Season and lift times for the Stoos ridge hike
The full ridge hike is possible daily from mid-June to mid-October, as long as the Klingenstock chairlift is running. Outside that period the classic traverse with the help of the lifts is not an option. Even then, however, parts of Stoos remain accessible. This article sets out what is possible at which time of year.
Why the hike depends on three lifts
The usual route uses the Stoosbahn, which runs all year, the Klingenstock chairlift up to the start and the Fronalpstock chairlifts down from the finish. The decisive one is the lift to the Klingenstock, because it only operates in the summer season. When it stands still, the whole traverse with lift support is impossible.
The season at a glance
| Period | What is possible |
|---|---|
| Mid-June to mid-October | Everything: the full ridge hike Klingenstock → Fronalpstock with both chairlifts |
| Late May to mid-June | The Fronalpstock side is usually open (viewpoint, panorama circuit). There are often old snowfields left on the ridge. Anyone in good shape can walk up to the Klingenstock, provided the path is clear. Check conditions beforehand. |
| Mid-Oct. to early Nov. | The lift to the Fronalpstock usually runs longer than the one to the Klingenstock. You can only reach the ridge on foot, and only if the weather allows. |
| Winter (Dec.–April) | The ridge trail is closed. There is skiing on both mountains; more on that in post Stoos in winter. The viewpoint on the Fronalpstock is reachable by lift. |
On foot without the lifts: the big round from Stoos over both summits (about 13 km, around 1,050 m of ascent, about 5 h) is possible as soon as the path is free of snow and open, as a rule from June to October. What counts is the state of the path, not the date.
How to check conditions before you travel
- Status of the installations: the Stoosbahnen continuously publish the operating status of every lift. The decisive one is the chairlift to the Klingenstock.
- Weather: the ridge is completely exposed to wind and weather. Our altitude-corrected forecasts show what conditions you will actually meet up on the crest. You will find them on the weather page for Stoos, the Wetterseite Klingenstock and the Wetterseite Fronalpstock.
- Webcams: the images from the summit cameras show you in a few seconds whether there is still snow up there.
- In the shoulder season: in June and October, ice on the shaded northern flanks in the morning is normal, even when the day turns warm. It is therefore better to start in the late morning than on the first lift.
Choosing the right time
- On the first chairlift you are a full hour ahead of the main rush. On summer weekends it is busiest around midday.
- The last lifts in the afternoon set a firm time frame. Allow 2 hours of walking plus breaks and set off onto the ridge early enough. If you want lunch on the Fronalpstock, start earlier still.
- September is particularly popular with locals. The weather is settled, the air is clear and there is less going on, while the lifts are still in full operation.
FAQ
Is the Stoos ridge hike open right now?
In the summer season it is possible daily as long as the lifts are running. Outside that period only the walking variants remain, and they too only work if the path is free of snow. Check the current status of the installations and our weather pages before you travel.
Is the ridge hike possible in May or November?
The classic traverse is usually not possible then, because the lift to the Klingenstock is closed and old snow often blocks the crest. A reliable alternative is the viewpoint on the Fronalpstock.
When does the last lift go down to the valley?
The last lift runs in the late afternoon. Check the exact time on the day of your trip and set off onto the ridge early enough.
Can I do the hike in bad weather?
In a storm the lifts may suspend operations. On the open ridge you should not be out in wind, rain or fog in any case. On uncertain days, choose the panorama circuit on the Fronalpstock instead of the crest.
