Schäfler

Schäfler is a 1,924 m summit in the Alpstein massif, in the canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden, within the municipality of Schwende-Rüte. Just below the top stands Berggasthaus Schäfler, one of the most photographed spots in the Appenzellerland region.

What will you see from Schäfler?

The view stretches from Pilatus to the Zugspitze and, on a clear day, to Lake Constance. The ridge running north of the hut offers natural lookout points over the northern Alpstein chain, with Seealpsee glinting far below. Many visitors come mainly for ridge-edge photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.

How do you get to Schäfler?

The classic approach starts in Wasserauen. Take the cable car up to Ebenalp, then follow the white-red-white marked trail to the hut in about 1 hour 20 minutes. On the way you can detour to the Wildkirchli cave, roughly 15 minutes on foot from the top station, and to Berggasthaus Äscher. A longer option walks from Wasserauen via Seealpsee and Äscher to Ebenalp and on to Schäfler, around 10 km in total. The descent toward Seealpsee can be rocky and loose, so poles and sturdy boots help.

Where can you eat and sleep?

Berggasthaus Schäfler has operated since 1915, and Baptist and Theresia Dörig-Dörig bought it in 1926. It offers 15 beds plus about 70 places in a dormitory. The season runs roughly June to October, with exact dates depending on conditions, so check before setting out. Staying overnight lets you see the ridge without the day-trip crowds.

When should you go, and what should you know?

Summer and early autumn are best, when trails are snow-free and the hut is open. Mornings usually give the clearest views. Drones are banned throughout the Alpstein to protect wildlife, and wild camping along the Schäfler ridge is not allowed. Compared with a stroll around Ebenalp, this route is demanding: you need fitness and a steady step, especially after rain.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Schäfler? The summit is 1,924 m above sea level; sources list the hut between 1,912 and 1,920 m.

How long is the walk from Ebenalp to Schäfler? About 1 hour 20 minutes on a white-red-white marked trail.

Can you stay overnight? Yes, at Berggasthaus Schäfler: 15 beds in rooms and around 70 dormitory places.

Is Schäfler the same as Säntis or Ebenalp? No. It is a separate peak in the same massif, between Ebenalp and Säntis, with its own mountain inn.