recommended route
479 Churfirsten Panoramabike
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/Photo: Cordula Seiler, Graubünden Ferien - normierte Touren -
/Photo: Cordula Seiler, Graubünden Ferien - normierte Touren
This challenging and in some places exposed panoramic tour makes a lot of demands on the cyclist and his/her mountain bike. It is completely under the spell of the Churfirsten and Lake Walen and is only recommended for experienced cyclists.
difficult
Distance 25.4 km
6:30 h
1,300 m
1,300 m
1,540 m
418 m
From Walenstadt the route initially takes you on the mountain road to Walenstadtberg. At Schrina-Hochrugg a detour to the temple-like «Paxmal» monument is well worth it - Karl Bickel's lifework rests on the basic concept of peace. On unmade roads directly below the Churfirsten the tour continues to Alp Schwaldis and Alp Säls.
The route poses no difficulties as far as Säls; from this point, however, only experienced cyclists should continue. The steep ascent with breathtaking views of the nearby rock faces and the lake is followed by a flat section, before the first ravine is crossed on a rough and stony path. After some 10 minutes of pushing/carrying the bike, you will reach the highest point.
The subsequent trail to Laubegg is narrow, exposed in places and technically demanding. However, the panorama is unforgettable. The further descent includes an initial passage of «bike-pushing», but then becomes more flowing with the exception of a blocked passage shortly before Betlis. A detour to the Seerenbach Falls is worthwhile. From Betlis, follow the lakeside road to Weesen.
The route poses no difficulties as far as Säls; from this point, however, only experienced cyclists should continue. The steep ascent with breathtaking views of the nearby rock faces and the lake is followed by a flat section, before the first ravine is crossed on a rough and stony path. After some 10 minutes of pushing/carrying the bike, you will reach the highest point.
The subsequent trail to Laubegg is narrow, exposed in places and technically demanding. However, the panorama is unforgettable. The further descent includes an initial passage of «bike-pushing», but then becomes more flowing with the exception of a blocked passage shortly before Betlis. A detour to the Seerenbach Falls is worthwhile. From Betlis, follow the lakeside road to Weesen.
Author
Cordula Seiler
Update: July 07, 2016
Difficulty
difficult
Technique
Stamina
Highest point
1,540 m
Lowest point
418 m
Best time of year
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Tips and hints
Start
Walenstadt (428 m)
Coordinates:
SwissGrid
2'742'166E 1'220'479N
DD
47.120032, 9.312218
DMS
47°07'12.1"N 9°18'44.0"E
UTM
32T 523683 5218550
w3w
///retina.flagpole.passports
Destination
Weesen
Turn-by-turn directions
Season
For reasons of safety and wildlife protection, the section between Alp Sälis and Alp Laubegg is only open to cyclists from the beginning of May to the end of November, from 9 am to 3 pm.
Hint
The section between Alp Sälis and Betlis is used by both hikers and mountain bikers at the same time. Therefore please note: Cycle considerately and give way to hikers.
Consideration
One-way traffic Betlis – Fly: The stretch has limited access and is traversable solely during the following times 00.15–00.20 / 00.45–00.50 every hour.
Hint
In order to prevent erosion, only cycle on existing paths and don't cycle with your brakes locked. In difficult places please push your bike.
For reasons of safety and wildlife protection, the section between Alp Sälis and Alp Laubegg is only open to cyclists from the beginning of May to the end of November, from 9 am to 3 pm.
Hint
The section between Alp Sälis and Betlis is used by both hikers and mountain bikers at the same time. Therefore please note: Cycle considerately and give way to hikers.
Consideration
One-way traffic Betlis – Fly: The stretch has limited access and is traversable solely during the following times 00.15–00.20 / 00.45–00.50 every hour.
Hint
In order to prevent erosion, only cycle on existing paths and don't cycle with your brakes locked. In difficult places please push your bike.
Note
all notes on protected areas
Coordinates
SwissGrid
2'742'166E 1'220'479N
DD
47.120032, 9.312218
DMS
47°07'12.1"N 9°18'44.0"E
UTM
32T 523683 5218550
w3w
///retina.flagpole.passports
Arrival by train, car, foot or bike
Equipment
Basic Equipment for Mountain Biking
- Cycling helmet
- Cycling gloves
- Sturdy, comfortable and preferably waterproof footwear
- Layered, moisture wicking clothing
- Rucksack (with rain cover)
- Protection against sun, rain and wind (hat, sunscreen, water- and windproof jacket)
- Sunglasses
- Ample supply of drinking water and snacks
- Cell phone
- Cash
- Navigation equipment / map and compass
Technical Equipment for Mountain Biking
- Air pump or CO2 pump including cartridges
- Puncture repair kit
- Replacement inner tube
- Tire levers
- Chain tool
- Hex keys
- Phone / device holder as required
- Bike lock as required
- Where applicable, the bike must meet requirements for road use by having a bell, front and rear lamps and spoke reflectors
- The 'basic' and 'technical' equipment lists are generated based on the selected activity. They are not exhaustive and only serve as suggestions for what you should consider packing.
- For your safety, you should carefully read all instructions on how to properly use and maintain your equipment.
- Please ensure that the equipment you bring complies with local laws and does not include restricted items.
Reviews
Difficulty
difficult
Distance
25.4 km
Duration
6:30 h
Ascent
1,300 m
Descent
1,300 m
Highest point
1,540 m
Lowest point
418 m
Statistics
2D
3D
Maps and trails
Distance
km
Duration
: h
Ascent
m
Descent
m
Highest point
m
Lowest point
m
Questions and answers
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Rating
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