A walk through the Wissbach Gorge is both a fascinating and relaxing experience. The gorge, which is very deep in places, radiates grace and beauty and is a true jewel of tranquility. The enchanting nature invites you to dream and reflect.
If you start the hike on the Flawiler Egg, it is only a short walk to the first highlight of this special nature experience. The view from the romantic Schwänberg Bridge, which lies about 25 meters above the Wissbach Gorge, is already a first highlight. This bridge marks the formerly important route from St. Gallen via Herisau to the Flawiler Egg. The picturesque river landscape then invites you to a two to three hour walk, depending on how long you want to spend on the way. You walk through a beautiful forest area down into the Wissbach Gorge, past a reservoir where you can observe ducks and many other animals. On warm summer days, families with children like to frolic in the shady spots and by the cool water.
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There are also fire pits at various points along the trail, where there are usually lots of stacks of wood ready for a cozy campfire. Then you finally go into the "canyon". Here the water plunges into the depths. An impressive waterfall illustrates the power of nature. The water even flows through a pressure pipe into a hydroelectric power station.
A hike through the Wissbach Gorge is an unforgettable experience, both for families with children and for amateur researchers interested in nature. The Wissbach Gorge also offers a wealth of interesting geological and zoological information. There are many outcrops where the layers of earth's history lie on top of each other. The "canyon" was formed around 10,000 years ago and today offers refuge and habitat for numerous endangered plant and animal species. Kingfishers, wood warblers, tawny owls, long-eared owls, fire salamanders - they all find a safe home here.
Access
A beautiful hike leads from Degersheim to Gossau and passes the Wissbach Gorge.
