Going to the bathroom on the trail

Sorry to gross anyone out, but I have a practical question.

I've only ever done wilderness hiking in the US where there are few people and you can 'go' where ever you like and leave it to turn back into soil.

It seems to me the Via Alpina is going to be semi-crowded in early July. Where do people 'go', say mid-way between Gimmelwald and the pass at Seinfurke or between the pass and Bundalp?

What's the protocol for toilet paper usage? Dig a hole and cover it back up?

Thanks :-)

Hi Remyo,

I don't know about any official regulations, but I guess these are the unwritten rules:

• Use public toilets in rail stations, cable car stations, restaurants, etc. whenever possible. For example, there's the RotstockHütte between Gimmelwald and the Sefinafurgga;
• If possible, take along any garbage and dispose of it in the next village;
• Indeed cover up anything that you can't take along and use degradable material only.

I hope you manage :-)