The pre-Alps around the Vierwaldstättersee (Lake Lucerne) offer abundant shoulder season trail running. For an early ridge line traverse with a Hardergrat-esque feel, the section of ridge connecting the Jochlistock with the Oberbauenstock is sure to satisfy the craving of what summer delivers.

After the lift up to Niederbauen, the run starts off with an easy 4km downhill. The climb kicks off soon enough to bring you up to the ridge to tag the Jochlistock and Gandispitz on the way to Oberbauenstock. From the summit, double back just 100 meters of elevation and split off the north side of the ridge. The start of the descent is very steep and rocky, and fitted with cables and rungs. It'll be slow going for a few steps but leaves you at a buffed-out sloping trail, first through rock, and then a very long traverse cut into a flower covered hillside. From there you'll coast back to Niederbauen with more opportunities to enjoy the view of Vierwaldstättersee, and the lift back to nearly lake level where swimming awaits.