Hägendorf is a starting point for hikes to Tüfelsschlucht Gorge, Allerheiligenberg and Belchenfluh. These destinations appeal to different interests: bridges and walkways define the scenery in the gorge, while a themed trail and historic chapel are highlights at Allerheiligenberg.

Southern Jura foothills, gorge and mountain ridges

Hägendorf is a municipality in the district of Olten in the canton of Solothurn. It lies at 434 m above sea level on the plain at the southern foot of the Jura, where the Cholersbach stream flows out of Tüfelsschlucht Gorge into the Dünnern Valley. Olten is about five kilometres away to the northeast as the crow flies. The municipal area includes wooded and agricultural land as well as distinctive Jura mountain ranges and ridges. At 1,123 m above sea level, Ruchen is the highest point in Hägendorf. From Belchenfluh, the view extends across the Swiss Plateau, to the Alps and into the Black Forest.

Hiking with a variety of highlights

Tüfelsschlucht Gorge is 2.2 km long and has 32 bridges and walkways. You can explore it on your own or join a guided visit lasting about two hours. One route leads through the gorge up to Allerheiligenberg. The “Heaven and Hell” themed trail runs around Allerheiligenberg above Hägendorf and has 13 stations. The walking time itself is about one hour; the trail can be walked in either direction. The time estimates refer to different formats: for the themed trail, they indicate walking time, while for the gorge tour, they refer to the approximate duration of the guided visit.

A leisurely loop close to the village offers plenty of benches and expansive views. Hägendorf also has a challenging Vita Parcours fitness trail. This means there are different ways to enjoy the outdoors: a walk with places to sit and enjoy the views, and a more strenuous route.

The chapel and the history of the trail at Allerheiligenberg

Allerheiligenberg Chapel was built by Johann Carl Grimm in the 17th century. Over time, it developed into a well-known place of pilgrimage. The site’s history also includes a Way of the Cross, laid out in 1858 with 14 stations from Gnöd in Hägendorf via Alt Wäg to the chapel. The “Heaven and Hell” themed trail has its own connection to the chapel: as part of the trail, the bell was returned to its original location.

More things to do during your visit

The Tüfelsschlucht Mountain Run also passes through the landscape at the southern foot of the Jura: its route goes through the village and then into Tüfelsschlucht Gorge. Categories include schoolchildren aged 13 and over, young people aged 16 and over, fun runners aged 18 and over, and walking enthusiasts. The route, format and categories may vary from one edition to the next. If you are planning to attend the run, check the details for the relevant edition.

The SBB Railway Technology Centre in Hägendorf offers a different perspective. Guided visits for groups are available on request from Monday to Thursday and are free of charge. As visit arrangements may change, groups should confirm availability when making an enquiry.

Discover more destinations: Olten, Gretzenbach, Kappel, Schönenwerd

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