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the wooden footbridge
The wooden footbridge between Rapperswil and Hurden, opened in 2001, is the longest wooden bridge in Switzerland with a length of 841 meters. It is of international and historical significance. Already in Early Bronze Age culture, a link between the closest points on either side of Lake Zurich existed. The first wooden bridge was built with loose boards in 1360; the last bridge was demolished in 1878 with the opening of the Seedamm lake dam.
The prehistoric footbridge structures discovered on the lakebed to the west of the dam originated from the time around 1523 B.C. One of many discovered lakeshore settlements is located not far from the Heilig Hüsli (Little Holy House). Around 1500 B.C., settlers built a village on this small island. The lake surface and the islands between the footbridge and the Seedamm are nature reserves.
This area is one of the most important breeding grounds for water birds. A pebble island also offers space for domestic breeding birds. Fishing from the wooden footbridge as well as swimming and mooring of boats in this area are therefore prohibited.
The pilgrimage spot on the Rapperswil side of the footbridge invites hikers to rest. Picnicking is also permitted at the large wooden tables. When the weather is nice, the University of Applied Sciences runs a kiosk with drinks and small snacks.