Escape to the heart of the Liechtenstein Alps with the Steg Lakes Loop, an easy and incredibly scenic 1.6 km (1 mile) hike perfect for families and casual walkers. This accessible loop trail near Steg, Liechtenstein, offers quintessential alpine beauty, featuring the pristine waters of Ganglesee and the striking turquoise hues of Stausee Steg.
Discover why this trail is a must-do, providing stunning views of cascading waterfalls, peaceful alpine meadows dotted with charming chalets, the soothing chime of cowbells, and panoramic views of the majestic Liechtenstein Alps. Whether you're searching for easy hikes in Liechtenstein, the best views in Steg, or a relaxing walk around the Ganglesee and Stausee Steg, this detailed guide has everything you need to experience this magical corner of the European Alps.
Steg Lakes Loop: A Scenic 1.6 km Alpine Hike around Ganglesee and Stausee Steg
This hike begins on the west side of Ganglesee, along Valünastrasse near Steg and follows the public trail as it leads south along the lake. As you hike south along Ganglesee, hikers will find breathtaking views of the alpine mountains that surround the valley, especially the alpine ridges of Naafkopf and Hinter Grauspitz. As you follow the trail, it eventually leads over a footbridge that span the stream, Valünerbach. From the east side of Ganglesee, the trail runs north as it leads to more viewpoints of this scenic alpine lake and the surrounding mountains. From the north shore of Ganglesee, you'll find more beautiful Alps views to the south and to the north sits the top of the Stausee Steg waterfall. Alpine Meadows, Panoramic Views, and Turquoise Waters of Stausee Steg
Once you pass the bridge that connects Ganglesee to Stausee Steg, the hike leads north along the east side of Stausee Steg. First, you'll hike past several charming alpine chalets and homes before the trail leads into an open meadow. From the sprawling alpine meadow, during warm months, hikers will find cows grazing on grasses where you can listen to the chime of their cowbells, all while standing under the scenic snow-capped Alps of Liechtenstein. As the trail runs along the top of a hill, high above Stausee Steg, you will find the deep turquoise hues of the lake below your feet. To the south, you'll find views of the waterfall that cascades into Stausee Steg and towering alpine mountains in the valley. The views from this section of the hike are simply unmatched and should not be skipped! The trail eventually loops around Stausee Steg and follows a bridge, with a pump house building, located on the northern reaches of the lake. After crossing the footbridge, the hike leads down the west side of the lake, following Valünastrasse as the main path. Stausee Steg Waterfall - 1.44 km
Before you reach the parking lot, a small trail leads down to the water's edge of Stausee Steg from Valünastrasse near 1.45 km. Hike this trail for just a short way downhill where you'll find a scenic view of the 4-meter (13-foot) tall waterfall of Stausee Steg. From here, the turquoise waters of Valünerbach flow into Stausee Steg to fill the lake with more colorful hues. Return to Parking
After exploring the Stausee Steg waterfall, the trail leads right back to the parking lot after hiking back up to Valünastrasse. The hike wraps up at the parking lot for an easy 1.6 km (1 mile) loop hike in Steg, Liechtenstein. Parking & Directions: Getting to the Steg Lakes Loop
Hikers that wish to explore the lakes in Steg will find a large parking lot on the west side of Valünastrasse near Ganglesee. The parking lot can accommodate approximately 40 vehicles as of September 2025. If driving in from the Liechtenstein valley near Triesen, you will drive up the mountainside and through a tunnel that cuts through the mountain to reach Steg. Pets
Dogs are allowed only if leashed and must be cleaned up after.
