Top 15 Waterfalls around Herisau
Best waterfalls around Herisau are found in a region known for its natural beauty, including gorges and rivers. Herisau, a village in Appenzell Ausserrhoden, serves as a gateway to these natural features. The area offers diverse hiking routes around Herisau with waterfalls, providing scenic experiences for visitors. These natural features around Herisau contribute to its appeal as an outdoor destination.
Best waterfalls around Herisau
- The most popular waterfalls is Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall, a cave that features an imposing waterfall. This spot is worth seeing and experiencing for its impressive natural formation.
- Another must-see spot is Wissbach Gorge and Historic Power Plant, a gorge and historical site. Visitors can expect a wild and romantic side valley with narrow forest trails, a covered wooden walkway, and a historic power plant.
- Visitors also love Waterfalls, which are several small to impressive waterfalls found on the way from Petersalp towards Guggeien. These waterfalls make the hiking trail special, especially with enough water.
- Herisau is known for various types of waterfalls, including those within gorges, alongside caves, and as part of scenic forest trails. The region offers a variety of waterfalls to see and explore, from imposing cascades to smaller, splashing falls.
- The waterfalls around Herisau are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 230 upvotes and over 170 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
Wissbach Gorge and Historic Power Plant
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall
Highlight • Cave
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
Mühletöbeli Gorge Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Höchfall 🤩
Highlight • Waterfall
The Höchfall is a first-class highlight, absolutely worth seeing 🤩🤩🤩
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Wissbachschlucht Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more waterfalls around Herisau.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Herisau
The Herzroute – Cycling through the heart of Switzerland
Via Jacobi – Following the Way of St James across Switzerland
Lake and Alps Adventure – explore 100 dreamy places in our cycling region!
Road Cycling Routes around Herisau
Hiking around Herisau
Cycling around Herisau
Running Trails around Herisau
MTB Trails around Herisau
Gravel biking around Herisau
Mountain Hikes around Herisau
Other adventures around Herisau
Tips from the Community
Very long, covered stairs, a bit strenuous uphill with a bike.
0
0
Scenically very beautiful path with many small bridges, picnic spots etc.
0
0
The Steinach River's gradient has been used by the town's mills since ancient times. The Mühleggbahn, opened in 1893 as a water-ballast cable car, was later converted first into a cog railway and then into an inclined lift. It covers a distance of 323 meters and overcomes a height difference of approximately 70 meters.
0
0
gorgeous - iron grid stairs with dogs difficult - only accessible with mountaineering dog 🐕⛰️
0
0
The highest point was very impressive, although there was not much water this time, but the descent and ascent to the waterfall and then the descent to the upper reaches above the waterfall were also very impressive.
0
0
Wild, beautiful, shady, simply impressive and beautiful. Access is well earned via the descent of over 300 steps, some of which are quite high. The descent and ascent are generally very well prepared.
0
0
A magical place, the descent requires good fitness and good footwear!
0
0
Right on the edge of the old town is this small Mülenen gorge with waterfall, in St Gallen
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique natural features to explore around Herisau's waterfalls?
Beyond the waterfalls themselves, you can discover fascinating natural formations. The Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall offers an imposing cave alongside a cascade. The Wissbach Gorge and Historic Power Plant features a wild and romantic side valley with narrow forest trails and a covered wooden walkway.
Are there family-friendly waterfall experiences near Herisau?
Yes, the Wissbach Gorge and Historic Power Plant is particularly recommended for families with children. It offers numerous barbecue and rest stops right along the river, and the covered wooden walkway makes it accessible and enjoyable for all ages. It's an ideal spot for a refreshing experience, especially on warm summer days.
What historical sites can be found near the waterfalls around Herisau?
The Wissbach Gorge and Historic Power Plant is a notable historical site. You can see a historic power plant, providing a glimpse into how small power plants operated in the past, alongside the natural beauty of the gorge. The Mühletöbeli Gorge Waterfall also has historical significance.
What kind of hiking trails can I find near Herisau's waterfalls?
The region offers diverse hiking routes. For instance, the Wissbach Gorge features narrow forest trails that lead right along the river. The trail to Waterfalls from Petersalp towards Guggeien offers several cascades, though some sections can be steep with loose gravel, requiring caution.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls around Herisau?
The waterfalls are beautiful throughout the year, but the Wissbach Gorge is particularly refreshing and enjoyable on warm summer days. During spring, with snowmelt, the water flow is often at its most impressive, making the cascades more powerful.
Are there any challenging waterfall hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, the detour to Höchfall 🤩 involves a new, steep path. Accessing this waterfall requires good fitness and appropriate footwear due to the challenging terrain, but it is considered a first-class highlight and absolutely worth the effort.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls in Herisau?
Beyond waterfall exploration, the Herisau region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB Trails, challenging Mountain Hikes, and scenic Road Cycling Routes, providing options for all types of adventurers.
What should I wear for waterfall hiking in the Herisau area?
For trails like the one leading to Höchfall 🤩, good fitness and sturdy footwear are essential due to steep and potentially slippery paths. Even on easier trails, comfortable hiking shoes with good grip are recommended, especially as paths near waterfalls can be damp.
What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls around Herisau?
Visitors frequently praise the wild and romantic scenery, the refreshing atmosphere, and the unique features like the covered wooden walkway in the Wissbach Gorge. The impressive natural formations, such as the Brudertobel Cave with Waterfall, are also highly appreciated for their visual impact.
Are there any waterfalls that are less known but still worth visiting?
While not as widely known as some others, the Mühletöbeli Gorge Waterfall offers a nice short trail with a great waterfall, providing a shady and cooling experience. The Waterfalls on the way from Petersalp towards Guggeien, though on a less remarkable path, become special with enough water, revealing impressive cascades.
Can I find places to rest or have a picnic near the waterfalls?
Yes, particularly in the Wissbach Gorge, there are numerous barbecue and rest stops located right along the river. This makes it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings, especially for families.
Most popular routes around Herisau
Most popular attractions around Herisau
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Herisau:
