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Mountain passes
Switzerland
Eastern Switzerland
St. Gallen

Oberriet

Top 19 Mountain Passes around Oberriet

Mountain passes around Oberriet, located in the Rhine Valley in St. Gallen, Switzerland, serve as a gateway to scenic hiking passes and elevated viewpoints. The region offers opportunities to explore the Appenzell Alps, characterized by forests, meadows, and streams. Hikers can find trails catering to various fitness levels, from easy walks to demanding mountain routes. This area provides access to diverse natural features and panoramic vistas.

Best mountain passes around Oberriet

  • The most popular mountain passes is Saxer Lücke, a mountain pass that is a significant geological formation. It is a highlight with several worthwhile routes, offering insights into its formation and relation to the Bogartenlücke.
  • Another must-see spot is Staufen (Bregenzerwald Mountains), a summit and viewpoint. Visitors can expect a wide view of the Rhine Valley, Lake Constance, and the Alpstein region.
  • Visitors also love Ress Pass, a mountain pass and trail. This pass serves as a crossing point from Brülisau to the Rhine Valley, with paths leading to the Fähnerenspitz.
  • Oberriet is known for hiking passes, elevated viewpoints, and multi-use singletrack trails. The region offers a variety of mountain passes, summits, and natural monuments to see and explore.
  • The mountain passes around Oberriet are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1100 upvotes and 639 photos contributed by users.

Last updated: August 19, 2026

Saxer Lücke

Highlight • Mountain Pass

Please do not encourage others to camp there too. It is forbidden and nature suffers as a result. There is rubbish from campers everywhere and there are plenty of other places where you can camp, just not here! leave your tent at home or in the car. Thanks =)
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please don't encourage others to camp there too. It is forbidden and nature suffers as a result. There is rubbish from campers everywhere and there are plenty of other places where you can camp, just not here! leave your tent at home or in the car. Thanks!

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Wonderful view of Reinthal, Lake Constance, Vorarlberg, the Tyrolean Alps and the Alpstein.

The paths to the Staufenspitz are sometimes very demanding, so you should first find out carefully which path you want to take.

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Ress Pass

Highlight • Mountain Pass

Crossing from Brülisau to the Rhine Valley, the mountain paths leading away to the (rewarding) Fähnerenspitz and on the other hand towards Kamor.

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Kastensattel 1678 m

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Kastensattel 1678 m AI / SG
Appenzell Innerrhoden, St. Gallen
The Kastensattel is a mountain pass at the foot of the Hoher Kasten. It lies directly on the cantonal border of Appenzell Innerrhoden and St. Gallen at an altitude of 1678 meters above sea level. A mountain hiking trail runs over the saddle from Brülisau in Appenzellerland eastwards to Rüthi in the St. Gallen Rhine Valley. From the Kastensattel it is only a twenty-minute hike up to the summit of the Hoher Kasten (1794m above sea level), where you can get something to eat and enjoy the beautiful panorama.
From the crossing, however, there are many other hiking destinations to choose from. Mountain hiking trails lead to Plattenbödeli (1h10min) with the Sämtisersee, to Bollenwees (2h15min) with the Fälensee or to Montlinger Schwamm (1h20min), where there are mountain inns. The valley towns can be reached in just under one and a half hours (Brülisau) or just under three hours (Rüthi).
Text / Source: fuorcla.ch
fuorcla.ch/kastensattel

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Zahme Gocht (1662 m)

Highlight • Mountain Pass

For the "Zahmer Gocht" you need a certain freedom from giddiness, but thanks to the good security it is easy to do and also relatively tame.
After the winter months in spring, when the safety wires have not yet been reassembled, he will go to the "Wild Gocht", so be careful in spring, if necessary inform you beforehand whether the ropes have already been installed.

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Popular around Oberriet

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Tips from the Community

Auf den Berg
August 8, 2026, Kastensattel 1678 m

On the descent from Hohen Kasten, there is no longer any indication of where the path runs towards Bürzelalpe. Further down, you see a trough for the cows to drink from. This is the first landmark. From there, the path is clearly visible. A local told me that this path is no longer maintained and is also no longer on the maps. There were also no markings anymore. However, the path was clearly recognizable all the way down to the valley. And with the Komoot app, the path was clear anyway. The end is brutal. After descending 1,200 meters in altitude, you have to climb steeply again by approx. 200 meters in altitude to the parking lot at the bottom. And that in the midday sun. This is not only sweaty, but you have to fully motivate yourself again after more than 5 hours. But you can manage that too😎

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Targi
July 16, 2026, Saxer Lücke

The Saxer Lücke (approx. 1,670 m above sea level) is a striking rocky notch in the Alpstein between the cantons of Appenzell Innerrhoden and St. Gallen. It is one of the best-known viewpoints in Eastern Switzerland and offers a spectacular view of the jagged rock peaks, the Rhine Valley, and the Vorarlberg Alps. The Saxer Lücke is accessible via well-maintained mountain hiking trails, including from the Staubern mountain inn or from Frümsel. The traverse between Staubern and Hohen Kasten is particularly popular. In summer, the impressive landscape and alpine flora are a draw, while in autumn, seas of fog in the Rhine Valley often create unforgettable panoramas.

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The climb up is a joy, easily managed thanks to the excellent protection.

