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Eastern Switzerland
Appenzell Ausserrhoden

Hinterland

Top 15 Natural Monuments in Hinterland

Natural monuments in Hinterland encompass a variety of natural landscapes, often characterized by their rural and less developed nature. These regions typically feature mountains, extensive forests, and significant water bodies like rivers and waterfalls. The geographical makeup of Hinterland areas provides diverse ecosystems and geological formations. Visitors can explore a range of natural features, from dramatic peaks to serene woodlands and impressive rock formations.

Best natural monuments in Hinterland

  • The most popular natural monuments is Beautiful trail along the rocks, a trail that offers a scenic path along a rock face. This location is noted for its photo opportunities and ease of walking, often shaded by forest.
  • Another must-see spot is Säntis Summit (2,502 m), a summit that is the highest mountain in the Alpstein Mountains. From the summit, visitors can experience panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
  • Visitors also love Spitzli, a challenging summit. This peak offers rewarding views after a steep ascent, with sections requiring sure-footedness and featuring safety ropes.
  • Hinterland is known for its summits, waterfalls, and scenic trails. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from high mountain peaks to impressive water features and unique rock formations.
  • The natural monuments in Hinterland are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 1000 upvotes and nearly 1000 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: June 25, 2026

Girenspitz

Highlight • Summit

The Girenspitz is the small peak next to the Säntis. At the signpost (bifurcation) with the direction Säntis, Tierwies and Höchnideri you can easily hike up to the Girenspitz. The path is not too difficult and leads over a certain underground with rocky parts up to the summit. The view up there is remarkable and beautiful and above all so much quieter than on the Säntis .... a real treat up here :-)!

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Spitzli

Highlight • Summit

Even though Spitzli sounds very cute, the little Spitz is actually pointed (steep). But the path there is very beautiful and so is the view up there.
The Spitzli (1520 m) is located next to the Hoch Petersalp (1589 m).

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Waterfalls

Highlight • Waterfall

On the way from Petersalp towards Guggeien, there are several small waterfalls to admire, provided there is enough water, and the splashing is wonderful. The path itself is not really something special, but these waterfalls make it something special.

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Säntis Erlebniswelt Exhibition

Highlight • Monument

Very nicely done and informative. A lot of emphasis is placed on the presentation of how the mountain range was formed. Very clean and spacious rooms.

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Large waterfall

Highlight • Waterfall

Multi-level, easily visible and accessible waterfall. Coming from above, this is the first waterfall on the Wasserfallweg

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Rose Garden Herisau

Highlight • Natural Monument

The rose garden in Herisau is a place of relaxation and meeting. The small park is part of the culture trail with a total of 30 stations, which also provides interesting information about the history of the garden, such as the fact that it has existed since the 17th century. The Steinegg Foundation has owned the rose garden since 2004 and made it accessible to the public.

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Waterfall

Highlight • Waterfall

Grossdürrenbach Waterfall, Grossdürren, AR in Urnäsch

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Natural Bridge (Old Weir)

Highlight • Natural Monument

From Zweibruggen (in Sittertobel) a beautiful narrow forest path leads to this natural bridge. At the beginning of the path is a warning sign: Enter the caves at your own risk! You do not have to go to the caves, but there is the beginning of this little path that leads to a dead end. The path leads to the natural bridge, a ledge that leads over the sitter. This small spot is a very idyllic place and invites you to linger, enjoy, pause and marvel.

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The rock face is a great photo opportunity and the path is very beautiful and easy to walk.

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On the themed trail you will learn a lot of exciting things about the impressive Säntis massif and how it was formed over 140 million years. The short circular trail is dedicated to the rock formations layer by layer.

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Tips from the Community

Andi H 🏃‍♂️🚴🛌
November 7, 2025, Girenspitz

The second highest peak of the Alpstein massif

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very pretty here, very pretty

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On the themed trail you will learn a lot of exciting things about the impressive Säntis massif and how it was formed over 140 million years. The short circular trail is dedicated to the rock formations layer by layer.

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Suddenly the rock appears. The path is easy to walk on. Simply beautiful

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cello_bello
December 26, 2024, Girenspitz

very pretty here, very pretty

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You can find numerous details about the mineral exhibition here: https://kristalle.ch/sammlung/Slides_Ausstellung_Saentis.asp

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awesome!

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Impressive to walk under the rock massif...

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of natural monuments can I explore in Hinterland?

Hinterland is characterized by diverse natural landscapes, including impressive summits like Säntis Summit (2,502 m) and Spitzli, as well as numerous waterfalls and scenic trails. You'll find extensive forests, unique rock formations, and significant water features throughout the region.

Are there family-friendly natural monuments in Hinterland?

Yes, Hinterland offers several natural monuments suitable for families. The Beautiful trail along the rocks is noted for being easy to walk and often shaded by forest, making it pleasant for all ages. The Waterfall near Grossdürrenbach is also family-friendly, offering a short detour to clear waters. Additionally, the Säntis Erlebniswelt Exhibition combines natural beauty with an engaging, family-friendly experience.

What are the most popular natural monuments in Hinterland?

Among the most popular natural monuments, the Beautiful trail along the rocks stands out for its scenic path and photo opportunities. The Säntis Summit (2,502 m) is also highly regarded for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

What kind of views can I expect from the summits in Hinterland?

From summits like Säntis Summit (2,502 m), you can expect grandiose all-round views, including the Alpstein Mountains, Appenzellerland, Lake Lucerne, and Lake Constance. The challenging ascent to Spitzli also rewards visitors with beautiful vistas after navigating its steep sections.

Are there challenging natural monuments for experienced hikers?

Absolutely. For experienced hikers, the ascent to Spitzli is a challenging climb with steep sections and requires sure-footedness, though safety ropes are provided in key areas. The Natural Bridge (Old Weir) also presents a challenging route, often involving river crossings.

What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?

Hinterland offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, including easy hikes and waterfall hikes. For cyclists, there are also many road cycling routes that explore the region's scenic landscapes.

Can I see waterfalls in Hinterland?

Yes, Hinterland is home to several beautiful waterfalls. You can find multiple Waterfalls on the way from Petersalp towards Guggeien, which are particularly impressive after rainfall. There's also a notable Large waterfall and the Grossdürrenbach Waterfall, which is easily accessible and worth a short detour.

What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in Hinterland?

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from the summits, the tranquility of the forests, and the beauty of the waterfalls. Many appreciate the diverse hiking opportunities, from easy, shaded paths like the Beautiful trail along the rocks to more challenging mountain ascents.

Is there a way to reach Säntis Summit without a strenuous hike?

Yes, you can reach the Säntis Summit (2,502 m) via a cable car from Schwägalp, making it accessible for those who prefer not to hike the entire way. Even in June, you might find snow and icy temperatures at the top, so be prepared.

Are there any natural monuments that also have historical significance?

While primarily natural, some sites in Hinterland blend natural beauty with historical context. The Säntis Erlebniswelt Exhibition, located near the summit, offers insights into the region's history and natural environment, making it a point of interest for those seeking both.

What are the geological features of Hinterland's natural monuments?

The natural monuments in Hinterland often feature limestone and marl formations, particularly evident in the Alpstein Mountains where Säntis Summit (2,502 m) is located. You can also find unique Nagelfluh rock faces, such as those along the Beautiful trail along the rocks.

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Didn’t find what you were looking for?

Find even more amazing natural monuments in Hinterland by checking out the top Highlights region by region:

WaldstattStein (AR)SchönengrundSchwellbrunnUrnäschHerisau

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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones in Hinterland:

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