Fulberg

Fulberg is a high ridge point above Emmetten in the canton of Nidwalden, central Switzerland. At roughly 1,777 m above sea level, it is one of the high spots on the Nidwaldner Höhenweg, a mountain trail that runs along the ridges overlooking Lake Lucerne and the Urnersee arm.

Where is Fulberg?

The summit sits in the range above Emmetten, between the Klewenalp and Seelisberg area and the peak of Niederbauen. On stage six of the Nidwaldner Höhenweg, hikers leave the Brisenhaus hut, pass Scheidegg, Klewenalp-Stafel, the Ronen hut and Wandeli, then climb to Fulberg (1,777 m). From there the path drops to the Berggasthaus Niederbauen inn at 1,570 m.

How do you get there?

Take the bus from Stans towards Seelisberg to reach Emmetten. The valley station of the Niederbauen cable car lies about five minutes on foot from the "Emmetten, Post" stop. A separate six-person gondola carries passengers from Emmetten up to the Stockhütte station.

A popular day route follows the Wildbeobachtungspfad, a wildlife-watching trail: Niederbauen, Fulberg, Langhütte and Stockhütte. From Stockhütte you can walk down to Emmetten in about 1 h 15 min (4.2 km), or ride the gondola.

How hard is the hike?

Trail guides call the tour sporty. The descent from Fulberg uses a steep stepped path, partly secured with steel cables, so you need a steady foot. It is not recommended for children under 10. Swiss hiking authorities rate the Emmetter Alpen route T2: about 4 h 45 min, 12.9 km, 750 m of ascent and 1,040 m of descent. Höhenweg stage six alone takes around 4 hours over 12 km.

When should you go?

The trails are open from June to October. The inns on the route, Berggasthaus Niederbauen and Berggasthaus Stockhütte, serve hikers in the same season. Wear sturdy boots, since the steps can be slick after rain, and carry water and a warm layer because the ridge is windy.

What else should you know?

The area is protected and used for cattle grazing, so dogs must stay on a lead for the whole route. You can plan a loop or a one-way walk that ends with a cable car ride back to the valley, saving about a thousand metres of descent.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Fulberg? About 1,777 m above sea level.

Do I need mountaineering experience? Fitness and a steady foot are enough. The route is graded T2, but the descent has steep steps with cables.

How do I get back to Emmetten without walking down? Ride the cable car from Niederbauen, or the gondola from Stockhütte to Emmetten.

Can I bring my dog? Yes, on a lead, because of nature protection and grazing cattle.