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St. Gallen
Sarganserland

Stausee Gigerwald

The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Stausee Gigerwald

4.6

(1494)

11,295

hikers

56

hikes

Family friendly hiking trails around Stausee Gigerwald are set within the Calfeisental valley, characterized by the fjord-like Gigerwald reservoir and framed by steep rock faces and wooded mountains reaching nearly 2,000 meters. The area features numerous waterfalls, including the Bantöni basin, and offers views of the Glarner Alps and Piz Sardona. Hikers will find varied terrain, from accessible paths along the reservoir to more rugged routes deeper into the valley.

Best family friendly hiking trails around Stausee Gigerwald

  • The most…

Last updated: June 29, 2026

4.5

(30)

147

hikers

#1.

View of Piz Sardona – St. Martin Chapel loop from Stausee Gigerwald

11.6km

03:59

450m

450m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Moderate
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Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Hard

Hard hike. Great for any fitness level. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Hard
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Popular around Stausee Gigerwald

Blue lakes, wide panoramas & autumnal splendour – hiking in Heidiland

Lake and Alps Adventure – explore 100 dreamy places in our cycling region!

Other adventures around Stausee Gigerwald

Blue lakes, wide panoramas & autumnal splendour – hiking in Heidiland

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Heidiland

Tips from the Community

Lutzi_P
September 8, 2025, Sankt Martin Berghotel & Alpwirtschaft

A place steeped in history with lots of interesting information about the settlement of the Calfeisen and Taminatal by the Walser people.

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From here onwards you have a great view 😎

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7

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Small, beautiful and idyllic mountain lake in the canton of St. Gallen (not Glarus, as mentioned in other tips). If you want to cool off, this is the place for you.

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7

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Pretty little hamlet at the back of the lake. Lots of tourists stop here by car or bike

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Huge dam with high dam wall

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Paul
September 3, 2023, Gigerwald Dam

Gigerwaldsee, Calfeisental The Gigerwaldsee is located in the Calfeisental and lies above Vättis in the municipality of Pfäfers in the canton of St. Gallen. The elongated Gigerwald reservoir, which is enclosed between rock walls, is located at an altitude of 1335 meters above sea level, is around three kilometers long and 135 meters deep at its deepest point. The lake is fed by the Tamina, the Tellerbach, the Hochbach and other smaller mountain streams. The Tamina flows out of the Gigerwaldsee. The Gigerwaldsee is the largest lake located exclusively in the canton of St. Gallen. At the very back, at the western end of the lake, is the old Walser settlement of St. Martin. A partially tunneled road leads to the hamlet on the southern shore of the Gigerwaldsee. In the summer months there is an inn in St. Martin that offers food, drink and accommodation. Text / Source: schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/gigerwaldsee/

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Paul
September 3, 2023, Gigerwald Dam

Gigerwald Dam, Calfeisental Since 1976, the Tamina has been dammed with an arched dam to form the Gigerwaldsee. The dam is 147 meters high. The reservoir is operated by Kraftwerke Sarganserland AG, which is majority owned by Axpo. Text / Source: schweizersee.ch https://www.schweizersee.ch/gigerwaldsee/

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If, like me, you arrive in the evening and want to go for a little walk, this tour is ideal🤗

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Stausee Gigerwald?

The Stausee Gigerwald area offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with over 50 routes designed for various skill levels. Among these, you'll find 13 easy routes perfect for a relaxed family outing and 18 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more adventure.

What kind of terrain can families expect on the trails around Stausee Gigerwald?

Families can expect varied terrain, from easily accessible paths suitable for all fitness levels to some routes that can be quite rocky. The landscape is dramatically framed by steep rock faces and wooded mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views. While many trails are well-suited for families, it's always good to check the specific route details for any rocky sections.

Are there any specific attractions or landmarks suitable for kids along the family-friendly trails?

Absolutely! The area is rich with interesting sights. A key attraction is the imposing Gigerwald Dam, which families can walk or even cycle across. Further along, the historic Walser settlement of St. Martin offers a glimpse into local heritage. For an exciting experience, look out for the 51-meter-long suspension bridge that provides excellent views of the Batöni waterfalls.

Can we bring our dog on these family hikes around Stausee Gigerwald?

Yes, many trails in the Stausee Gigerwald region are dog-friendly, making it a great destination for families who want to bring their furry companions along. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near livestock, and to check specific route regulations before you go.

Are there any circular routes suitable for families in the Stausee Gigerwald area?

Yes, there are several excellent circular routes perfect for families. For example, the View of Piz Sardona – St. Martin Chapel loop from Stausee Gigerwald offers stunning vistas and a visit to the historic chapel. Another great option is the St. Martin Chapel – Calfeisental loop from Stausee Gigerwald, which explores the picturesque Calfeisental valley.

What is the best time of year for family hiking in Stausee Gigerwald?

The ideal time to visit Stausee Gigerwald for outdoor activities with your family is during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. During this period, mountain roads are typically clear, and the weather is most favorable for hiking. It's worth noting that the reservoir, which was drained for renovations, is expected to be refilled by spring 2025, with a re-opening in early summer 2025.

Is parking available for families visiting the hiking trails?

Yes, parking facilities are available in the Stausee Gigerwald area. It's advisable to check specific starting points for routes to confirm the nearest parking options, especially during peak season, to ensure a smooth start to your family adventure.

Are there any viewpoints with great scenery for families to enjoy?

The entire Stausee Gigerwald region offers spectacular scenery. Many trails provide breathtaking panoramic views, including vistas of Piz Sardona from several hiking routes. The reservoir itself is a striking 'fjord-like' body of water, shimmering in a 'startling shade of turquoise', framed by dramatic mountains. The Gigerwaldsee Panorama Towards St. Martin highlight is a great spot for views.

What makes the Stausee Gigerwald area unique for family hikes?

Stausee Gigerwald stands out for its dramatic natural beauty, combining a stunning turquoise reservoir with steep rock faces and wooded mountains. The blend of natural wonders like the Bantöni waterfalls and man-made marvels like the Gigerwald Dam, along with the historic Walser settlement of St. Martin, creates a diverse and engaging environment that captivates both children and adults.

What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Stausee Gigerwald?

The Stausee Gigerwald area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural environment, the dramatic landscapes, and the variety of trails that cater to different fitness levels. The unique turquoise color of the reservoir and the impressive Gigerwald Dam are frequently highlighted as memorable features.

Are there any trails that feature waterfalls, suitable for families?

Yes, the region is adorned with numerous waterfalls. The impressive Bantöni basin features three waterfalls, two of which can be observed up close. The 51-meter-long suspension bridge, built in 2017, provides excellent views of these waterfalls, making it a thrilling stop for families on their hike.

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