Discover the cunning and quick-witted jokes of Appenzell and let yourself be seduced by the dreamy landscape of the Appenzellerland with a breath-taking view over Lake Constance to southern Germany, the Rhine delta and the Bregenz bay.

The hike starts in Biedermeierdorf Heiden in the village square. It is worth taking the time to explore the village. Between May and October you can climb the church tower in the afternoon, if there is good weather. The climb is worthwhile; you can enjoy a grandiose view over the entire Lake Constance region. The founder of the Red Cross, Henry Dunant, was impressed with Heiden’s unique location of; this was where he spent the last four years of his life. On the first section of the trail you will walk to Wolfhalden. Shortly after leaving the village you can enjoy the clear view of Lake Constance, and in no time at all you will come across the first houses of Wolfhalden.

The hike takes you right through the village of Wolfhalden, passing the small local museum on the way. The next section of the hike is through the shady forest of the Klustobel ravine. On leaving the forest, the path ascends briefly to the «Chisten pass».

The last section of the joke trail takes you towards Walzenhausen, with a constant view of Lake Constance. This village truly holds throne over the Rhine delta and Lake Constance.

Places   Arrival / return travel 

Length8 km

Hiking timeHeiden–Walzenhausen: 2 h 10 min
Walzenhausen–Heiden: 2 h 20 min

 Height differenceHeiden–Walzenhausen: 280 m
Walzenhausen–Heiden: 400 m

 RequirementsGrade: easy
Conditions: easy

Helpful hintsThe joke-hiking trail can also be taken in the reverse direction.

Combine the hike with the activity tour: hike to Walzenhausen and then take the mountain railway to Rheineck. Then take the boat trip to Rorschach and return to Heiden on the mountain railway.

 SignalizationFor hiking, follow the logo indicated on the yellow signposts. Take a printout of our web map on your hike for safety's sake.