Rules of conduct on the mountain
Hikers, bikers, excursionists, animals: They are all out and about on Flumserberg in summer. For an enjoyable and – above all – safe time on the mountain, there are a few rules to be observed. It is also important to know what to do in case of an emergency.
- Adapt your equipment to the hike – from functional footwear to sun and rain protection, a mobile phone, and a first-aid kit.
- Carefully plan your mountain tour and realistically assess your own abilities.
- Inform third parties, such as the staff at your accommodation, about your planned route – especially, in case of long and demanding tours.
- Bring sufficient snacks and plenty to drink.
- Turn around at the first sign of a change in weather and avoid individual trees and mountain ridges in the event of a sudden thunderstorm.
- Shortcuts can be dangerous! So stay on the signposted trails and explore unknown terrain only if accompanied by a trained mountain or hiking guide.
- Base the difficulty of the tour on the ability of the weakest hiker in the group.
- Keep nature clean and thus protect flora and fauna.
The Swiss hiking trail network is divided into different categories of trails.
Hiking trails are generally accessible and often wide paths. They do not usually have an asphalt or concrete surface and can sometimes be narrow and uneven. Steep stretches have steps. Areas close to drops are made safe by railings. Watercourses are crossed on footbridges or other types of bridges. Apart from the usual need to remain alert and exercise caution, there are no special requirements. Recommended: Footwear with non-slip soles.
Hiking trails are signposted in yellow.
Mountain hiking trails are hiking trails, parts of which open up what is otherwise impassable terrain. They are predominantly steep, narrow and parts are exposed. Particularly difficult passages are made easier by the addition of ropes or chains. Streams may have to be forded. Surefootedness, a head for heights, good physical condition and experience of mountains are required. Sturdy footwear with non-slip soles and equipment appropriate for the weather are necessary.
The signposts are yellow with a white-red-white tip, confirmations and markings along the trail are white-red-white.
Alpine hiking trails are demanding mountain trails, some of which lead over snowfields, glaciers or scree slopes and through areas of bare rock with short sections which have to be climbed. Surefootedness, a head for heights and very good physical condition are required. Alpine experience and appropriate equipment are necessary.
The signposts are blue with a white-blue-white tip, confirmations and markings along the trail are white-blue-white. There are no alpine hiking trails in the Flumserberg area.
- Adapt your speed to your individual ability and the difficulty of the route. Only stop along the side of the trail. You must be prepared to stop at any moment if you see something or someone in your way.
- Wear protective gear: A helmet is mandatory – gloves and protectors are recommended.
- On freeride routes: Only use suitable bikes and follow the general mountain bike rules and traffic regulations.
- Do not leave the signposted routes and trails.
- Child seats are prohibited on the BikerTrails.
- Observe the signals and instructions of the mountain railway staff.
- In the event of a fall, immediately clear the trail and, in an emergency, contact the mountain railway rescue services. Tell them where you are by stating the route number and section letter.
- Give way to hikers.
- Do not forget to close pasture fences and gates.
- The opening hours of the BikerTrails depend on the operating hours of the railway facilities.
- Stay calm and secure the site of the accident.
- Provide first aid.
- Alert the rescue services of the Flumserberg mountain railways: +41 81 720 15 19
- Who is reporting the incident?
- What happened?
- Where and when did the emergency occur?
- How many people are injured?
In addition, a phone number should be provided for possible return calls.
Many of the hiking trails and cycling routes run through Alpine meadows. Hence, the following things must be observed when dealing with animals on a pasture:
- When entering a pasture: Keep calm and do not startle or frighten the animals. Carefully close the gate behind you and stay on the hiking trail.
- If possible, keep a safe distance from the animals – especially mother cows and their calves. Never touch calves!
- If a herd is blocking the trail, you should opt for walking around it rather than walking right through it. Do not turn your back on the animals.
- Keep dogs on a lead and under control. If an animal attacks, let your dog off the lead so it can flee. If possible, have your dog walk on the side that is facing away from the herd.
- As soon as it becomes apparent that animals feel threatened, slowly back up and leave the pasture.
Clear signs that a mother cow feels threatened or becomes aggressive are the raising and lowering of the head, snorting, pawing the ground, and loud mooing.
