High above Lake Lucerne, the Stockhütte and Klewenalp offer one of the most diverse excursion areas in Central Switzerland. Whether a leisurely family hike, a thrilling bikeboard descent, winter fun in the snow, or legendary discoveries – the mountain landscape between Emmetten and Beckenried offers unforgettable experiences in every season.
Take the gondola into the mountains
Even the gondola ride from Emmetten to Stockhütte is an experience. As the view opens up further and further across Lake Lucerne, the peaks of Brisen, Schwalmis, and Risetenstock draw closer. Stockhütte is located in the heart of the popular Klewenalp-Stockhütte area, which stretches across expansive alpine pastures and sunny mountain terraces.
Klewenalp itself is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,600 meters above Beckenried. The area has been used as alpine pastureland for centuries. Even today, numerous livestock farms spend the summer here. The expansive meadows, surrounded by the striking mountain ranges of the Schwalmis and the Klewenstock, characterize the landscape.
Games, fun and panoramic views
Families especially will find plenty to enjoy at Stockhütte. Large playgrounds right by the mountain station invite children to climb, slide, and explore. The popular treetop walkway leads through the treetops, offering fantastic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere will find numerous fire pits along the hiking trails. While the children play, the adults can enjoy the impressive panorama of Central Switzerland.
Hiking among flowers and mountain peaks
The region offers hikes for every taste. The Alpine Flower Trail on the Klewenalp is particularly popular. In early summer, numerous flower species transform the meadows into a colorful natural paradise.
More athletic hikers are drawn to the Brisen or the Hinter Jochli pass towards Uri. The Musenalp and the Brisenhaus are also popular hiking destinations. Those who prefer a more tranquil experience can enjoy the panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps along the scenic trails.
The entire area is also part of the nationally important protected landscape area surrounding Lake Lucerne. Numerous dry meadows and alpine pastures are protected nature reserves and offer a valuable habitat for rare plants and animals.
Action on two wheels
It's not just hikers who will find something to enjoy. The Stockhütte has also made a name for itself among mountain bikers in recent years. Various trails wind through the mountain landscape. The bikeboard descents, where you can speed downhill on all-terrain wheeled devices, are particularly popular.
Those with more time can even spend the night in the middle of nature and experience the tranquility of the mountains.
Winter magic between Emmetten and Beckenried
As soon as the first snow falls, the area transforms into a family-friendly winter sports paradise. The Klewenalp-Stockhütte ski area boasts numerous lifts and slopes reaching altitudes of around 2,000 meters.
Even non-skiers will find plenty to enjoy. Sledding runs, winter hiking trails, and snowshoe routes wind through the snow-covered mountain landscape. Magic carpets and practice areas are available for children, making it easier to get started with winter sports.
The Legend of the Witch's Stone
Anyone traveling from Emmetten towards Stockhütte will not only pass through an impressive natural landscape, but also through a legendary area.
Deep in the Kohltal valley lies the mysterious Hexenstein (Witches' Stone). Legend has it that the mighty boulder was originally located high up on the Oberbauen alpine pasture. Witches lived there in caves and rocks. When the inhabitants of Emmetten built a chapel dedicated to the Holy Cross down in the valley and its bell rang daily for prayer, the witches felt their peace disturbed.
In their anger, they decided to destroy the chapel. An old witch loaded a huge boulder onto her shoulders and carried it down the valley. At the Küpfitürli pass, she is even said to have made a tremendous leap over a cliff face. Indentations in the rock are supposedly still visible today, bearing her footprints.
When the witch finally reached the Kohltal valley with her burden, the chapel's Ave bell rang. Instantly, she lost her magic. The heavy stone pressed her to the ground, binding her forever beneath the boulder. The Witch's Stone has lain in the same spot ever since. Some even claim to hear a faint groan rising from its depths.
A mountain region for all seasons
Stockhütte and Klewenalp uniquely combine nature, adventure, and tradition. Families will find a variety of play and activity options, hikers will discover scenic trails, and winter sports enthusiasts will enjoy perfectly groomed slopes. Add to that ancient legends that lend the landscape a mysterious charm.
Anyone who wants to experience Central Switzerland at its most beautiful will find a destination between Emmetten, Beckenried and Lake Lucerne that is sure to delight in every season.
