Mattbachfall

Mattbachfall is a waterfall in the Weisstannental valley, in the municipality of Mels, canton of St. Gallen (Sarganserland region). The Mattbach stream drops here in two separate falls, an upper and a lower one, close to the head of the valley. The lower fall is a short stroll from the car park, so this is a quick scenic stop rather than a full-day outing.

Where is Mattbachfall?

The falls sit deep in the Weisstannental, a side valley branching off at Mels. The valley is known for its cascades: seven named waterfalls and dozens of unnamed ones are counted in the area. Mattbachfall is one of them, and from the car park you also get a view of the neighbouring Isengrindfall. The car park lies at roughly 46.9676 N, 9.2706 E.

How do you get to Mattbachfall?

By car, drive from Mels up the valley to the village of Weisstannen. Cross the bridge there and turn right onto a narrow road. After a few kilometres it ends at a house and a small parking area. The lower fall is under five minutes on foot from there. Parking and viewing cost nothing.

Without a car, take the train and bus to the Weisstannen Oberdorf stop (about 1.5 hours from the region's larger towns), then walk roughly 5 km to the falls.

What will you see?

Two drops on a single stream. The lower fall is easy to reach, while the upper one takes more effort. The ground right beside the lower fall can be muddy, steep and slippery, especially on the left-hand side, where visitors scramble up for a closer look. It is not ideal for very small children. Isengrindfall is visible from the parking area, so one stop covers two waterfalls.

When should you go?

Early summer is best, when snowmelt feeds the stream and the falls carry the most water. The road is often usable already in April and May, before the mountain cable cars open for the season, which makes it a good spring alternative to higher routes.

What else is nearby?

• Alpe Walabütz, an alpine hut near the falls known for its cheese and a popular cycling target (a Komoot route links it with Mattbachfall).
• The Muttenbach, Sässbach and Piltschina falls near Batöni: about 4 km and 500 m of ascent from Weisstannen, or 80-90 minutes on foot.
• Weisstannen village itself, a base for exploring further up the valley.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to hike to reach Mattbachfall? No. Once you park, the lower fall is a few minutes' walk away.

Is there an entrance fee? No, the site is open and free.

Is it suitable for young children? Stay at the lower fall with little ones, as the slopes beside the water are steep and muddy.

When does the waterfall carry the most water? In early summer, during the main snowmelt.