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Appenzell - Schafler ridge back down to Seealpsee question

Hi, I plan on doing some hiking in Appenzell in late Sept. The plan is to go from Wasserauen to Seealpsee, up to Aescher/Ebenalp, then on to Schafler.

The question is, once I get to Schafler, to go from Schafler to Mesmer back down to Seealpsee, or Schafler to Alpenalp to Seealpsee. Is there a big difference in the two routes (besides the longer distance with Mesmer) in terms of difficulty or steepness or views?

I'm in relatively decent shape and feel comfortable with the stats of the hike and what I've read so far.

I'm ok with slightly steep inclines downhill as long as they're fairly short, and/or there are stairs/cables to help. (Actually, stairs are great!). I do have a mild fear of heights but am willing to "get over it" for a bit.

Posted by
2241 posts

All Trails lists this as a ‘Hard’ trail with almost 4,000 feet elevation gain in 5.3 miles.

“Parts of this route comprise highly technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience is required.”

Posted by
2 posts

The Schafler ridge is the high point of the mountain. From there, whether it's via Mesmer or Alpenalp is mostly downhill.

I'm not worried about the uphill. That's doable.

I'm wondering what the differences are between the downhill portion for Schafler to Mesmer to the lake, vs Schafler to Alpenalp to the lake, besides Mesmer adding about a mile to the route.