Glarus: Geological and Textile History

Alpine geology and textile and industrial history shape the character of destinations in Glarus. The canton is traversed by the Linth Valley; steep rock faces, remnants of glaciers, expansive Alps and clear mountain lakes define the landscape. At 3,612 metres, Tödi is the highest peak in the canton. The Glarus Alps are home to narrow river valleys and the largest postglacial landslide in the central Alpine region.

Landscape and Geological History

The Sardona Tectonic Arena makes the Glarus Thrust and the rock outcrops above and below it visible in three dimensions. This vividly illustrates how the Alps were folded. A panoramic mountain hike in the UNESCO World Heritage Site takes you through landscapes with a geological history spanning 300 million years. The World Heritage Site offers day trips and multi-day hikes with luggage transport and a personal geology guide. The second stage of the Via GeoAlpina leads from Elm to Linthal through a mountain landscape where the Glarus Thrust is particularly easy to see.

Hiking is one of several ways to experience the region: other options include climbing, ski touring, snowshoeing and winter hiking. The terrain is steep, and mountain and alpine hiking trails characterise the region. The municipality of Glarus has around 170 kilometres of official hiking trails. The circular mountain trail at Lake Klöntal opened to the public on 1 July 2023. When visiting, follow local notices about seasonal closures.

Textile and Industrial History

At Freuler Palace, the Museum of the Canton of Glarus presents permanent and temporary exhibitions on the history and culture of the canton. The permanent exhibition “Glarus Textile Printing”, which opened in 2024, explores the more than 250-year history of this craft. Fabrics, tools and photographs illustrate the craftsmanship and trade of Glarus textile printers. The museum offers guided tours of the exhibition lasting 60 or 90 minutes.

If you prefer to explore industrial history along a route, the Glarus Industrial Trail is a 50-kilometre cycling and hiking route through the Linth and Sernft valleys, passing old factories, factory owners’ villas, power stations, canals and modern factories. Elm Slate Factory offers a different perspective on the region’s former industries. Even 40 years after operations ceased, all the machinery there is still in working order. At the Mollis Museum, meanwhile, the permanent exhibition focuses on the geology and fossils of the Glarus region.

Regional Themes and Culture

The Schabziger Mountain Trail combines a hike with culinary highlights. Ten information panels explain the history, production and marketing of Schabziger and describe the development of alpine farming and the mountain economy in the canton of Glarus. The “House of Läderach” experience offers a glimpse behind the scenes of handcrafted chocolate production. Check the latest visitor information before your visit.

Political and artistic themes are also part of the canton’s identity. The Landsgemeinde is a long-standing tradition of direct democracy: eligible voters meet in the open air to decide on laws and elections. Kunsthaus Glarus provides a platform for contemporary Swiss and international art. The Anna Göldi Museum traces the life of the maid Anna Göldi, who was executed by the sword in 1782. You can tailor your trip to your interests in geological history, hiking, industry, regional products or culture.

Discover more destinations: Elm, Braunwald, Glarus, Mollis, Engi, Matt, Filzbach, Nidfurn, Näfels, Obstalden, Mühlehorn, Glarus Süd, Niederurnen.

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