Best canyons around Hauptwil-Gottshaus are more accurately described as gorges and natural ravines, characteristic of the Swiss Plateau's river courses. This region features picturesque landscapes with forests, meadows, and flowing streams. While not home to large, dramatic canyons, Hauptwil-Gottshaus offers accessible hiking trails and natural attractions that explore smaller gorge-like features. These areas provide opportunities to experience varied terrain and natural beauty.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
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Very pleasant from the St. Gallen side,… slightly uphill from AR,…..
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The Steinach River's gradient has been used by the town's mills since ancient times. The Mühleggbahn, opened in 1893 as a water-ballast cable car, was later converted first into a cog railway and then into an inclined lift. It covers a distance of 323 meters and overcomes a height difference of approximately 70 meters.
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Colloquially, this bridge is called "Ganggelibrugg" because it sways slightly (ganggelet) due to its light construction.
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Right on the edge of the old town is this small Mülenen gorge with waterfall, in St Gallen
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Instead of taking the train, it is worth taking the path through the "Mülenen Gorge". The path follows the water, which thunders into the depths, and crosses the stream twice.
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The bridge has a gradient of about 4% from the Appenzeller in the direction of St. Gallen.
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Small bridge over the mill gorge and the waterfall
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At the lower end of the valley - according to legend - Saint Gallus is said to have stumbled and fallen on thorns. He saw this as a sign from God and built a hermitage here. The city of St. Gallen grew out of this hermitage. The Collegiate Church of St. Gallen is just north of this narrow basin, where the Steinach is canalised today. The town's mills have been in operation since early times in the valley immediately in front of the former miller's gate in the south of the town. That's where the name comes from. Historically, the name was written without an "h", but both spellings can now be found. Possibly influenced by Müller's spelling, there are also spellings with a double L. Several of the old houses in the gorge still exist, but water wheels are no longer found. The Mülenen Gorge was the city's first industrial district. By the beginning of the 19th century at the latest, further industrialization had to be shifted to St. Georgen above the gorge for reasons of space. This is where the machine factories that are important for St. Gallen embroidery were built. Since the path through the gorge was steep and arduous and still is today, a cable car was built in 1893 with the Mühleggbahn, which leads directly from the monastery to the Müleggweiher pond at the upper end of the gorge. The existing water of the Steinach was ideal for the construction of a water weight cable car. (Source: "Wikipedia")
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The region offers several distinct natural features. The Haggen Bridge Over the Sitter Gorge provides expansive views high above the Sitter river, popular with cyclists and walkers. Another highlight is the Mühletöbeli Gorge Waterfall, where a short, shaded trail leads you past the wild Steinach river. For a wildly romantic experience, visit Hohlen Stein Gorge, featuring a large semi-cave, a waterfall, and a well-developed path with stairs.
Yes, several areas are suitable for families. The Hohlen Stein Gorge is described as suitable for children, offering a barbecue area and a path along the Sonnental village stream. Additionally, the area around the ford in the Wissbach gorge is noted for its great hiking trails, barbecue spots, and opportunities for children to splash in the water.
You'll encounter a variety of natural beauty, including impressive waterfalls, flowing streams like the wild Steinach and Chellenbach, and lush forests. Many gorges feature unique rock formations, such as the large semi-cave at Hohlen Stein Gorge. The region's topography, characteristic of the Swiss Plateau, means you'll find picturesque landscapes with green meadows and varied terrain.
The Mühletöbeli Gorge Waterfall is not only a natural wonder but also a historical site. The Steinach river, which flows through it, has been utilized by mills since early times, reflecting the historical interplay between the landscape and local industry. The nearby Mühleggbahn, an old funicular, further highlights this historical connection.
Beyond exploring the gorges themselves, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes around Horbacher Pond and Hauptwiler Weiher. There are also cycling routes, such as those crossing the Haggen Bridge Over the Sitter Gorge, and running trails for those looking for a jog.
The region is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring, with vibrant foliage or blooming flora. Summer provides a refreshing escape into the shaded gorge trails, especially near waterfalls like the Mühletöbeli Gorge Waterfall, where the water masses provide a cooling experience.
Many trails are considered intermediate, but there are options for various fitness levels. For instance, the path along the Chellenbach is described as an easy-to-walk, beautiful trail-like forest path. Some areas, like the Hohlen Stein Gorge, feature well-developed paths with stairs for steeper sections, making them manageable for most visitors.
Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and tranquility. They appreciate the 'wildly romantic' atmosphere of places like Hohlen Stein Gorge and the trail path along the Chellenbach, often highlighting the cooling effect of the water and the peaceful babbling of brooks. The impressive views from spots like the Haggen Bridge Over the Sitter Gorge are also highly rated.
Yes, some gorge areas are equipped with facilities for visitors. The Hohlen Stein Gorge features a barbecue area with a view of the enchanting backdrop. Additionally, the gorge around the ford in the Wissbach is noted for having barbecue areas along its hiking trails.
The Hohlen Stein Gorge is a notable natural monument, featuring a large semi-cave and a waterfall. The area around the ford is also recognized as a natural monument, showcasing interesting gorge formations and opportunities to interact with the Wissbach river.
The ford is a unique spot where you can cross the Glatt river. While it's usually not possible to cross with dry feet, a bypass is available via the Divisionssteg. This area is part of a beautiful and interesting gorge with great hiking trails and is suitable for children, offering chances to splash in the Wissbach.
Many visitors describe the Hohlen Stein Gorge as a 'wildly romantic ravine' due to its semi-cave, waterfall, and path along the babbling stream. Similarly, the trail path along the Chellenbach is also noted for its 'wildly romantic' and natural ravine setting, with an idyllic atmosphere accompanied by the quiet babbling of a brook.


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