Introduction
Elm Riesenwald (aka Giant Forest) is a recreational area in Eastern Switzerland, the Glarus Sud region. Children of all ages will have the best of time spent here in nature, with many activities, such as lots of trampolines, scooter runs and the Giant Forest hiking trail filled with obstacles, an inverted house on the route (see pictures below), a suspension bridge and many more. There are also lots of picnic areas along Riesenwald and you can spend there as much time as you want. Everything is accompanied by wonderful landscapes of the surrounding mountains. On the Elm website you can find more details about all the activities, below is a summary of our experience.
Here are the summary hike details:
- Start / end location: Ämpächli Restaurant
- Ascent/ descent: 94 m (308 feet)
- Distance: 2.6 km (1.61 miles)
- Duration: 1 hour (excepting play times and breaks)
- Technical and physical requirements: Very easy
- Season: June – October
Getting to Elm Riesenwald
- Car parking (free) or bus station is located in Elm village (direct Google Maps link), next to Elm Talstation
- From here you will take the gondola up to Ämpächli Restaurant were the fun starts (one ticket both ways in 2023 costs CHF 19 for adults, here you can find all prices)
- You can start the hike in both directions (at the end of the post you can find our direct Strava route that you can load on your phone or watch)
Conclusion
The Elm Giant Forest Trail is a great family activity that invites you to connect to nature with your family, in the beauty of the outdoors. If you are simply seeking a peaceful escape, this trail offers a wonderful journey.
