Kyle FrostExplorer

The hike to Rugghubelhütte can begin either in Engelberg, or as described here, at the top of the Brunni (or Ristis) cable car. It just depends how much elevation you want to hike. From the top of Brunni, the trail meanders along the mountainside for a while before starting to climb more sharply. The views of Engelberg below are spectacular. You'll be able to see the hut above you from a ways o...

I did this loop as a wonderful trail run, although it would also be possible to hike it in a long day, or split it up with a stay at Kaltenberghutte or Konstanzerhutte (book ahead). Starting at St Cristoph (a short bus from the center of St Anton), the trail climbs sharply before leveling out and traversing around the mountainside. Another steeper section will bring you to the stunning Kaltenb...

From Engelberg, head towards Eugenisee and then wind through houses on the edge of town before starting the ascent to Ober Zingel. You'll have great views of the valley, and steep climbing. At Ober Zingel you can stop for a snack, or continue upwards to Lutersee. From here, you'll continue hiking upwards along steep mountainsides and grassy ridgelines, watch your step! When you reach the pass, ...

After picking up your required overnight permit, start your morning with a coffee in Aspen, then drive out 15 min to the trailhead at the end of Conundrum Creek road. The trail is a straight shot 9 miles up the valley, through expansive meadows and an always incredible view of the mountains and aspens that cover the slopes. There are 16 campsites in the area of the hot springs, varying in pro...

Start at the Long Lake trailhead in the Brainard Lake Recreation area (there's a fee to park, if you don't have a pass). Take the trail towards Lake Isabelle for a few miles, winding through forest and past Long Lake. Signage towards Lake Isabelle and Pawnee Pass is apparent. Just as you reach Lake Isabelle, look for a junction that heads to the right and uphill to Pawnee Pass. You'll quickly...

This is a steep but short hike to see some beautiful terraces and granaries across from the main Ollantaytambo fortress. Depending on your level of fitness, the climb can take between 30 minutes to an hour. It'swell worth it for the spectacular views of Ollantaytambo town and views of the ruins on the other side of town.

The 4-mile trail climbs around 2500ft from the Longs Peak trailhead and starts by winding through dense forest. In the morning darkness, trudging through thick trees isn’t the most exciting, but when you finally climb out above treeline, the massive profile of Longs and the slowly growing light on the horizon is a welcome sight. Make sure you know your hiking speed and leave early enough to ar...

Trübsee Loop is a nice trail accessible from town that passes by Untertrübsee and stunning Trübsee. Enjoy views of the Engelberg valley and the incredible colors of the lake. While it can be done in either direction, the trail between Engelberg and Berghotel is quite steep, so many people prefer to hike counterclockwise. There are several spots to stop for refreshments, and if you need to save ...