Aletsch Glacier Trail

Originating from the northern flanks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, the Aletsch Glacier flows southward towards the Aletsch Forest and past the Märjelensee lake before splitting into smaller parts. The Aletsch Glacier Trail partly follows the Aletsch Panoramaweg 39. Stage two of this long-distance trail overlaps from Moosfluh until the Gletscherstube at the Märjelensee before hopping off from the Aletsch Panoramaweg 39 towards the cable car station above Fiescheralp, the endpoint of the trail.

The Aletsch Arena, situated in the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site, has an impressive network of 300 kilometers of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Highlights include the magnificent Aletsch Glacier, the longest in the Alps, and ancient stone pine forests that have stood for centuries. Another attraction is the collection of five suspension bridges in the Aletsch Goms area.

The best time to hike the Aletsch Glacier Trail and overall in the Aletsch Arena is undoubtedly from June through late September. This period is the best hiking season in the Aletsch Arena when the weather is the most stable with longer daylight hours. During this time, the high-altitude meadows bloom with beautiful alpine flowers, and the trails are mostly snow-free. In June there might be some snow on the trails but by July it should be melted, making it easier to hike the trails.

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

Before setting out, check the weather forecast and be aware of the trail conditions such as snow. Check in with yourself to see if your fitness level is good enough for hiking this trail.

Bring a map with you and load the GPX on your mobile for navigation. Start with a fully charged phone, and bring a power bank if you need it. Dress in layers and always pack a hardshell and jacket with you to adapt to the changing conditions in the mountains. Choose hiking shoes with a good grip. The other essentials we recommend you include are a first-aid kit, extra food, and water.

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