Alpine tour on Zurich's "local mountain" with climbing sections, steep paths and a lot of elevation change in a short time.
The route leads over isolated climbing areas, which are secured with ladders and chains. There are two possible ascents, but only one of them is recommended if you are not familiar with the region. The variant from Schwändi is quite demanding and requires a very good choice of route. In the description we stick to the traditional ascent from Klöntalersee or a shortened version from Hinter Saggberg. Ambitious climbers can also start directly from Riedern.
Key Points
Difficulty: medium – difficult, depending on starting point and starting location
When: May - November
Wind direction: W / NW / SE
Height difference / Distance / Time required:
From Riedern: 1870 m / 10.7 km / 5h 50
From Klöntalersee: 1504 m / 7.68 km / 4h 30
From Saggberg: 1287 m / 5.31 km / 3h 50
Ascent
From Riedern: From the car park, head towards Unter Sack Stelliwaldhütte. The start of the hiking trail is at the Wyden retention basin. When you reach Müüsböden, follow the signpost towards Hinter Saggberg/Vorder Glärnisch. From here, simply head towards Vorder Glärnisch.
From Klöntalersee: From the campsite car park, walk towards the reservoir. Just before the reservoir, leave the road and follow the signs towards Weiden/Hinter Saggberg. When you reach the high plateau (alternative landing site), the hiking trail turns right into the open field. The signs lead towards Vorder Glärnisch. From here, simply follow the path.
From Sackberg: The hiking trail is signposted on the right shortly after the car park. Simply follow the path.
Takeoff
Option: 47.021300, 9.040406 Rücken auf dem Sattel, Wind direction NW / W / SE
This launch site is suitable for two wind directions, it is relatively large and there is enough space to lay out. Set the break line close enough as it gets very steep very quickly. You have to be used to launching in alpine terrain. (Medium)
Option 2:47.022141, 9.038099 Windrichtung W / NW
If the wind is coming from the W/NW, the entire slope is very suitable for taking off. It is steeper at the top and a little flatter at the bottom. Good starting is also essential here. If the wind is coming from the east, at least 150m below the summit so that you don't start in the rotor. (Difficult)
Option 3: 47.020260, 9.028877 in poor summit conditions
If it is not possible at the top, you can descend about 300m and start on a large and easy meadow. The meadow is a bit rocky, so watch your lines. (Easy)
Landing
Riedern: There are large landing fields all around Reidern, please choose a mown field. Do not fly too far into the valley, as this is the approach path to the airfield. Be careful, fly over high-voltage power lines at a sufficient altitude.
Klöntalersee: Landing place at the campsite. Be careful with valley winds, as the trees can cause turbulence. A rather difficult landing place, as it is limited on all sides. Alternatively, you can land here at the restaurant on the other side of the lake or even on the beach at the campsite. Be careful, there is always a lot of valley wind and people here.
Saggberg: Easiest landing spot as it is very spacious. Sometimes there are cows, but there will always be enough space. You can land right in front of the car if you choose the option from Saggberg.
Attention
Alpine terrain with all its rough edges. The difficulties are certainly starting in steep and exposed terrain. The starting skills for this type of terrain are definitely a must. Take enough time to read the wind correctly and start cleanly.
Bonus:
If the conditions are good, you can soar further and even fly over the Vrenelis Gärtli. A great flight in one of the most beautiful regions.
