Wooden Ball Run Trail: Hike & Roll

It’s surprising what a simple wooden ball can do. On Brunni Engelberg, six wooden ball runs now adds a playful twist to the hike from Härzlisee via Rosenbold to Ristis.

At Brunni Engelberg, a classic mountain hike is already reason enough to come: the scent of wildflower meadows, cowbells echoing up the slope, and views that sweep all the way to Titlis. But the trail from Härzlisee via Rosenbold to Ristis now comes with an extra twist for families – a playful thread woven through the landscape.

Even before the hike begins, the ritual at Härzlisee sets the scene. Shoes and socks come off and children squeal their way along the Kneipp barefoot circuit, splashing through icy spring water and balancing over stones, pinecones and wood shavings. Arms dip into cold pools, feet fizz in the bubbling tub until every sense wide awake.

As feet dry, the first wooden ball run comes into view: a giant labyrinth demanding both hands and a steady touch. The ball wobbles, teeters on the edge, dodges holes and – if luck holds – reaches the finish. Instantly, the quest is on: where’s the next run?

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  Foot bath at Härzlisee

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  "Holzwurm" station

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  Hollowed out tree trunks

The new 3 km section of the ball run trail follows the hiking path from Härzlisee via Rosenbold to Ristis, connecting with the panoramic route to Rigidalalp for a full circuit. Six ball runs punctuate the trail, each with its own mechanics. The “Holzwurm”, an articulated wooden worm, only lets the ball through once all segments are lined up. Elsewhere, balls disappear down hollowed-out trunks, drop into stone tunnels or rattle behind cabin walls, always popping up further down the path.

The hike itself shifts between open alpine meadows and dappled woodland, with big views one moment and hands-on experiments the next. Every so often, a Globine treasure chest tempts families off the main route for a bonus puzzle. And quickly, the usual question fades away —“How much farther”? The focus is simply the next chance to set the ball rolling.

With plenty of play breaks, two hours pass almost unnoticed before you reach the mid-station. Legs are tired, cheeks are flushed from the fresh air and excitement. And in every hand there is a wooden marble, lovingly launched again and again, until the last labyrinth signals the journey’s end.

WOODEN BALL TRAIL

Route 1: Härzlisee – Rigidalalp – Ristis, 3.5 km, suitable for pushchairs

Route 2: Härzlisee – Rosenbold – Ristis, 3 km, not suitable for pushchairs

The two routes can also be combined into a circular walk.

Tips: Wooden balls are available from the shop at Ristis or the herb hut at Härzlisee.

The trail can be combined with the Globi & Globine treasure hunt. There are also several barbecue spots with firewood along the way, as well as places to stop for food and drinks.

In summer, children travel free when accompanied by their parents.

Find out more here.