Four Headwaters Trail

The moated castle of Europe is wild and full of contrasts: dreamy at Lake Toma, timeless at the eternal ice of the Rhône glacier and playful at the source of the Reuss. The hike to the most important river sources in Europe begins high up on the Oberalp Pass. Discover the origins of the Reuss, Ticino, Rhine and Rhône and immerse yourself in the impressive scenery of the Gotthard massif, the Leventina and the Goms.

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 and ends at the Vermigel hut. The highest point of the hike is at the Maighelspass (2421 metres above sea level), where the idyllic Portgerensee invites you to linger.

The second stage starts at the Vermigel hut and ends on the Gotthard Pass. It leads to the highest point of the Four Springs Trail, the Piz Giübin (2776 metres above sea level), a magnificent vantage point.

The third stage starts on the Gotthard Pass. The hike leads along Lago Lucendro. At the foot of the Lucendro Pass, you discover the source of the Reuss and cross the pass. After a long, panoramic high-altitude hike above the Bedretto Valley, you reach the Piansecco hut.

The fourth stage leads from the Piansecco hut to the headwaters of the Ticino below the Nufenen Pass. The route continues over the Nufenen Pass and through the Ägenetal valley to Ulrichen/Obergesteln. The highest point of this hike is the Nufenen Pass.

The last stage leads from Obergesteln via Oberwald, Gletsch and Muttbach up to the Furka Pass and from there to a viewpoint over the Rhone Glacier. The source of the Rhone can be seen from a distance.

Frequently asked questions