- Route: 3 Alpenpanorama-Weg Etappe 13 Wolhusen – Napf
- Region: Morgarten (Canton Bern)
- Theme: Historical Hikes
- Distance: 17 km
- Duration: 5.8 h
- Ascent: 1262 m
- Difficulty (SAC scale): T1
- Terrain: Wanderland-Route 3 · nationales Netz · SAC T1
- Attractions along the route: Napf, Gitzichnubel
- Legend: The Dwarves in the Tree
Experience this scenic historic sites hike along the 3 Alpenpanorama-Weg Etappe 13 Wolhusen – Napf, connecting the legend of The Dwarves in the Tree in the Canton of Bern across 17 km, T1 difficulty, and 5.8 hours of hiking.
Journey Through Historic Landscapes
Your journey begins in the charming valley town of Wolhusen, easily accessible by regional train connections. As you step out, the crisp Swiss air sets the tone for a memorable trek. The route immediately introduces you to the rich cultural tapestry of the region, guiding you gently upward through rolling foothills and lush meadows. Navigating this national hiking route is a straightforward pleasure, keeping you immersed in the tranquil countryside.
As you progress along the 17-kilometer stretch, the path demands a steady pace rather than technical mountaineering skills, perfectly aligned with its SAC T1 rating. Over the course of approximately 5.8 hours, you will ascend gently toward the breathtaking heights of the Napf region. The terrain varies from well-maintained forest paths to pastoral tracks, offering a diverse visual feast with every step you take.
Families considering this trek will find it manageable for older children and teenagers who enjoy endurance hiking, though the significant length means proper preparation is essential. Along the way, the landscape unveils remarkable touristenattraktionen. You will pass the prominent peak of Gitzichnubel, which offers wonderful vantage points for a well-deserved rest. Further along, the iconic natural=peak of Napf awaits, rewarding your sustained effort with panoramic views that stretch across the Swiss midlands toward the distant Alps.
The Legend of The Dwarves in the Tree
Local folklore adds a magical dimension to the breathtaking vistas around Morgarten. According to ancient tales, hidden folk once inhabited the dense forests of this region, choosing ancient hollow trees as their secret dwellings. These mystical guardians of the woodland were known to observe travelers passing through, occasionally offering subtle guidance to those with pure intentions while remaining entirely invisible to the hurried or boastful wanderer.
The story of The Dwarves in the Tree remains deeply woven into the local identity of Morgarten. Generations have shared whispered accounts of these diminutive woodland beings who protected the flora and fauna from disruption. As you hike through the quiet shaded sections of the trail, the atmospheric rustling of the leaves and the secluded majesty of the old-growth trees might just make you feel as though unseen eyes are watching your passage, keeping the ancient myths vividly alive.
Find all the details on this route, including the map, on the route page for 3 Alpenpanorama-Weg Etappe 13 Wolhusen – Napf.
You can read the full legend “The Dwarves in the Tree” here: The Dwarves in the Tree.
Experience this hike with a GPS audio guide and the matching legend right in the app: Legends & Stories, Navigation & Offline Maps.
Photo: Quirin Schmid / Pexels
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour take?
The tour takes approximately 5.8 hours over a distance of 17 km with a SAC T1 difficulty rating.
Is the tour suitable for children?
No, because the 17-kilometer distance and 5.8-hour duration are too demanding for younger children.
How do I get to the starting point?
You can reach the starting point in Wolhusen easily by car or by taking the regional train to Wolhusen railway station.
What legend is associated with the route?
Along the route, you can hear the fascinating local legend known as The Dwarves in the Tree.
