Oberblegisee
Glarus
Oberblegisee is a picturesque alpine lake situated at an elevation of approximately 1,422 meters above sea level in the Canton of Glarus, Switzerland. Nestled at the foot of the Glärnisch massif and above the village of Luchsingen, the lake covers an area of about 0.17 square kilometers (15 hectares). It was formed behind a glacial moraine, characteristic of many mountain lakes in the region, and features an underground outflow through loose rock, a phenomenon that remains largely unexplored. The lake is recognized as a nationally important amphibian spawning area, which contributes to its ecological protection status. Visitors can reach Oberblegisee via a relatively gentle hiking trail from Braunwald, taking roughly two and a half hours, or by using a small aerial cableway from Luchsingen to Brunnenberg, with the cableway station located about 330 meters below the lake. Nearby, about two kilometers north and 100 meters higher, lies the Guppenseeli, a smaller pond that often dries up. Oberblegisee offers tranquil natural scenery, making it a favored destination for nature lovers and hikers seeking alpine tranquility.
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Tip: The best time to visit Oberblegisee is during the warmer months when the hiking trails are accessible and the amphibian spawning habitats are active. It is advisable to plan your visit during daylight hours to fully enjoy the surroundings and for safety. Tickets are not required, but hikers should prepare for a moderate mountain hike and consider using the aerial cableway from Luchsingen to reduce ascent effort. Respect the protected status of the area by staying on marked trails and avoiding disturbance to wildlife.
Interesting facts
- •Oberblegisee is located nearly 900 meters above the main valley floor, providing stunning alpine views.
- •The lake has an underground outflow through loose rock formations, a natural feature that remains largely unexplored.
- •It serves as a nationally significant amphibian spawning site, highlighting its ecological importance.
- •Nearby Guppenseeli, a smaller pond, is often dry and lies higher and north of Oberblegisee.
History
Oberblegisee was formed behind a glacial moraine during the last ice age, resulting in its current alpine lake basin.
Historically, the lake has been valued for its ecological importance, particularly as a habitat for amphibians.
Over time, paths and access routes have been developed, including a hiking trail from Braunwald and an aerial cableway from Luchsingen to Brunnenberg, facilitating visitor access while preserving the natural environment.
Its protected status reflects growing environmental awareness and conservation efforts in the region.
Place Guide
Hiking Trail from Braunwald
A scenic and relatively gentle hiking route leading to Oberblegisee, taking approximately two and a half hours, ideal for enjoying alpine flora and fauna along the way.
Aerial Cableway to Brunnenberg
A small cable car that transports visitors from Luchsingen to Brunnenberg, located 330 meters below the lake, reducing the hiking effort required to reach Oberblegisee.
Oberblegisee Lake
The main alpine lake at 1,422 meters elevation, formed behind a glacial moraine, known for its clear waters and protected amphibian habitats.
