Mountain passes around Mervelier, a commune in the Swiss canton of Jura, offer diverse outdoor opportunities. The region features varied terrain, from the tranquil Schelte river valley to challenging ascents. Mervelier is situated near several passes that provide routes for both hiking and cycling. The natural environment contributes to the appeal for visitors seeking active recreation.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more mountain passes around Mervelier.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Beautiful on both sides! From Mervelier, you first have to conquer a few short, steep ramps, then the road flattens out and you go directly along the stream through the narrow valley. From the Scheltenmühle onwards, it climbs steeply again; there are 300 meters of altitude gain from there to the pass crossing. At the very top, a short detour to the Vorder Erzberg mountain inn is worthwhile. There you can refuel and enjoy a fantastic view towards Passwang.
0
0
There are parking spaces directly at the pass
0
0
From Laufen/Röschenz, it's a steady climb and never particularly steep, but it's a long one until you get to the very top. From Metzerlen, it's really nasty and steep, but shorter. One of the region's classics.
1
0
Unfortunately, the Kurhaus is still listed on a hiking map as a catering facility.
0
0
A powerful project with a 40-year-old Colnago.
0
0
The Balmberg is particularly notorious for its extremely steep approach from Welschenrohr. There, the asphalt climb climbs approximately 400 meters with gradients of up to 25%. From Günsberg, it's considerably easier – in comparison – but still a real fitness test!
1
0
For cyclists, the Schelten Pass from Mervelier is highly recommended. It features a difficult ascent on a well-paved, narrow road with minimal motor vehicle traffic, making it an ideal 'VELOPASS'. Another challenging option is the Balmberg Pass Summit, known for its extremely steep approach from Welschenrohr, which serves as a significant fitness test.
Yes, the region offers excellent hiking. The Welschgätterli Pass is particularly noted for its yellow-marked hiking trail connecting Montsevelier and Erschwil. You can also experience the Welschgätterli as part of the Chemin du Val Terbi, a circular route exploring the heights around Montsevelier.
The difficulty varies. Passes like the Schelten Pass from Ramiswil are known for difficult ascents with steep ramps, rewarding you with views after a challenging climb. The Balmberg Pass Summit also presents a very steep approach, making it a real fitness test. However, the Welschgätterli Pass offers an intermediate hiking trail.
Many passes offer scenic beauty and panoramic views. The Schelten Pass, especially on the Jurassic side along the Scheltebach, is described as romantic with natural beauty and excellent panorama views. The Schelten Pass from Ramiswil also rewards with views after its challenging climb.
Yes, the Welschgätterli Pass can be hiked as part of the Chemin du Val Terbi, which is a circular route exploring the heights around Montsevelier.
Beyond hiking and road cycling, the region around Mervelier offers various mountain biking opportunities. You can explore routes like the 'Schelten Pass – Passwang Tunnel loop from Bezirk Thierstein' which is a difficult mountain bike ride, or the 'Welschgätterli Pass – Chienberg Trail loop from Bezirk Thierstein'. For more options, refer to the MTB Trails around Mervelier guide.
Visitors appreciate the challenging yet rewarding routes, especially for cycling, and the tranquil natural environment. The quiet roads of passes like the Schelten Pass, with its natural beauty and panoramic views, are highly valued. Hikers enjoy the picturesque settings and well-marked trails, such as those found at Welschgätterli Pass.
For the Schelten Pass from Ramiswil, it's advised to start early in summer to take advantage of cooler temperatures for the climb. Remember to fill your water bottles at village wells in Corcelle or Mervelier. Be cautious on descents, as there can be rockfall and potholes in certain sections.
The Welschgätterli Pass summit is at an altitude of 810 meters above sea level, situated directly on the border between the canton of Jura and the canton of Solothurn.
Yes, the Mervelier region also offers running trails. You can find various loops, such as 'Running loop from Montsevelier' or 'Running loop from Mervelier'. For more details on routes and difficulty, check the Running Trails around Mervelier guide.
While specific seasonal recommendations aren't detailed for all passes, general advice for challenging climbs like the Schelten Pass from Ramiswil suggests starting early in the morning during summer to avoid the heat. The natural environment and tranquility of the region contribute to their appeal for active recreation, implying spring through autumn would generally be suitable.


See even more epic mountain passes by checking out these guides around Mervelier: