Stoneman Glaciara Hike

Starting from Biel in the Goms area, the trail heads up to the Goms Höhenweg, a high-altitude trail. From there, it continues towards Bellwald, leading you to the Aspi-Titter suspension bridge. After crossing the bridge, the trail involves a steep climb towards Märjelenwang. When reaching the Märjelen valley, you will go past Lake Märjelensee and ascend to Eggishorn, which has views of the pristine Aletsch Glacier. If you’re looking for a less demanding option, the Panorama Trail is available as an alternative.

The trail takes you over the high-altitude trail towards Bettmerhorn and then to the Moosfluh viewpoint. From here, you will descend to Bettmeralp, followed by a hike towards Alpmatten and Martisberg, eventually reaching the Sport Resort in Fiesch. The trail crosses the Rhone, with stops at Ernen and Mühlebach, and returns across the river via the second suspension bridge: Goms Bridge.

The final leg includes an uphill hike to St. Anna Chapel, which will set your direction toward Niederwald. On your way, you will cross the Rhone again before Blitzingen, and then follow the Gommer Waldweg, a forest trail, to Reckingen. The trail ends with a hike back to the starting point in Biel where you’ll finish this 65-kilometer circular trail.

The best time to hike the Stoneman Glaciara Hike and overall in the Aletsch Arena is from June to October. This period is the best hiking season in the Aletsch Arena because the weather is the most stable with longer daylight hours. During this time, the high-altitude meadows bloom with a vibrant array of alpine flowers, and the trails are mostly snow-free. In June there might be some snow on the trails but in July it should be melted, making it easier to hike the trails, especially the more challenging routes.

Autumn brings a beautiful hiking experience with lesser crowds and the landscape turns into a stunning palette of golds, reds, and browns. However, the weather can be more unpredictable with a higher chance of snowfall. Mornings can be crisp, and higher altitudes might start to see the first dustings of snow within this period.

Before setting out, check the weather forecast and be aware of the trail conditions such as snow. Ensure your fitness is enough for hiking this trail. Bring a map and put the GPX on your mobile for navigation. Make sure to have a fully charged phone, possibly with a power bank.

Dress in layers and always bring a hardshell and warmer (down) jacket with you to adapt to changing conditions, Choose hiking shoes with a good grip. Other essentials include a first-aid kit, extra food, and water.

Mountain weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for sudden drops in temperature and unexpected rainfall. Start your day early to avoid being caught by afternoon thunderstorms that are common in mountainous regions. Stay on marked trails to minimize environmental impact and reduce the risk of getting lost. Yield to uphill hikers and be mindful of wildlife. Leave no trace by packing out all the trash.