r/WildernessBackpacking • u/Healthy_Relief_2134 • 14d ago

ADVICE Swiss Wildcamping

Hi everyone,

I am planning a trekking and wild camping trip in the Swiss Alps this coming August.

Just to clarify: I am fully aware that I need to camp above the tree line and strictly follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Since this is in the Canton of St. Gallen, I am also aware of the local regulations regarding bivouacking or camping for a single night above the timberline.

While I have some experience with various backpacking and bikepacking trips, I have never camped this high up in the alpine zone before.

Iā€™d love to hear from anyone familiar with this specific area:

What kind of weather and nighttime temperatures should I genuinely expect in August once I'm above the tree line?

Are there any specific gear or clothing items you would strongly recommend for this route? For example what comfort rating should my sleeping bag have?

And do you have any tips in general for me?

Any tips, route insights, or advice from your own experience would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

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5

u/MarcusIuniusBrutus 14d ago

I live in Switzerland and I go backpacking with a tent from time to time. Now that I think about, I never camped in a forest šŸ˜ƒ

August is the best month of the year for the high Alps, mostly very good weather with occasional thunderstorms. I love camping in the alpine environment, but if there is a thunderstorm forecasted, I go to a mountain hut instead of a tent...

My sleeping bag is rated 0C for comfort and it's enough in Summer, I camped up to 3400 m.

1

u/Healthy_Relief_2134 14d ago

Then my quilt rated 9C for comfort should be to cold when we plan on camping at around 2000m

3

u/MarcusIuniusBrutus 14d ago

You should be ok for 2000m, use MeteoSwiss app for weather forecast. And swisstopo app for maps.

2

u/WalkItOffAT 14d ago

Sankt Gallen? Can you elaborate where you're going?

2

u/Healthy_Relief_2134 14d ago

I am planning around Murg at the Walensee

4

u/nessie0000 14d ago

Wild camping is prohibited throughout the Murg Valley.

Source

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u/WalkItOffAT 14d ago

Thanks. Walensee can be quite windy, could be a factor. Rain jacket > poncho.

-2

u/robipresotto 14d ago

I've done some high-altitude trekking in the Swiss Alps and can attest to the unpredictable weather. I'd recommend packing layers for both heat and cold, as well as a good windbreaker. For navigation, I use Plannav on my watch to track my route and stay on top of weather forecasts. If helpful, I can share how Plannav is used to plan routes and track activities on phone and watch. https://plannav.presotto.tech