Leist: Fürenalp–Rugghubelhütte

A wild connection via Wissberg, the Rotbandleiter trail, and a winding karst area to the Rugghubelhütte hut.

Difficulty: T4+
Time required: approx. 5–7 hours
Distance: 9 km
Ascent: 1’320 km
Descent: 870 hm
Highest point: 2’627 m
Starting point: Bergstation Fürenalp
Season: July – September

From the Engelberg Valley Hiking Guide

Moonscape!

The first 800 m lead up to the Wissberg on the Alpine hiking trail. From there, the adventure begins! Attention, if there is still snow, it can become very tricky. From the scree, it is easy to descend to the Rotbandleiter. Those who are afraid of heights should better turn around at Wissberg, as the ladder goes up about 25 m vertically. It can be secured with a climbing aid set.

Once the ascent has been completed, the route leads through a barren lunar landscape to the Rugghubelhütte. It takes a good sense of direction to find the best way to reach the hut. There are only trail markings and, in some places, blue markings.

Step by step

Route description

From the Fürenalp to the Wissberg

The first approximately 800 meters of elevation gain to Wissberg are covered via the Alpine hiking trail.

Fall to the red tape

After some rubble and some faint tracks, it is easy to descend towards the entrance of the ladder.

Red tape leader

The approximately 25-meter-high, almost vertical ladder forms the key point. A safety device with a climbing wall set is possible.

Gone without a trace over the Leist

After the head guide, the route is partly unmarked and only occasionally marked in blue by the karst landscape.

Through the Griesstal

With good navigation, you can find the way to the Rugghubelhütte.

Full map Leist: Furrenalp–Rugghubelhütte with marked route and waypoints — Fully compiled map from the Engelberg Valley hiking guide. Click to enlarge.

Appreciate realistically

Requirements

Very good grip on the trail and alpine experience
No dizziness on the 25 m high ladder
Very good orientation ability in untraveled terrain
Dry, snow-free conditions
Climbing route set according to personal safety needs

Good to know

Information about the tour

With remaining snow, the route is significantly more treacherous and not recommended.
Anyone unsure about the red tape is turning back at Wissberg.
An overnight stay in the Rugghubelhütte is a great fit for this long tour.

Important: Times, difficulties, and road conditions may change. Check current weather, train, hut, and trail information before starting.

Further goals