Rossstock

Rossstock is a peak of roughly 2,460 m in the Schwyzer Alps, standing on the border of the Swiss cantons of Uri and Schwyz, above Bürglen (UR). It rises on the ridge between the Muotathal and Schächental valleys, east of Lake Lucerne, and suits hikers who want big views and are comfortable on exposed ground.

Where is Rossstock?

The summit marks the cantonal boundary between Muotathal and Unterschächen. Its key col is the Rossstocklücke at 2,286 m. Prominence is about 174 m, with neighbouring Fulen as the parent peak. The area is easy to reach from Altdorf and Flüelen.

How do you climb Rossstock?

The best-documented route is stage 6 of the Alpenkranz trail, running from the Lidernenhütte SAC hut (1,727 m) over the summit and down to Biel above Bürglen. It covers about 7.5 km in around 3 hours 45 minutes, with roughly 730 m of climbing and a similar descent. The path is marked white-blue-white, meaning a demanding alpine route graded T4.

The final climb follows an airy, grassy ridge to the summit cross. On the way down you pass the Rossstocklücke towards Biel. Mountaineering guides also describe an approach from the Riemenstaldnertal valley.

When should you go, and what should you watch for?

Go in summer or early autumn, once the snow has gone. In spring, snow often stays in the Fruttstägen gully. In summer, start early, since afternoon thunderstorms are common. You need sturdy boots, a steady foot and a head for heights. Check the forecast and trail conditions before setting out.

How do you get there without a car?

From Sisikon station, a bus (reservation required) runs to the valley station of the Riemenstalden–Spilau cableway. From Biel in Bürglen, a ropeway and a bus link down to Flüelen and its trains. Accommodation: the Lidernenhütte SAC at the start, and Skihaus Edelweiss or Alphotel Biel-Kinzig near the finish.

What will you see?

Expect a wide panorama over the central Swiss mountains and uncommon alpine flowers on the grassy slopes. The route description suggests buying cheese at Alp Spilau the day before and eating it on the summit.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Rossstock? Sources give 2,460 or 2,461 m above sea level.

Is the climb difficult? Yes, it is a T4 alpine route. It calls for experience on exposed terrain and settled weather.

How long does the hike take? The full Alpenkranz stage from Lidernenhütte to Biel takes about 3 hours 45 minutes.

Is this the same Rossstock as the one in Schwyz? Yes. It is a single mountain on the Uri–Schwyz border, so it is listed under both cantons.