On the ridge from Fanenstock (2235 m) to Foostock (2611 m)

I started this hike in Elm right where the aerial cable way starts (Tschinglenbahn). It was only about 5° C when I started at 8:00 in the morning, and the first 1 h 20 min of the ascent took place in the shade. The trail to Fanenstock (2235 m) is marked white-red-white and is easy to follow (T2).

After a short photo stop at the summit of Fanenstock, I continued on the ridge towards Blattengrat. On the way there I spotted two chamois on the steep north-west side. Mostly the ridge is T3, but at some point at Blattengrat, the ridge is narrow and exposed (T4). However, this particular section could be avoided with a minor detour on the south side of the ridge.

After Blattengrat, I continued to Grüenenspitz (T3). Further along the ridge, the descent from P.2362 is quite steep, but without problems in dry conditions (T4-). This section could also be avoided with a small detour on the south side of the ridge. During the ascent to P.2412, I observed a large group of male ibex (at least 25 animals).

Next, I headed for Foostöckli (2536 m). The last part of the ascent is steep, but not more than a T3. After a short stop at the summit, I headed for the traverse on the north side of Foostöckli. Without snow or ice I assume this is only a T4-. But there was still remains of frozen snow, and even patches of ice in the section which is not secured with a rope, so it was a bit more challenging (T4+).

The ascent to Foostock was then rather easy despite some patches of snow (T3+). The view from the summit of Foostock (2611 m) was magnificent - please check out the photos!

On the return trip I again hiked below Foostöckli on the north side, and continued on the ridge towards Grüenenspitz. However, at P.2288 (above Raminer Täli), I started traversing below Grüenenspitz and then towards Färispitz (T3). After that last peak, I headed back to Elm on the marked trail via Chamm and Gamperdun Mittelstafel (T2).

Many thanks to Bergamotte for the recent report about the area. It was very helpful for my tour planning.

Total hiking distance: 20 km

Equipment: hiking sticks