Spital

Spital is a hill in the Schwyz Alps in canton Schwyz, close to Einsiedeln and Unteriberg. Its summit stands at roughly 1,574 m above sea level (some guides list 1,573 m), making it one of the gentler hiking goals in this part of central Switzerland. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with the hospital in Einsiedeln town, which is a separate institution.

What is Spital?

It is a rounded, grassy summit between the Sihlsee valley and the Iberg valley. At the top you will find a cross, benches and a panorama board. The ascent needs no climbing gear, and the paths are graded T2, which means marked mountain trails of easy difficulty.

How do you get there?

The usual starting point is Unteriberg, from where a route via Blätz and Adler leads to the summit. The loop takes about 4 hours and covers roughly 11 km. The alternative is a traverse from Gross on the Sihlsee: the trail passes Hummel and Bögliegg and reaches Spital after about 2 h 25 min. Gross to Unteriberg takes around 4 hours, 11 km and 763 m of climbing. Buses serve both ends, and a post bus runs back from Gross to Unteriberg.

What will you see?

The summit overlooks the Sihlsee, Lake Zurich and the mountains of Uri and Glarus. Walking from Gross, you cross the Ibergeregg moorland reserve. The boardwalks through the Mösliwald moor can be slippery. A loop variant via Regenegg (1,531 m) adds a second viewpoint.

When should you go?

Summer hiking is listed from May to October. In winter Spital is a snowshoe and ski-touring objective, and the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) describes a ski route from Unteriberg. There are no huts or restaurants on the Gross route, so carry your own food and water.

Practical tips

• Wear hiking boots with good grip, because moor boardwalks and wet grass slopes get slippery.
• Allow 4 hours for the full loop or traverse and check bus timetables.
• Visibility is often best in the morning and after a weather front passes.
• Combine the hike with a visit to Einsiedeln and its abbey.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Spital? About 1,574 m; some sources give 1,573 m.

Is the hike difficult? No. The trails are graded T2 and suit families with experienced children and anyone with basic fitness.

Where is the easiest place to start? Unteriberg or Gross at the Sihlsee; both have bus connections.

Are there restaurants along the way? Not on the Gross route. Bring food and drink with you.