4.5
(34)
191
hikers
04:45
13.6km
750m
Hiking
Hike the difficult Rigi tightrope walk, an 8.4-mile trail with 2464 feet of elevation gain and stunning views of Swiss lakes and Alps.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment that may be dangerous
A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
After 1.47 km for 343 m
Waypoints
Start point
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1.43 km
Highlight • Viewpoint
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11.0 km
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12.4 km
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13.6 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.79 km
5.31 km
1.84 km
359 m
209 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
8.51 km
2.85 km
1.15 km
713 m
278 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Friday 8 May
22°C
11°C
19 %
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Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The Rigi tightrope walk, also known as the Rigi Felsenweg, is a unique and exposed section of the broader Rigi Panorama Trail. While much of the Panorama Trail is considered easy, this specific segment is carved into the mountainside and requires sure-footedness. Some sources describe a 'Rigi tightrope walk' as a 'hard hike' requiring very good fitness and alpine experience due to potentially technical or hazardous terrain. It's important to be prepared for varied conditions.
The Rigi Felsenweg section itself is more exposed than the generally easy Rigi Panorama Trail. While the wider Panorama Trail is often recommended for families and beginners, the 'tightrope walk' segment might be challenging for those without hiking experience or with a fear of heights. It's crucial to assess your group's fitness and comfort with exposed paths before attempting this specific section.
Mount Rigi is well-served by cogwheel mountain trains, making access convenient. You can reach various starting points for the Rigi Panorama Trail, which includes the Felsenweg, via these trains. Specific parking information would depend on your chosen starting point, but public transport is a highly recommended way to access the Rigi area.
Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the trails on Mount Rigi, including the Rigi tightrope walk. However, you will need to purchase tickets for the cogwheel mountain trains or cable cars if you plan to use them to access the trailheads or descend from the mountain.
The best time to hike the Rigi tightrope walk is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. The Felsenweg is not open in winter and may be closed during bad weather conditions for safety reasons. Always check current trail conditions before planning your hike.
No, the Rigi Felsenweg, or 'tightrope walk' section, is generally not open in winter due to safety concerns related to snow and ice. It's essential to respect these closures for your own safety. There are other designated winter hiking trails on Mount Rigi.
The Rigi Felsenweg is a panoramic path carved directly into the mountainside, featuring a fenced barrier for safety. It runs along the slope, sometimes passing through shady woodlands. While the broader Panorama Trail includes wide dirt paths and service roads, the Felsenweg itself is more exposed. You'll also encounter historical elements like old railway bridges and a short tunnel.
The Rigi tightrope walk offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Lucerne, Lake Zug, and Lake Lauerz, as well as the surrounding Alps. Along the route, you'll pass by notable spots such as the Gottertli Viewpoint, the historic Unterstetten Bridge, and the Rigi First viewpoint. The trail also features remnants of an old railway line, adding historical interest.
While Mount Rigi generally welcomes dogs on its trails, the exposed nature of the Rigi Felsenweg might not be suitable for all dogs, especially those not accustomed to challenging terrain or with a fear of heights. If you bring your dog, ensure they are on a leash and capable of handling the path. Always check local regulations regarding dogs on public transport if you plan to use the mountain trains.
Yes, the Rigi tightrope walk (Felsenweg) is part of the larger Rigi Panorama Trail. The route also passes through sections of other official trails such as the Rigi Tour, Rigi Bike Tour, Rigi Scheidegg Weg, and Gätterlipass - Burggeist, offering connections to a wider network of hiking and biking routes on Mount Rigi.
While the immediate 'tightrope walk' section itself is a trail carved into the mountainside, the broader Rigi area, especially around train stations and viewpoints like Rigi Kulm or Rigi First, offers various facilities. You'll find mountain restaurants, cafes, and restrooms at these hubs, which are easily accessible from different points along the Panorama Trail that includes the Felsenweg.
Be careful, it has already happened to me that the cabin from Timpel to Brunnen didn't work when the foehn was strong. However, there is a steep path down. For your information, because of the planning...
Beautiful hike from Rigi Kaltbad to Rigi Scheidegg and further to Urmiberg. By bus to Vitznau or Weggis and by cable car to Rigi. The tour is very easy to walk up to Rigi Scheidegg, from there you should be sure-footed in some places.
A little abbreviated at the end because a storm warning (thunderstorm and hail) came in. You don't have to risk anything, especially not alone.