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Switzerland
Eastern Switzerland
St. Gallen
Toggenburg

Alt St. Johann

The best road cycling routes around Alt St Johann und Unterwasser

4.6

(92)

2,527

riders

11

rides

Road cycling around Alt St Johann und Unterwasser is characterized by its location between the Säntis massif and the Churfirsten peaks, offering diverse terrain for cyclists. The region features significant elevation changes with winding roads, providing both challenging ascents and scenic descents. The Toggenburg valley and routes parallel to the Alpine Rhine Valley offer varied landscapes, from green meadows to more demanding mountain passes. This area provides a network of roads suitable for different cycling preferences.

Best road cycling routes around Alt St Johann und Unterwasser

  • The most popular road cycling route is Ascent to Vorder Höhi Pass – View of Lake Walen loop from Unterwasser (Iltiosbahn), a 46.1 miles (74.1 km) trail that takes 4 hours 11 minutes to complete. This route features a significant ascent to Vorder Höhi Pass, offering views of Lake Walen.
  • Another top favourite among local road cyclists is View of the Alpstein Massif – Thur Valley Scenery loop from Unterwasser (Iltiosbahn), a difficult 33.5 miles (54.0 km) path. This route provides views of the Alpstein Massif and traverses the scenic Thur Valley.
  • Local road cyclists also love the View of Hemberg – View of the Churfirsten loop from Unterwasser (Iltiosbahn), a 39.8 miles (64.0 km) trail leading through varied terrain with views of Hemberg and the Churfirsten peaks, often completed in about 3 hours 14 minutes.
  • Road cycling around Alt St Johann und Unterwasser is defined by the dramatic Säntis massif, the iconic Churfirsten peaks, and the authentic Toggenburg valley. The network offers options for different ability levels, from challenging climbs to more rolling routes.
  • The routes in Alt St. Johann are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 1,400 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Alt St. Johann's varied terrain.

Last updated: July 10, 2026

4.9

(12)

296

riders

#1.

Ascent to Vorder Höhi Pass – View of Lake Walen loop from Unterwasser (Iltiosbahn)

74.2km

04:13

1,530m

1,530m

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

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Hard

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Hard
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Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Hard

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

Hard

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Hard
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Tips from the Community

A. Villiger
March 20, 2026, Ricken Pass Scenic Road

The old Rickenstrasse leads with little traffic from Wattwil to Ricken.

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A wonderful destination for a day trip and highly recommended.

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The lake was artificially created to ensure a sufficient water supply in case the town caught fire. This is no longer necessary, as the fire department has more effective firefighting methods than carrying buckets. However, locals and tourists alike enjoy the lake and the town, and it makes for a very picturesque photo opportunity. A short walk around the lake, including a detour into the town, is also possible for travelers during a stopover. Parking behind the lake is free, unless an event is taking place.

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Beautiful view

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Säntis

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Great view on the first few kilometers from Gams to Wildhaus.

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Very nice side road, perfect for cycling, the best alternative to the normal country road.

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The small Schönenberg road to the Ricken Pass from Wattwil lives up to its name. While it does have a few meters of elevation gain, with very little traffic, the climb is a lot of fun and ideal for road cycling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many road cycling routes are available in Alt St. Johann?

There are 12 road cycling routes around Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.

What is the best time of year for road cycling in Alt St. Johann?

The ideal time for road cycling in Alt St. Johann is typically from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the alpine roads are clear of snow, and the weather is generally favorable for enjoying the stunning landscapes between the Säntis massif and the Churfirsten peaks. Winter is primarily a season for snow sports, making road cycling less feasible.

What is the general difficulty level of road cycling routes in this region?

The road cycling routes around Alt St. Johann are predominantly challenging, with 9 out of 12 routes classified as difficult. These routes feature significant elevation changes and winding roads, catering to experienced cyclists seeking demanding ascents and scenic descents. There are also 3 moderate routes available for those looking for a less intense ride.

Are there any circular road cycling routes around Alt St. Johann?

Yes, many of the routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Ascent to Vorder Höhi Pass – View of Lake Walen loop from Unterwasser (Iltiosbahn) is a popular circular route offering impressive views.

What scenic viewpoints or natural features can I expect on road cycling routes near Alt St. Johann?

Road cycling routes in Alt St. Johann offer breathtaking views of the Säntis massif, the iconic Churfirsten peaks, and the authentic Toggenburg valley. You can also encounter natural wonders like the Thur Waterfalls, which add to the scenic beauty. Routes often provide vistas of the Alpstein Massif and Lake Walen.

Are there options for public transport access to road cycling routes in Alt St. Johann?

Yes, Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser are accessible by public transport, which can be convenient for reaching starting points of routes or for combining cycling with other travel. Many routes, such as those starting from Unterwasser (Iltiosbahn), are well-situated for public transport connections.

Where can I find parking near road cycling routes in Alt St. Johann?

Parking facilities are generally available in Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser, particularly near popular starting points like the Iltiosbahn in Unterwasser. These locations serve as convenient bases for embarking on your road cycling adventures.

Are there less crowded road cycling routes available?

The region around Alt St. Johann and Unterwasser is known for its well-maintained side roads, which often provide excellent alternatives to busier country roads. While specific routes may vary in popularity, exploring these quieter options can offer a more serene cycling experience through the picturesque Toggenburg valley.

What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Alt St. Johann?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the dramatic alpine scenery, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the diverse terrain that ranges from valley roads to mountain passes. The well-developed network of routes and the stunning natural environment are frequently highlighted.

Are there any challenging road cycling routes with significant elevation gain?

Absolutely. The region is characterized by its mountainous terrain, offering numerous challenging routes. For instance, the Ascent to Vorder Höhi Pass – View of Lake Walen loop from Unterwasser (Iltiosbahn) covers 74.1 km with an impressive 1,530 meters of elevation gain, providing a strenuous workout and spectacular views.

Are there any longer road cycling routes for endurance riders?

Yes, endurance riders will find several longer routes. The Ascent to Vorder Höhi Pass – View of Lake Walen loop from Unterwasser (Iltiosbahn) is 74.1 km long, while the View of Hemberg – View of the Churfirsten loop from Unterwasser (Iltiosbahn) spans 64.0 km, offering substantial distances for extended rides through varied terrain.

Are there places to stop for coffee or refreshments along the road cycling routes?

The Toggenburg valley features traditional Swiss villages and towns where you can find cafes and restaurants to refuel during your ride. While specific stops depend on your chosen route, the presence of local communities ensures opportunities for refreshments and breaks.

Most popular routes around Alt St Johann und Unterwasser

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