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Piz S-charl East

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

Piz S-charl is a prominent mountain peak in the Lower Engadine Dolomites, located in the canton of Graubünden, Switzerland. Reaching an elevation of 3097 meters above sea level, it stands as a significant landmark between the Val S-charl and the Val Müstair. Geologically, the mountain is composed of triassic dolomite, which accounts for its rugged and craggy appearance typical of this range. The first recorded ascents of the peak date back to the 19th century, often involving local hunters and early mountaineers. The nearby settlement of S-charl was historically a vital mining hub for silver and lead between the 14th and 19th centuries. Today, the area lies on the fringes of the Swiss National Park, preserving a pristine high-alpine environment rich in specialized flora and fauna. From the summit, climbers are rewarded with expansive views of the Ortler Alps and the Silvretta range.

Location: Switzerland
Top sights: Piz Rims · Schadler · Piz Cristanas
Nearby: Scuol (9 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-9	-8	-4	1	6	10	12	12	8	3	-2	-8
Rain mm	41	38	49	69	103	114	119	131	91	88	86	51

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Access to the east summit is mostly from the remote village of S-charl in the Lower Engadine. The area is located in the Lower Engadine Dolomites and borders the Swiss National Park.

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Best season

The best time to visit is in mid-summer from July to September when the flora of the Engadine mountains is in bloom. In autumn, stable weather conditions often provide great hiking opportunities.

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Terrain & paths

The terrain is defined by the characteristic scree slopes and rock formations of the Lower Engadine Dolomites. Marked paths lead through lonely valleys up into the rocky summit region.

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What to bring

Stable hiking boots with a grippy sole are essential for walking in the loose dolomite scree. Protection against wind and sun should always be carried due to the high altitude of the area.

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Parking

Parking is available at the entrance to the village of S-charl, as the village itself is largely car-free. Visitors can also use the shuttle bus from Scuol to reach S-charl conveniently.

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Safety

Caution is advised on the scree slopes regarding rockfall and slipping hazards, especially when wet. Stay on marked paths to protect the sensitive nature near the national park's border.

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Time needed

For the ascent of Piz S-charl East from S-charl, you should plan for about 5 to 6 hours of walking time. It is a rewarding half-day or full-day tour in a very quiet and peaceful mountain region.

Geography

Coordinates

46.73000, 10.36000

Facts

The official elevation of the summit is 3097 meters above sea level.
Geologically, the mountain belongs to the S-charl nappe of the Engadine Dolomites.
Mining activities in the surrounding valley ceased permanently in 1833.
The summit marks the boundary between the Scuol and Val Müstair municipalities.
Nearby is the God da Tamangur, the highest stone pine forest in Europe.
The mountain's topographic dominance is 3.3 kilometers to the nearest higher peak.