Just over three hours from Stuttgart, the Stoos Ridge hike is one of the best hikes in Switzerland, and one that had been on our list for a long time. We finally made the trip on a quick overnight getaway with friends, bringing along four children under the age of five.

If you're wondering whether this famous ridge hike is doable with young kids, the answer is yes. With a little planning and plenty of snack breaks, it turned out to be one of our favorite family hikes in the Alps.

*Views near the start of the Stoos Ridge hike at Klingenstock*

Where to Stay

We stayed at Stoos Lodge, mainly because of its location just steps from the funicular station. It also has modern family rooms, an indoor play area, an on-site restaurant, and an optional breakfast buffet. Our room comfortably fit a king bed and a pull-out bed, giving us plenty of space for our family. It was the perfect place to relax in between hikes.

*Stooskapelle Maria Hilf located next to Stoos Lodge*

Getting to Stoos Ridge

We drove from Stuttgart and parked at Parkhaus Stoosbahnen P1, directly beside the Schwyz–Stoos Funicular. There were plenty of parking spaces available in early July, but during peak season you can reserve parking online in advance. If you're staying overnight, I recommend taking the funicular rather than the cable car from Morschach, especially if you're traveling with luggage.

The Schwyz–Stoos Funicular is the world's steepest funicular, reaching the mountain village in just a few minutes. From there, Stoos Lodge is located next to the funicular station.

Both the Klingenstock and Fronalpstock chairlifts are about a 15-minute walk from the lodge in opposite directions. The chairlifts begin operating at 9:00 a.m. While the official schedule lists funicular departures twice an hour starting at 7:00 a.m., trains were running roughly every 10 minutes during our Saturday visit. Always check the latest seasonal schedule before you go.

If you're arriving by public transportation, take the train to Schwyz, then Bus 501 toward Muotathal Hölloch/Stoosbahn, getting off at Schwyz, Stoosbahn.

Hiking Stoos Ridge: Klingenstock to Fronalpstock

I recommend starting at Klingenstock and hiking toward Fronalpstock so you finish at the restaurant and playground. After breakfast, we made our way to the open-air chairlift that takes you to the trailhead right at 9:00. On the chairlift, you'll immediately be greeted by views of grazing cows, wildflower-filled meadows, and dramatic mountain peaks. When exiting the lift, turn right and follow the signs toward Fronalpstock.

The hike is approximately 4.4 km (2.7 miles) and offers spectacular views almost the entire way. I'd easily rank it among the most scenic ridge hikes in Switzerland. The trail gently rolls over the ridgeline with a few climbs and descents before ending with the steepest section—a rocky scramble up to Fronalpstock. I'd rate the hike as moderate, mostly because of this final climb.

There is very little shade, so pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats, especially during the summer months.We completed the hike with four children under five. Our five- and four-year-olds walked the entire trail, while the two three-year-olds alternated between walking and riding in Osprey child carriers. Including lots of snack, photo, and water breaks, the hike took us about 3.5 hours.

Arriving at Fronalpstock

*Views of the lakes below near Fronalpstock*

One of the best parts of doing the Klingenstock to Fronalpstock hike is the finish. At the summit you'll find a large playground, an alpine restaurant, and a small goat enclosure. After polishing off plates of chicken nuggets, fries, and well-earned ice cream (bribery for keeping them moving on the trail), the kids spent some time playing while we soaked in the views of the lakes below.

From Fronalpstock, you can either hike back down to Stoos village or ride the chairlifts. Taking the lifts requires one transfer at the midway station before continuing to the village. If our kids had been a little older, I would have loved to hike back down through the alpine pastures. The scenery was stunning, and there were plenty of photogenic Swiss cows along the way.

Final Thoughts

Stoos Ridge is a hike I'd love to do again. Between the dramatic scenery, relatively short distance, and family-friendly facilities at the finish, it's one of the best day trips from Stuttgart for anyone looking to experience the Swiss Alps.

If you have young children and don't mind taking your time, this hike is absolutely achievable and one you'll be talking about long after you get home.

Things to Know Before Hiking Stoos Ridge

Wear sturdy hiking boots; the terrain is quite rocky in some parts along the trail.
Purchase a two-day pass if you're staying overnight, as it covers both the funicular and chairlifts.
Chairlifts begin operating at 9:00 a.m.
The Schwyz–Stoos Funicular begins running around 7:00 a.m. (check the seasonal timetable before your visit).
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and plenty of water since there is almost no shade.
The hike is family-friendly, but allow extra time for frequent breaks if you're hiking with young children.
Don’t forget to purchase your vignette if you are driving (Switzerland only offers an annual pass)

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Stoos Ridge hike with kids: Klingenstock to Fronalpstock guide