Top 9 Gorges around Filisur

The most notable gorges are the Zügenschlucht and the Landwasser Valley gorge. The Zügenschlucht is a 3-kilometer stretch formed by the Landwasser River, known for its impressive rock formations. The Landwasser Valley gorge is famous for the iconic Landwasser Viaduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Landwasser Valley gorge features dramatic limestone cliffs, reaching heights of 65 meters where the Landwasser Viaduct stands. The Zügenschlucht is characterized by its rugged and romantic landscape, including the notable 'Bärentritt' passage and impressive rock formations along the Landwasser River.

Yes, the Landwasser Valley gorge is home to the Landwasser Viaduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of engineering built between 1901 and 1902. Within the Zügenschlucht area, you can find a signposted educational rock trail and the Schmelzboden Mining Museum, offering insights into the region's geology and history.

You'll find a variety of trails. The Zügenschlucht offers an easy-to-navigate section of the Epic Trail with breathtaking views. For more challenging options, consider the Descent from Monstein to Jenisberg and Zügenschlucht, which features a narrow and exposed path, or the Monstein–Wiesen Mountain Trail, which is technically demanding with significant drops. For more hiking options, see the Hiking around Filisur guide.

While some trails are challenging, the section of the Epic Trail through the Zügenschlucht is generally easy to navigate, making it suitable for families. The educational rock trail in the Zügenschlucht also offers an engaging experience for all ages.

The gorges are generally best visited during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when hiking trails are clear of snow and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. This also allows for optimal viewing of the Landwasser Viaduct and the natural scenery.

Besides hiking, the area around Filisur offers excellent opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. You can explore various routes, including those that pass by the Landwasser Viaduct or through the Zügenschlucht. For more details, check out the Cycling around Filisur and MTB Trails around Filisur guides.

Numerous viewpoints offer stunning photographic opportunities of the Landwasser Viaduct. Hiking trails lead to and under the viaduct, providing different perspectives of its grandeur. Traveling on the Rhaetian Railway across the viaduct also offers unparalleled views into the gorge. The '4-Viaduct hike' is a classic route for spectacular views.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in the region, but it's always advisable to keep them on a leash, especially on narrow or exposed paths like those found in parts of the Descent from Monstein to Jenisberg and Zügenschlucht or the Monstein–Wiesen Mountain Trail, for their safety and that of other visitors.

The Landwasser Bridge, while less known than the Viaduct, has become a cult site among mountain bikers. It gained fame after Danny MacAskill balanced on its wall for his 'Home of Trails' video, making it a point of interest for those seeking adventurous rides and views of the gorge.

For hiking in the Filisur gorges, it's recommended to pack sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing (layers are best), water, snacks, a map or GPS device, and sun protection. For more challenging trails, consider trekking poles. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

While the Landwasser and Albula rivers flow through the gorges, wild swimming is generally not recommended due to strong currents, cold water temperatures, and potential hazards. It's best to enjoy the rivers from the safety of the trails and viewpoints.