24.09.29
The Rugghuble Round Tour – Trail Running
Brunnihütte – Rugghubelhütte – Bannalp – Wallenpfad – Brunnihütte
This 23 km trail running loop is a true alpine adventure. You can start directly from Brunnihütte or, if you’re looking for a bigger mission, add the climb from Engelberg village. The route is also a great challenge for hikers. Hiking takes around 7–8 hours plus breaks, while trail runners will vary depending on fitness level and pace.
The best season is late summer and autumn, once the snow has melted but before winter sets in, typically June to October, depending on snow conditions.
The Approach
Take the Brunni Bahn from Engelberg village up to Ristis, then the chairlift to Brunnihütte. Tickets are available at the Brunni valley station. If you want the full challenge, skip the lifts and run straight from the village, adding about 900 m of extra elevation gain.
Stage 1 – Brunnihütte to Rugghubelhütte (2296 m)
Fill your water bottle at Härzlisee before you start climbing. The first stretch to Rugghubelhütte gives you a solid warm-up with 430 m of elevation gain (1176 m if starting from Engelberg village). At Rugghubel, you can enjoy a rösti lunch or just a quick water break before continuing.
Stage 2 – Rugghubelhütte to the Pass (2549 m)
From the hut, head up towards Engelberger Rotstock and the pass just below the summit (2549 m). Here you’ll get your first glimpse of the wild landscapes beyond the Engelberg peaks. It’s a perfect snack stop. The trail here is rocky and technical, shaped by the glacier that once filled this valley. Watch your step!
Stage 3 – The Backside to Bannalp
From the pass, the trail drops steadily (327 m) along the backside of Ruchstock and Hassenstock. The descent is a welcome relief before a short climb up to Bannalp Pass Schoneggeli (2249 m). From here, the views open over Bannalpsee – a little alpine oasis.
You’ll then descend 555 m down to Urnerstaffel, where you can refill water. If you’re tempted, take the short detour to Bannalpsee for a refreshing dip or a rösti at Bannalp Berghaus. (This adds an extra 100 m of elevation gain and loss to your day.)
Stage 4 – Bannalp to Walegg (1670 m)
From Urnerstaffel, the trail climbs again, passing Alphütte Oberfeld and wrapping around Bannalpsee on the higher left-hand side. Once you round the corner towards Walegg, the views are breathtaking: Bannalpsee below, Luzern in the distance, and the route you just covered on the far side of the valley.
This is the perfect selfie spot – but beware, it’s also one of the airier sections of the trail, so take care if you’re not a fan of heights.
Stage 5 – Walenpfad to Brunnihütte (1859 m)
From Walegg, Engelberg’s home peaks start to come into view, though you won’t see Titlis just yet. A short descent of 290 m might trick you into thinking the hardest part is over – but don’t underestimate the final stretch.
The Wallenpfad switchbacks will test your legs one last time with 204 m of elevation gain. Luckily, this is one of the most beautiful sections, winding through old forests, grassy plains, and cow pastures.
Back at Brunnihütte, reward yourself with a dip in Härzlisee. From here, either take the lift down – or if you still have energy, finish strong with a run back to the village.
Preparations
- Start the day with a solid breakfast (Preferably at Ski Lodge)
- Add electrolytes to your water bottle early
- Always check the weather before heading out – the mountains can change quickly!
- Bring a Friend
What to Pack
- At least 1.5 liters of water
- Weather-appropriate clothing (always bring a wind jacket)
- Running/hiking poles – very useful for the climbs
- Snacks: dried fruit, bars, chocolate, nuts, sausage, crisps – if your backpack isn’t 50% snacks, you’re doing it wrong!
- First aid kit (always in the mountains)
- Sunscreen – at altitude, the sun is unforgiving!
Usefull Links
SAC Rout Portal for planning and info: https://www.sac-cas.ch/en/huts-and-tours/sac-route-portal/
Weather: https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather/week/engelberg_switzerland_2660902
Book a stay with us at Ski Lodge Engelberg: https://skilodgeengelberg.com/booking-packages/
See you on the trails!
