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Events Rhine Gorge: From Ilanz to Versam into the heart of the Rhine Gorge
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Important note: On Saturday, October 18, 2025, the hiking trail through the Rhine Gorge from Ilanz to Chrummwag will be closed from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. due to the Transruinaulta event.
The Rhine Gorge is known as the "Grand Canyon" of Switzerland. This hike offers a unique insight into the flora and fauna as well as the geology of the historic Flims rockslide.
Details
Description
Along the Vorderrhein, the hike leads through a floodplain landscape of national importance. The "Swiss Grand Canyon," wild and untouched, offers a habitat for a variety of plants and animals. Among them are the highly endangered bird species the common ringed plover and the little ringed plover, which are native to the Rhine Gorge. In Switzerland, only about 80 to 120 pairs of each species breed, half of them in the canton of Graubünden. In spring, egg laying, incubation, and feeding of the young take place. However, caution: human disturbance during this time endangers breeding. Therefore, there is a ban on entering the designated protected areas between April 1 and July 15.
On the slopes of the Rhine Gorge, ecologically valuable heath pine forests grow. This forest community is particularly attractive due to its great abundance of orchids. The orchids are protected and must not be picked. The best-known species is the lady's slipper orchid, which blooms in early summer.
At the destination Versam Safien Station, sandstone walls up to 300 meters high tower; the monumental highlight of the gorge.
Hidden Gem
Dining options are available at the Valendas train station as well as at the Versam station. There are also nice fire pits along the way.
Safety Note
In uncertain weather conditions, the route should not be started. Weather changes in the mountains are frequent. If a rain front or similar approaches during the hike, you should turn back in time.
Please observe trail closures, e.g., during floods.
Equipment
Good hiking shoes with a good tread, weather-appropriate clothing (rain jacket/sun protection), drink, food, first aid kit, possibly hiking poles.
Directions
Ilanz (train station) - Castrisch - Valendas-Sagogn train station - Versam-Safien train station
Directions
Public Transport
From Chur, the Ilanz train station is easily accessible with a scenic ride through the Rhine Gorge. The hike can be shortened at any time by the Rhaetian Railway. You can find the exact connections on the SBB website.
Travel Information
Ilanz is accessible from both Chur and Disentis/Mustér via main road 19.
Parking
There is a paid parking lot directly at the train station in Ilanz. Additional paid parking spaces are available near the station.
There is another smaller parking lot at the train station in Castrisch (also paid).
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