The best city hikes and walks in Appenzell Ausserrhoden

Appenzell Ausserrhoden offers nearly 200 urban hiking trails. The vast majority, over 150, are rated as easy, making them accessible for most hikers. There are also around 40 moderate routes and a few more challenging options for those seeking a greater adventure.

The urban hiking trails in Appenzell Ausserrhoden are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 4,600 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's picturesque landscapes, the blend of town and nature, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable strolls.

Yes, Appenzell Ausserrhoden has many easy urban loops perfect for families and beginners. An excellent option is the Hiking loop from St. Margrethen SG, which is just over 4 km long and features minimal elevation gain. Another gentle choice is the St. Gallen Main Railway Station loop from St. Gallen Haggen, offering a pleasant 6.6 km walk.

Even on urban hikes, you'll encounter the charming natural beauty of Appenzell Ausserrhoden. The region is characterized by rolling hills, lush green valleys, and picturesque rivers. While the dramatic Alpstein massif is further afield, many urban routes offer glimpses of the surrounding foothills and access to local green spaces and smaller bodies of water like Gäbrisseeli or Gübsensee East.

Absolutely. Many urban trails in Appenzell Ausserrhoden provide lovely views and pass by local landmarks. For instance, the Rorschach Harbor – Kornhaus, Rorschach loop from Sandbüchel offers scenic views along Lake Constance. While the highest peaks like Säntis Summit are typically reached via more alpine routes, you can often enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding hilly landscape from elevated points within the towns.

Many starting points for urban hiking trails in Appenzell Ausserrhoden are easily accessible via public transport. The region has a well-developed network of trains and buses, making it convenient to reach trailheads without a car. For example, the St. Gallen Main Railway Station loop starts directly from a major transport hub.

Yes, Appenzell Ausserrhoden's urban hikes often weave through areas rich in cultural heritage. You might pass traditional Appenzeller farmhouses, historic village centers, or local chapels. The Kobel Chapel Berneck – Schlifisteg Steps in Berneck loop from Au SG is a moderate route that includes a notable chapel, offering a glimpse into the region's history and architecture.

Urban hikes in Appenzell Ausserrhoden vary in length, but many are designed for a pleasant half-day outing. You'll find routes ranging from 4 km to over 8 km. For example, the Bildweiher – Kybunpark Stadium loop from kybunpark is about 7.2 km and takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, while shorter options can be completed in just over an hour.

Yes, the majority of urban hiking trails in Appenzell Ausserrhoden are circular routes. This design allows for convenient exploration, bringing you back to your starting point without needing to retrace your steps. All the routes highlighted in this guide, such as the St. Gallen Main Railway Station loop and the Rorschach Harbor – Kornhaus, Rorschach loop, are circular.

While urban trails generally stay within the lower, rolling hills, some routes on the fringes of towns or from slightly elevated positions may offer distant views of the majestic Alpstein massif, especially on clear days. The Alpstein, with prominent peaks like Säntis and Girenspitz, forms a dramatic backdrop to the region's landscape.