Gross Fläsch

Gross Fläsch is a high-alpine spot above Flüelen in the canton of Uri, in the Schwyz Alps. Around 1,800 m, a small mountain lake known as Fleschsee or Fleschseeli sits beside the Fleschpass saddle (1,812 m). Right at the tree line among grazing pastures, it is a favourite day-hike goal from Eggberge.

Where is Gross Fläsch?

The lake lies roughly 3 km north-east of the Eggberge cable car top station, in the municipality of Bürglen. Its elevation is just over 1,800 m (Fleschsee: about 1,806 m). The Fleschpass is one of the high points on the Schächentaler Höhenweg trail. Do not confuse it with Fläsch in Graubünden, which is an unrelated village.

How do you get there?

From Flüelen, on the Urnersee, take the Flüelen–Eggberge cable car (LFE); its valley station stands next to a bus stop and car park. From the top station, the walk to the lake takes about 90 minutes. Two routes lead there: the direct, official path, and a steeper variant via Hüenderegg that adds about 15 minutes and 50 m of climbing. The final ascent to the lake is fairly steep, as is the descent towards Biel.

What is there to see and do?

The lakeshore has several fire pits with tables, benches and a covered wood store, plus drinking water, shaded spots, a public toilet and water play for children. If you would rather not grill, the Alpenkiosk serves food on a sunny terrace and has its own toilets; check its opening hours before you set out. Plan 2 to 4 hours for the visit.

Which trails pass nearby?

The Schächentaler Höhenweg runs from Eggberge past Fleschsee to the Klausen Pass: about 21.7 km with roughly 1,160 m of ascent, graded T2, open June to October. The Eggberge–Fleschseeli–Ratzi section also works as a separate one-day tour. Beyond the lake the path drops to Alpstubli Selez and on to the Ruogig cable car station, a convenient place to end the hike early.

When should you go?

June to October, when the trails are snow-free. Cable car and kiosk schedules vary by season, so check them in advance.

Frequently asked questions

Is Gross Fläsch the same as Fleschsee? The name covers the hill with the Fleschpass saddle and the Fleschsee lake. Visitors usually head for the lake and its kiosk.

How long is the walk from the Eggberge cable car? About 90 minutes one way.

Can you barbecue there? Yes. There are fire pits with tables, benches and covered firewood.

Are there water and toilets? Yes, drinking water and a public toilet at the lake, and the kiosk has toilets too.