Schnebelhorn

Schnebelhorn (about 1,292 m above sea level) is the highest mountain in the canton of Zurich, rising above Fischenthal in the Töss valley. The cantonal border with St. Gallen runs across the summit, and the peak belongs to the Tössbergland, a gentle, forested range between Zurich and the Toggenburg.

Where is the Schnebelhorn and why visit?

The summit sits on a five-kilometre ridge whose top is the Tweralpspitz (1,332 m) on the St. Gallen side. The Schnebelhorn is no serious alpine objective, but it carries the appeal of being Zurich's roof: this is where you stand at the canton's highest point. Published heights vary between 1,291 and 1,293 m depending on the survey.

What can you see from the top?

On a clear day the view stretches east to the Säntis and southwest to the Mythen. In very good conditions the Bernese Alps appear, with the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, and some hikers report a glimpse of Lake Constance. Below you lie the alpine pastures and woods typical of the Zürcher Oberland.

How do you get to the summit?

The most popular route starts at Steg railway station in the Töss valley (around 700 m). It follows the ridge that marks the cantonal boundary. The loop is roughly 16 to 17 km with about 720 m of ascent and takes 5 to 5.5 hours, with the summit reached after around 2 hours 40 minutes. A shorter alternative begins in Libingen on the St. Gallen side: about 9.6 km, 690 m of ascent and roughly 2.5 hours to the top, graded T2.

Steg has a paid car park (payable via the SBB P+Rail app), though arriving by train is simpler.

Where can you stop for food?

On the way down, many hikers visit the Alpwirtschaft Tierhag, a farm inn serving hearty regional dishes (check opening hours before you go). Further down is the Sennhütte restaurant near the Tössscheidi barbecue spot. The Berggasthaus Hörnli is another popular base, with longer Hörnli and Schnebelhorn loops for experienced walkers.

When is the best time to go?

Pick a clear day between late spring and autumn, when trails are dry and Alpine views carry far. In winter, snow and ice call for extra care, and some of the farm inns close.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Schnebelhorn the highest peak in the canton of Zurich? Yes. It is the canton's highest point and lies right on the border with St. Gallen.

How long does the hike take? From Steg station about 2 hours 40 minutes one way; the full loop takes 5 to 5.5 hours. From Libingen the ascent takes around 2.5 hours.

Is the route difficult? The Libingen route is graded T2 (moderate mountain hiking). Longer loops via Hörnli are described as harder and need good fitness.

Can you eat nearby? Yes: Alpwirtschaft Tierhag, the Sennhütte restaurant and Berggasthaus Hörnli. Check opening days before setting out, as some places open only on certain days.