Four Headwaters Trail
To the sources of the Rhine, Reuss, Ticino and Rhone in 5 stages
The Four Headwaters Trail is an alpine long-distance hike of around 85 kilometres, divided into five daily stages, leading to the sources of the four major Swiss rivers: Rhine, Reuss, Ticino and Rhone. The route is well signposted and can be completed as a multi-day hike or in individual stages. Highlights along the route:
varied landscapes with crystal-clear mountain lakes and bubbling streams
impressive views and immersive nature experiences
diverse flora and fauna
scenic highlights such as Lake Toma at the Oberalp Pass and the Rhone Glacier at the Furka Pass
The five stages
You can find detailed information on the individual stages online or in the brochure.
The first stage leads from the Oberalp Pass to the source of the Rhine at Lake Toma, continuing on to the Vermigel Hut. Crossing the Maighel Pass (2,421 m a.s.l.), the highest point of the stage, you reach the idyllic Portgeren Lake, an inviting spot for a first break surrounded by alpine scenery.
Starting at the Vermigel Hut, this stage climbs to the Piz Giübin (2,776 m a.s.l.), the highest point of the entire Four Headwaters Trail. The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains before the route continues to the historic Gotthard Pass.
The third stage begins at the Gotthard Pass and follows the shore of Lake Lucendro. At the foot of the Lucendro Pass, you reach the source of the Reuss River before crossing the pass. A long and scenic high-level traverse above the Bedretto Valley leads to the Piansecco Hut.
From the Piansecco Hut, the trail heads towards the source of the Ticino River below the Nufenen Pass. After crossing the pass, the highest point of this stage, the route descends through the Ägen Valley to Ulrichen or Obergesteln.
The final stage leads from Obergesteln via Oberwald, Gletsch and Muttbach up to the Furka Pass. From there, a viewpoint offers spectacular views of the Rhone Glacier. The source of the Rhone can be seen from a distance, marking the impressive conclusion of the hike.