Hike & Fly Twäriberg

Steep cross in the beaten path

A flight from the Twäriberg (2117 m above sea level) in the Western Sihltal Alps requires a good grip on the soles and perfect wind conditions. And of course a few meters of altitude to overcome.

I spotted the steep, green tooth as I flew past from the air and asked myself, as I have often flown in Hoch-Ybrig, why I had not noticed the Twäriberg sooner. It is actually somewhat overshadowed by the more massive and higher secondary peaks of Druesberg and Forstberg. However, in terms of characteristics and character, it is in no way inferior to them and you can probably guess in which direction my train of thought took its course. Later, at home: studying maps made it clear to me that the Twäriberg is really very steep and whether I would actually be able to take off from the summit seemed increasingly doubtful after my initial optimism. Undoubtedly an uncertainty that fuelled my adventurous spirit and curiosity. Since I prefer to fly down the valley rather than walk and the wind direction and strength have to be perfect for a takeoff from the Twäriberg, I looked at the planning in more detail than I usually do on easier tours. The smaller the leeway, the fewer options for avoiding the situation, the better the external conditions have to match, the more detailed the planning has to be, but also the more likely people are to overlook and romanticize a discrepancy in favor of their goal/plan. These are stumbling blocks and decision-making traps that are exacerbated by stressors (tiredness from climbing, cold, frustration, etc.). Being mature and fit enough to forego a flight and walk down into the valley if the take-off conditions are adverse is an absolute prerequisite for paragliding and hike & fly in particular. If the take-off locations and conditions are unknown, it is therefore advisable to plan the tour as a hike & hike. If things turn out better than expected, you can fly down into the valley. That is very conservative, but in this way you can at least largely prevent time and weather traps. Well, I imagined that a day with little wind, a northwesterly component and little thermals would make the start easier, if not possible at all, and I waited for the right external conditions. August 2, 2021 was to bring them; the rain of the last few days and the associated residual moisture would act as a thermal dampener, but drying out was planned so that the cloud base would rise above 2000 m, the wind was coming gently from the northwest.

Directions

Weglosen (valley station of the Hoch-Ybrig cable cars and landing site) can be reached in 1 hour 20 minutes from the main station via Wädenswil and Einsiedeln using public transport. It takes around an hour by car from Zurich. There is a large, free car park right next to the cable car and landing site.

Ascent

From Weglosen follow the well-marked (white-blue-white) alpine hiking trail in the direction of Druesberg (hut). First steeply through the forest, then up the ladders through the rock band, partly exposed (metal ladder) but well secured, but above all overcoming meters of altitude and sweaty. From Gruebi (1420 m) it becomes more pleasant and flatter, mountain pastures up to the Druesberg hut and with or without a refreshment break continue to point 1601 m. From there follow the alpine hiking trail to the left, pasture paths. From point 1741 m it becomes a little steeper again and the markings become rarer; follow the path on the left (Twäriberg marking on stone) up the scree field and over karst flanks through scree to the Twäriberglücke (2030 m). Climb along the ridge, the summit cross will soon be visible. Walking time 2-3 hours. The route is classified as T4, alpine hiking and alpine equipment is recommended. In my opinion, it is possible without it, but as always, you have to do it yourself. There are three places where you have to walk exposed and unsecured for about 10 m (including a ladder). If you are sure-footed and have a head for heights, I don't think these are too difficult. The ascent leads through rock ledges and brittle karst rock, and rockfall is possible, as is always the case in the mountains.

Takeoff

Very steep, small-scale and overgrown. It is difficult to abort a takeoff. There are a few "flat" square meters directly on the summit where you can prepare. Then look for a suitable spot. Laying out and preparing for takeoff is laborious, so small and light paragliders with short lines are recommended. Be careful: the summit is small and steep and can therefore be hit and washed by winds from all sides, for example thermals from the SE/S. A slight upwind or a weak NW is a must! If there is no wind or a tailwind, I would advise against taking off.
If in doubt, avoid starting from the summit. There are numerous alternative starting points between Twäriberglücke and Druesberghütte.

Flight

Depends on the wing but since small and light paragliders are better suited for takeoff. Back to the starting point or as far as the fabric will take you. Be careful of hay ropes over the alpine meadows. 

Landing

Official landing site in Weglosen, right next to the train and car park. Spacious and easy. Well-known rope marked with buoys from the landing site to Gruebi. The valley wind can blow strongly here on thermal days. As already mentioned, however, thermal days are not suitable for taking off from Twäriberg.

Attention

A difficult takeoff

Conclussion

Very varied ascent, a beautiful (alpine) hike and an impressive summit. A lot of things have to come together at the start, which is difficult. The tour is therefore only recommended for experienced pilots with light equipment. Based on experiences and impressions, autumn seems to be the most suitable time of year (less thermals and possibly deeper vegetation at the take-off point). Good tour!