Viamala Gorge — Hinterrhein Valley Floor Dispersed Camp

The Hinterrhein valley between Thusis and Zillis has a handful of gravel flats along the river where self-contained overlanders have traditionally overnighted. The gorge walls close in dramatically here — sheer limestone cliff faces above a cold, fast-moving river — and the valley floor opens just enough for a rig or two on the cobble banks. No facilities, no signage, no rubbish service. Pack out everything. Fire restrictions in Canton Graubünden are strict during dry summer periods — treat it as a fire-ban zone unless you’ve confirmed local conditions.

Access is off the old Via Mala cantonal road (the pre-N13 alignment) or from Thusis south via the Hinterrhein corridor road. High-clearance recommended for the rougher river-access tracks. Snow closes the upper approaches by late October. Cell signal is partial in the gorge bottom — satellite comms are worth carrying. Verify current cantonal rules on wild camping before you commit; Swiss regulations vary by municipality.

Gorge walls, cold river, no crowds.