In the framework of the TRAMM (Triggering of Rapid Mass Movements in steep terrain) project a process study was carried out at the Rufiberg test site in central Switzerland. The mountain shoulder has a long history of shallow landslides and all dispositions for the occurrence of such mass movements are met at the test site. The hydrological behavior of the present gley soil is believed to be crucial. Therefore the soil moisture dynamics of this hillslope was analyzed over an eleven month period (November 2009 - September 2009). By means of TDR probes, groundwater wells, and drainage pipes the spatial and temporal soil moisture distribution, the groundwater table and subsurface storm flow were monitored. Four advective precipitation events, occurring during the summer period, were analyzed more closely with respect to their influence on the soil moisture pattern with depth. Furthermore, a water balance analysis was carried out, aiming at determining the soils maximum precipitation uptake and estimating the influence of precipitation on the saturation behavior of the soil. Variance in soil properties and microtopography were identified to be the dominant influencing factors for the spatial soil moisture pattern. Antecedent soil moisture content, precipitation intensity and duration determined the saturation behavior of the soil. Finally, the influence of precipitation and groundwater table increase on the occurrence and amount of subsurface storm flow was evaluated. The aim of this study is to gain process understanding of the hydrological functioning of this test site.