Mürtschenstock
Mountain Glarus massif known for steep limestone faces
Limestone ridge above the Walensee in Glarus with exposed cliffs and marked Alpine trails; attracts climbers and hikers seeking ridge walks and lake panoramas.
The Mürtschenstock is a limestone massif in the Glarus Alps in Canton Glarus, Switzerland, forming a steep ridge above the Walensee. Its highest point, Gross Mürtschen, reaches 2,441 metres.
The massif offers steep cliffs and rocky ridges popular with experienced hikers and climbers. Trails and alpine routes approach the massif from the Walensee side and nearby valleys, offering panoramic views over the lake and surrounding Alps.
The Mürtschenstock has long been part of regional alpine pastoral and mountaineering activity; its rock faces and ridges have been used for climbing since the development of alpinism in the region.
The massif rises above the northern shore of the Walensee in eastern Switzerland, within Canton Glarus, and is approached from villages and trailheads around the lake and adjacent valleys.
- Prominent ridge: The massif overlooks the Walensee and forms a prominent limestone ridge in the Glarus Alps, visible from the lake shoreline.
- Height: Main summit reaches 2,441 metres, making it a notable local high point for alpine hiking and climbing.
What to See #
- Gross Mürtschen (summit): The highest summit of the massif, Gross Mürtschen, rises to 2,441 metres and is the main objective for hikers and climbers on the range.
How to Get to Mürtschenstock #
From the towns along the Walensee (e.g., Weesen or Murg), local roads and marked hiking trails lead up into the Mürtschenstock area. Regional bus services connect to trailheads; consult SwissTopo or local alpine club guides for specific routes.
Tips for Visiting Mürtschenstock #
- Approach from the north ridge for the classic scramble; check local guide reports for recent rockfall.
- The Walensee valley below makes for an excellent post-climb recovery - cafés in Weesen are a short drive away.
- Winter ascents require alpine gear and avalanche awareness.
Best Time to Visit Mürtschenstock #
Summer months give the best access for non-technical routes; seasons shorten with elevation.
Weather & Climate near Mürtschenstock #
Mürtschenstock's climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with cold summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -8°C to 12°C. Heavy rainfall (2141 mm/year), wettest in July, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -7°C. Significant rainfall (160 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of -2°C and lows of -8°C. Significant rainfall (142 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -7°C. Significant rainfall (157 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -4°C. Significant rainfall (175 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (169 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. Heavy rain (204 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 6°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (226 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 6°C. Heavy rain (210 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (183 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (165 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -4°C. Significant rainfall (176 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -6°C. Significant rainfall (174 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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