Rappenloch Gorge near Dornbirn
The Rappenloch Gorge near Dornbirn is one of the largest gorges in Central Europe and impresses with steep rock faces, rushing waterfalls, and a well-secured hiking trail. The trail leads over bridges and footbridges through the narrow gorge, where the Dornbirner Ache river roars past deep below. The tour ends at Staufensee – a tranquil contrast to the wildly romantic gorge, behind which the Alplochschlucht begins.
Short info:
- Where is the Rappenloch Gorge? It is located in the Gütle district of Dornbirn in Vorarlberg, not far from the Nativity Scene Museum and the Karren cable car.
- How long does the hike take? You should plan on about 1.5 hours for the round trip, as the route is about 4 kilometers long.
- Do I have to pay an entrance fee? Visiting the gorge is free.
- When is the gorge open? The Rappenloch Gorge is open during the snow-free months, usually from spring to autumn. It remains closed during the winter months for safety reasons.
- How difficult is the path? The hike is considered easy to moderately difficult and is also suitable for families with children who enjoy hiking.
- Can you walk through the gorge with a stroller? No, the path is not suitable for strollers as it includes numerous steps and narrow walkways.
- Are bicycles allowed? Bicycles are not permitted in the gorge. However, bicycle parking is available at the entrance.
- Are dogs allowed? Dogs are allowed on a leash.
- Where can you park? There is a paid parking lot for hikers in the Gütle district. A few free parking spaces are available along the roadside.
- How do you get there by public transport? From Dornbirn train station, bus line 177 goes directly to the Gütle stop, from where it is about a ten-minute walk to the entrance.
Refreshment at the entrance
Right at the beginning of the hike, directly at the parking lot in Gütle, there is the small Rappenloch HutHere you can refuel before or after your hike – simple meals, drinks, coffee, and cake are available. The terrace is idyllically situated in the green surroundings and offers a beautiful view of the Dornbirner Ache river. Especially after the hike, the hut is a cozy place to reflect on the impressions of the gorge.
The path through the Rappenloch Gorge
From the parking lot in Gütle, a short footpath leads to the entrance of the gorge. Even within the first few meters, the power of the Dornbirner Ache River, which has carved its way deep into the rock, is impressive. The path leads safely through the gorge over wooden walkways, bridges, and steps. The passages where the foaming water rushes past beneath you, echoing off the rock walls, are particularly beautiful.
Since a rockslide, the path has been reconstructed in some places. The modern trail offers impressive views of the rock faces and demonstrates how natural forces have carved their way over the years. Along the way, you'll also encounter traces of the old Rappenloch Bridge, which tell a piece of the region's history.
After about an hour, you'll reach Staufensee, where the valley opens up and the landscape appears more tranquil. This is where the Rappenloch Gorge ends – if you'd like, you can take a break at the lake or continue on.
Continue to the Alploch Gorge
We recommend continuing the hike and also visiting the Alplochschlucht The entrance is just a few minutes after the Staufensee. We personally enjoyed the Alplochschlucht I liked it even better: it is narrower, more pristine and is particularly impressive with its dark rock passages and narrow wooden walkways.
A separate listing for Alplochschlucht can also be found on our website.
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