All around the Flügenspitz - with the Coopzeitung

Edition Coopzeitung, 28.11.17 - Pictures Rainer Eder

The starting point of the hike is the village of Arvenbüel above Amden and far above Lake Walen, at around 1300 metres above sea level. The hike with our Wau-Wau begins in a north-easterly direction on the Rietstrasse towards "Brittertannen". 10 minutes is the time to our next waypoint. Arrived at "Brittertannen" we find a cosy place. A fireplace with provided firewood and benches invite us to stay. From here the path leads a little bit downhill to the Beerenbach. Our dogs find here a real water paradise. The natural mountain brook offers in places also beautiful bathing places for dog and his two-legged companion. towards "Altschen". The path gradually rises along the course of the stream until we turn left in the direction of "Altschen". During the summer months, the alpine restaurant is open on weekends. Now the ascent begins along the hiking road to the "Vorder Höhi". At the top we follow the Toggenburger Höhenweg in the direction of "Flügenspitz Süd". You will soon notice that we are walking through moorland here. Again and again Bello finds a small puddle and enjoys the short refreshment. The path is wet in places but mostly well secured. Still the way up shows that. After the "hem" we relax for a short time and take a break. The view into Toggenburg and the Alpstein area with the Säntis is phenomenal. On the hiking trail we continue walking towards the Flügenspitz, which now appears clearly visible in front of us. The Flügenspitz (1701m) can be reached relatively quickly compared to the Leistchamm (2100m) behind it. We arrive at 1660m on well constructed paths. "Flügenspitz 5min" is written here. If you want to you can tackle the summit right away. At the top you can enjoy a wonderful panorama again. The Glarner Alps seem close enough to touch and over the Arvenbüel we look down into the Linth area. If you leave out the summit, you hike straight down towards "Looch". After a few minutes we are in front of the mountain restaurant "Alp Looch". For almost countless years Anni and Toni Gmür have been serving the passing guests up here. For dogs there are always some treats ready. We strengthen ourselves with fine mountain cheese and a barley soup. The last part of the trail leads directly back to our starting point Arvenbüel, which we reach in a good three quarters of an hour from "Looch". Please note: The path leads partly through forest reserves and here you have to put your dog on a leash. Please pay attention to the signs when walking.

In winter: The trail around the Flügenspitz is marked as a snowshoe route and can also be undertaken in winter (please do not reach the summit in winter!).