Top 7 Gorges around Bodensee (SG)

The region offers several picturesque gorge trails. The Tobelbach Gorge and Rock Overhang features a T2 (T2+) trail along the Tobelbach stream with secured sections and rock overhangs. The Sevelen Schluchtenweg is a popular circular hiking trail known for its natural beauty, steps carved into rock, charming bridges, and impressive glacial mills. Additionally, the Mülenen Canyon, south of St. Gallen, provides a wild and romantic path winding over small bridges alongside the Steinach river.

Yes, the broader Bodensee region, including areas accessible from St. Gallen, offers thrilling canyoning experiences. The Amden Canyon in St. Gallen is a significant destination, known for an impressive 40-meter abseiling section over a dam, offering a challenging full-day tour. While technically in Austria, the Kobelache (Merlin's World) is also a prominent canyoning spot often associated with the region, featuring narrow passages, jumps, slides, and abseiling through waterfalls.

Canyoning experiences vary in difficulty. The Amden Canyon is considered to have a 'heavy' difficulty level, suitable for those seeking a more challenging adventure and typically lasting around 5 hours. The Kobelache offers diverse sections; the full tour requires good fitness and endurance, with prior canyoning or climbing experience recommended due to abseiling sections up to 23 meters high.

For families looking for a less strenuous experience, the Sevelen Schluchtenweg is a peaceful option, offering a nature idyll with informational plaques about the gorge's formation and wildlife. The Mülenen Canyon also provides an accessible natural escape close to St. Gallen, allowing exploration on foot without specialized equipment. These trails offer a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the gorges in a relaxed setting.

You can expect to see a variety of natural formations. The Tobelbach Gorge and Rock Overhang features fire pits in a cave-like ledge and a crack in the rock where water meanders. The Sevelen Schluchtenweg is notable for its impressive glacial mills. The Fuchslochtobel offers a rustic ravine with a jungle atmosphere and a stream cascading over a rock face like a waterfall.

Yes, the Mülenen Canyon, located south of the old town of St. Gallen, is steeped in local legend. It is said to be the place where Saint Gallus stumbled, leading him to build his hermitage there, which eventually contributed to the city's foundation. This gorge offers a wild and romantic path that connects visitors to the region's rich history.

Visitors frequently appreciate the natural beauty and the immersive experience. For instance, the Tobelbach Gorge and Rock Overhang is described as a wonderful place between rocks and a small gorge, with fire pits inviting breaks. The Mattenbachtobel Bridge offers a nice trail in the Tobel with a scenic bridge crossing, while the Bürgertreff Wachmühle and Wooden Covered Bridge is noted for its great gorge and beautiful nature.

The Bodensee (SG) region offers a range of outdoor activities. For gravel biking, you can explore routes like 'Along the Old Rhine – Rheinholz Forest Trails loop from Arbon' or 'Rhine Delta Nature Reserve – Polderdamm Path in the Rhine Delta loop from Gaißau'. You can find more details on the Gravel biking around Bodensee (SG) guide. For running, options include 'Arbon Marina – Seemoosriet Nature Reserve loop from Arbon' or 'Birdwatching Tower Alter Rhein loop from Altenrhein', detailed in the Running Trails around Bodensee (SG) guide.

Yes, several gorges incorporate bridges into their trails, enhancing the hiking experience. The Sevelen Schluchtenweg features charming bridges crossing wild mountain streams. The Mattenbachtobel Bridge is a notable spot within a gorge, offering a scenic route. Additionally, the Wooden bridge and forest path winds through forest areas with a bridge crossing, though parts can be exposed and washed out by rain.

The best time to visit the canyons for hiking and general exploration is typically during the warmer months, from spring through autumn, when trails are clear and weather conditions are favorable. For canyoning, specific weather conditions are crucial, and it's generally recommended during summer when water levels and temperatures are suitable. Always check local conditions and forecasts before planning your visit, especially for water-based activities.