Save this place and discover nearby attractions with NextOnTrip
In the app you can add it to your favorites, see what else is worth visiting nearby on the map, and earn a badge for your visit.
The app is available for iPhone and Android.
About this place
Gauschla is a 2,310 m summit in the Appenzell Alps of the canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland, rising above the municipality of Wartau. It marks the south-eastern end of the Alvier chain and suits experienced hikers and ski tourers rather than casual walkers.
Where is Gauschla?
The peak belongs to the Alvier group, south-east of the Churfirsten. The Alpine Rhine Valley lies on one side and Lake Walensee on the other. Its nearest neighbour is Alvier (about 2,341 m), only a kilometre to the north-west. Gamsberg, Fulfirst and Gonzen belong to the same chain. Some descriptions treat Gauschla as the tail end of the ridge, since Alvier runs out at this slightly lower top.
What is the view like?
The summit is windy and exposed, with wide views over the Rhine Valley and down to Walensee. The north side is moderately steep and broken by rock outcrops, while the southern flank drops sharply towards the Palfries and Seez valleys. The contrast is most striking when you stand on the ridge.
How do you climb Gauschla?
Most routes start around Palfries. The Palfries cable car covers roughly 1,250 m of height in 12 minutes, which shortens the approach considerably. Hiking portals rate the ascent as hard, and one user report grades the descent towards point P8 at T6 with hard-to-find paths. Without alpine experience and navigation skills, pick an easier objective nearby such as Gonzen, reached by a marked trail from Palfries via Alp Riet.
Is it a ski tour?
Yes. Bergwelten lists it as a top ski tour in the Alvier group, with about 1,608 m of ascent. In winter, check the avalanche bulletin and snow conditions before setting out.
When should you go?
Summer and early autumn bring dry slopes and the best visibility. In winter the mountain is a goal for ski tourers with full avalanche gear only.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Gauschla?
It stands at 2,310 m, a little lower than neighbouring Alvier.
Which canton is Gauschla in?
St. Gallen, between Walensee and the Alpine Rhine Valley, north of Sargans.
Is there an easy path to the top?
No. The ascent is rated hard and some descent variants are very demanding. It is a route for people at home in the mountains.
How can I shorten the approach?
Take the Palfries cable car, which lifts you in about 12 minutes to the starting height of many routes in the Alvier range.
Nearby places
Earn badges for the places you visit
Download NextOnTrip, discover new places and check off your trails.