, rain jacket, drink, food and walking sticks when possible. 

Author’s advice

My own favourite place to relax is at the Felsentor (the rock gate), where I let the mystical atmosphere flow around me and absorb strength for the way further. The perfect place for just being alone. 

Export
GPX Download

Good to know

Parking

In Weggis village you will find parking spaces for a fee.

Further information on parking

Arrival / Return journey

exit Küssnacht, direction Weggis village

exit Schwyz, direction Brunnen - Gersau - Weggis village

However, we recommend you to arrive by public transportations instead of cars: just lean back, enjoy and do something good for the environment.

Accessible by bus and train
Yes
Public transport

Get here is convenient by bus or boat from Küssnacht or from Brunnen.

Click here for the timetable

Further information & links

In the Footsteps of Mark Twain