Mutteristock

Mutteristock is a 2,294 m peak in the Schwyzer Alps above Innerthal and the Wägitalersee in Switzerland. The border between the cantons of Schwyz and Glarus runs along its ridge, so the summit looks down on two lakes: the Wägitalersee to the north and the Klöntalersee to the south.

Where is Mutteristock?

The mountain sits between Glarus and Schwyz. Its northern flanks fall toward the Wägitalersee, its southern ones toward the Klöntalersee. It is the highest point of the range north of the Pragel Pass, and its limestone slopes are often bare of vegetation.

How do you get to the trailhead?

The standard ascent begins at the far end of the reservoir, at Hinterbruch (918 m). From the Innerthal bus stop it is about 5.6 km, roughly 1 h 20 min on foot. You can shorten the approach by bike, boat taxi, regular taxi or car share.

What is the climb like?

Allow 4 to 4.5 hours up, with around 1,380 m of ascent. One summer description goes through Rinderweid above Innerthal and the Torberglücke gap, covering about 4.8 km in total. There is a short exposed passage near Torberglücke. Peakvisor grades the trail T3 (demanding), and Luzern.com rates it ZS. The final kilometres cross very rough ground, so sturdy hiking boots matter. The nearest hut is the Lufthütte.

What makes this mountain stand out?

Mutteristock links two very different landscapes. From the Innerthal side you see the long Wägital reservoir cut into the valley, while beyond the ridge the Klöntal opens up with its own lake. It is far from the tallest summit in the Alps, but its sharp limestone forms and isolated position above two valleys give it a genuine high-mountain feel, especially after several hours of climbing from the valley floor. For hikers who already know the easier paths around the Wägitalersee, it is a natural step toward more serious tours.

When should you go?

Summer, when the rock is dry and free of snow. The limestone here is sharp karst. In winter the peak is a ski-touring objective: the SAC grades the route from the Wägitalersee AD-, and the jagged rock needs a deep snowpack to be skiable.

What should you pack?

• Ankle-high boots with a good sole
• Water and food for a full day out
• A helmet and extra care around Torberglücke
• A current weather and snow report

Frequently asked questions

How high is Mutteristock?

2,294 m above sea level.

Is Mutteristock in canton Schwyz?

It stands on the border of Schwyz and Glarus. Innerthal, where the approach begins, belongs to Schwyz.

How long does the hike take?

About 4 to 4.5 hours of ascent from Hinterbruch, plus around 1 h 20 min to walk there from Innerthal.

Is the route difficult?

Yes. It is a demanding mountain hike graded T3, with a short exposed section at Torberglücke and rugged rocky terrain near the top.