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Appenzell Ausserrhoden

Gübsensee

The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Gübsensee

4.6

(3429)

20,316

hikers

793

hikes

Family friendly hiking trails around Gübsensee are centered around a picturesque reservoir on the western edge of St. Gallen, Switzerland. This area is protected as a nature reserve, home to approximately 50 bird species, and features the historic Gübsensee East dam, Switzerland's first weighted dam. The landscape includes a high valley over the Sitter river at the foot of the pre-Alps, offering scenic vistas and a well-maintained circular path around the lake. Numerous secluded picnic spots and fire pits enhance…

Last updated: May 17, 2026

4.5

(11)

37

hikers

#1.

View of the Sitter Viaduct – Haggen Bridge (Ganggelibrugg) loop from kybunpark

7.73km

02:17

220m

220m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Andrea und Huskys 🐺
March 20, 2026, Tonhalle St. Gallen

The concert hall "Tonhalle St. Gallen" was opened in 1909 and replaced the library hall of the Kantonsschulgebäude, which had become too small and had previously been used for concerts. The Tonhalle hosts the concerts of the St. Gallen Symphony Orchestra, which also serves as the orchestra for the theater opposite. In addition, guest concerts and various other events take place in the Tonhalle. The design by architect Julius Kunkler, who had been the first violin in the orchestra for eleven years, combined the neo-Baroque style typical of concert halls of the time with elements of Art Nouveau. The construction method was revolutionary for concert halls: an reinforced concrete skeleton by the innovative civil engineer Robert Maillart served as the supporting structure, and the outer cladding consisted of plastered brick.

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Since 1983, the Collegiate Church and Cathedral of St. Gallen (actually Collegiate Church of St. Gallus and Otmar) and the entire Abbey District have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The baroque new building of the Benedictine monastery church, built between 1755 and 1766, stands where Saint Gallus is said to be buried. From 720 onwards, Abbot Otmar organised the construction work around the crypt, and his successor Gozbert began the construction of the new monastery church from 820 onwards. The construction of the Collegiate Church in its present form - it is one of the last monumental sacred buildings of the late Baroque period - was planned by Gabriel Loser and Johann Caspar Bagnato. Its two 68-metre-high towers tower above the old town of St. Gallen.

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Beautiful place, very quiet

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A small covered wooden bridge – it stands almost directly under the very high SOB railway bridge and close to power plant buildings. As a result, it doesn't really stand out.

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Paul
December 23, 2025, Cathedral of St. Gallen

Cathedral, St. Gallen Several earlier structures preceded the monumental church. Originally, the chapel of Saint Gallus stood on this site, where the saint was buried around 640. Later buildings incorporated Gallus's tomb. Around 720 (the founding of the monastery), a stone church was built. By the 9th century, the church had already reached its present length. In the 15th century, a new choir in the Gothic style was constructed. In 1756, the monks embarked on the final phase of the church's reconstruction, which was completed in 1766. The renowned architect Johann Kaspar Bagnato played a significant role in the design, while Johann Michael Beer oversaw the construction. The patrons were Abbots Cölestin Gugger von Staudach and Beda Angehrn. After the dissolution of the monastery, the church became a cathedral (bishop's church) in 1824. The church underwent interior renovations from 1961 to 1967 and exterior renovations from 2000 to 2003. The church has an elongated, rectangular floor plan. Within this plan, a rotunda (round structure) is inserted, resembling a transept. On the eastern end, the striking twin-tower facade rises as a dominant feature, the emblem of the Diocese, City, and Canton of St. Gallen. The facade's sculptural decoration includes figures of Saints Maurice and Desiderius and a relief depicting the Coronation of the Virgin Mary by the Holy Trinity. The interior of the church is a three-aisled, free-pillared structure with a central dome (rotunda). High-quality stucco work, vault paintings, altars, and the choir stalls are among the highlights of the interior. The concept of harmoniously coordinated art forms is the work of Christian Wentzinger, sculptor and painter. Text / Source: City of St. Gallen, Town Hall, 9001 St. Gallen https://www.stadt.sg.ch/home/freizeit-tourismus/stgallen-entdecken/stiftsbezirk-unesco-weltkulturerbe.html

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16

1

Beautiful barbecue area, including restrooms and access to the lake. Swimming is permitted in this area.

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1

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Very good for an incline interval training that is not so steep. 👍

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Good information boards for background knowledge about the small reservoir.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Gübsensee?

There are over 390 easy and 376 moderate family-friendly hiking trails around Gübsensee, offering a wide variety of options for all ages and fitness levels. In total, the region boasts nearly 800 hiking routes.

What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes around Gübsensee?

The trails around Gübsensee are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate, making them ideal for families. Many paths, like the popular circular route around the lake, are suitable for walking, jogging, and even cycling. You'll find a mix of paved and natural surfaces, with gentle inclines perfect for a relaxed family outing.

Are there any circular routes suitable for families?

Yes, Gübsensee is particularly known for its family-friendly circular paths. A great option is the Gübsensee West Dam – Gübsensee East loop from kybunpark, which offers a pleasant 5.6 km walk around the reservoir. Another easy circular route is the Gübsensee East – Lake Gübsensee loop from kybunpark, covering about 3.3 km.

What natural features or landmarks can we see along the trails?

Gübsensee offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. You can explore the picturesque Gübsensee East, a nature reserve home to about 50 bird species. Keep an eye out for the historic dam, Switzerland's first weighted dam, built between 1898 and 1900. Some paths also offer impressive views of the SBB Sitter Viaduct, one of Switzerland's highest railway bridges.

Are there specific trails that offer good viewpoints?

Absolutely! The View of the Sitter Viaduct – Haggen Bridge (Ganggelibrugg) loop from kybunpark is a moderate 7.7 km trail that provides excellent panoramic views, including the impressive SBB Sitter Viaduct. Many sections of the circular path around Gübsensee also offer scenic vistas of the lake and surrounding pre-Alps.

Are the family-friendly trails around Gübsensee suitable for strollers?

Many of the paths around Gübsensee, especially the main circular path, are well-suited for strollers due to their flat and well-maintained surfaces. These easy-to-navigate routes make it convenient for families with young children to enjoy the outdoors.

Can we bring our dog on the family hikes?

Yes, Gübsensee is generally dog-friendly. Many of the trails are suitable for walking with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas to protect wildlife. Always ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the natural beauty of the area.

Are there picnic spots or places to rest along the routes?

Yes, the area around Gübsensee is very well-equipped for family outings. Along the circular path, you'll find numerous secluded picnic spots and well-maintained fire pits, perfect for a relaxing break or enjoying a meal amidst nature.

What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Gübsensee?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the well-maintained paths suitable for all ages, and the beautiful views of the lake and surrounding nature. The abundance of picnic and fire pit areas also makes it a favorite for family outings.

Is there public transport access to the hiking trails?

Yes, Gübsensee is accessible via public transport. You can reach the area by bus from St. Gallen, with stops conveniently located near the starting points of many trails. This makes it easy for families to visit without needing a car.

What is the best time of year to visit Gübsensee with family?

Gübsensee is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors, ideal for hiking. In summer, the lake provides a refreshing backdrop, and the picnic areas are perfect for longer stays. Even in winter, the eastern part of the lake rarely freezes, making it a haven for birds and offering unique scenery for a winter walk.

Are there any other interesting man-made features to explore?

Beyond the historic dam, you can discover unique man-made facilities such as the Stream Tunnel, a small passage for a stream, and Inlets 1 + 2, which channel water from the Urnäsch and Sitter rivers into the reservoir. These features highlight the area's engineering history.

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