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Helmut Fußach
November 23, 2024, Resspass

We passed by here on the way from Forstseeli to Fähnerenspitze. 🥰

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Helmut Fußach
November 6, 2024, Resspass

Great climb to the Fänerenspitze

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The Resspass 1,309 m is a drivable crossing between Brülisau (Alpstein) and the Forstseeli (Rheintal).

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JR on Tour
August 30, 2024, Saxer Lücke

Coming from Mutschen, after the Saxer Lücke, the path goes steeply up to the ridge... the view of the Kreuzberge is very impressive...

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From here it is another 15-20 minutes up to the Hoher Kasten... From here you can descend towards the Ruhesitz via two paths, directly and steeper or a little further around the Kamor

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most notable mountain passes and viewpoints around Oberriet?

The region around Oberriet offers several impressive mountain passes and elevated viewpoints. Highly regarded by the komoot community are Saxer Lücke, known for its significant geological formations, and Staufen (Bregenzerwald Mountains), which provides expansive views of the Rhine Valley and Lake Constance. Other popular spots include Ress Pass, a crossing point with paths leading to Fähnerenspitz, and Kastensattel 1678 m, located at the foot of the Hoher Kasten.

What kind of views can I expect from the mountain passes near Oberriet?

Visitors to the mountain passes and elevated points around Oberriet can expect breathtaking panoramic views. From summits like Staufen (Bregenzerwald Mountains), you can see the Rhine Valley, Lake Constance, and the Alpstein region. Fähnerenspitz offers fantastic views over the Rhine Valley and up to Lake Constance, while the Hoher Kasten Summit provides spectacular vistas of the entire Alpstein range.

Are there family-friendly hiking options near Oberriet's mountain passes?

Yes, the region around Oberriet and the Appenzell Alps offers hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels, including options that can be enjoyed by families. While some routes to higher passes are more demanding, there are many paths through idyllic forests and green meadows that are less strenuous. For specific family-friendly routes, it's always best to check individual tour descriptions for difficulty and length.

What is the best time of year to visit the mountain passes around Oberriet?

The best time to visit the mountain passes around Oberriet for hiking is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, trails are clear of snow, and the alpine flora is in full bloom. Some higher passes might still have snow in early spring, so checking local conditions is always recommended.

What natural features can I explore besides mountain passes?

Beyond the mountain passes themselves, the region boasts a rich natural landscape. You'll find idyllic forests, green meadows, and bubbling streams throughout the Appenzell Alps. Highlights like Saxer Lücke are significant geological formations, offering insights into the area's natural history. Many routes also lead to scenic spots like Forstseeli or offer views of Lake Constance.

What outdoor activities are available near the mountain passes around Oberriet?

The area around Oberriet is a hub for various outdoor activities. Hiking is a primary draw, with trails catering to all levels. You can also find excellent opportunities for running and mountain biking. For detailed routes, explore guides like Hiking around Oberriet, Running Trails around Oberriet, and MTB Trails around Oberriet.

Are there challenging hiking routes for experienced hikers?

Yes, the Appenzell Alps offer demanding mountain hikes that require good fitness and sure-footedness. For example, the route to Bogarten Pass involves a steep climb, and the paths to Staufen (Bregenzerwald Mountains) can be very demanding. The loop to Staubern Mountain Inn from Schwammtobel Süd is also rated as difficult, traversing significant terrain.

Can I access these mountain passes using public transport?

Many trailheads and access points to the mountain passes and elevated points are reachable by public transport. For instance, the Hoher Kasten Summit is easily accessible by cable car from Brülisau. For specific passes like Fähnerenspitz or Staubern Mountain Inn, public transport options to nearby villages or starting points are generally available, though some routes may require a longer walk to the trailhead.

Are there any mountain inns or places to eat along the trails?

Yes, the Appenzell Alps region is known for its cozy huts and mountain inns. The Staubern Mountain Inn is a notable destination accessible via a challenging hike, offering a place to rest and enjoy the scenery. The Kastensattel 1678 m is also close to the Hoher Kasten summit, where you can find food and enjoy the panorama.

What do komoot users particularly appreciate about the mountain passes in this area?

Komoot users highly appreciate the stunning panoramic views, the diverse hiking opportunities, and the unique natural features of the mountain passes around Oberriet. Highlights like Saxer Lücke are praised for their geological significance, while Staufen (Bregenzerwald Mountains) is loved for its wide vistas. The community has contributed over 1100 upvotes and 639 photos, reflecting the area's appeal.

Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails around Oberriet's mountain passes?

Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in the Appenzell Alps and around Oberriet. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature protection areas, near livestock, or on busy trails. Specific regulations might apply to certain routes or cable cars, so checking local signage or official websites for particular highlights is recommended.

How long do typical hikes to these mountain passes take?

Hiking times vary significantly depending on the specific pass, starting point, and your fitness level. For example, from Kastensattel 1678 m, it's only a twenty-minute hike up to the Hoher Kasten summit. Longer routes, such as the loop to Staubern Mountain Inn, can take several hours. Always check the estimated duration for individual routes on komoot to plan your trip accordingly.

Most popular routes around Oberriet

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See even more epic mountain passes by checking out these guides around Oberriet:

AltstättenRüthi (SG)EichbergDiepoldsauWidnau

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