Bärentrek

The Bärentrek is part of the Via Alpina 1. This almost 400-kilometer thru-hike through Switzerland and the Swiss Alps stretches from east to west, featuring a daily altitude gain of over 1000 meters. It’s a demanding hike that rewards with views of the Bernese Oberland’s four-thousanders, alpine lakes, flower-filled meadows, and panoramic mountain huts. The trail, marked from village to village, allows you to experience Swiss mountain culture, complete with local cuisine.

The Via Alpina 1 is one of Switzerland’s seven National Routes and goes through 14 Alpine passes and seven cantons, offering diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. It is part of a network of five trails across eight Alpine countries, highlighting the region’s natural and cultural diversity. Plus, in Switzerland’s normal style, you can expect well-marked trails and accommodation options, from cozy mountain huts to luxurious hotels depending on your budget.

The trail is particularly demanding during the “king’s stage,” recognized as the most beautiful yet strenuous part of the journey towards Kandersteg. The reward for this challenging day is a night at the Blümlisalp hut, perched at 2840m, which has views next to a glacier, making the strenuous journey worthwhile. The feeling of being amidst the colossal mountains is both humbling and awe-inspiring.

From here, the trail leads to Oeschinensee, an alpine lake known for its vibrant blue waters. For those seeking a shorter journey, the Bärentrek offers a condensed experience, encompassing stages 10 to 15 of the Via Alpina 1, ideal for experiencing a portion of the trail.

The Via Alpina 1 is categorized as a medium-difficulty trail. Although it doesn’t involve technical climbing, the trail’s elevation gains are both a physical and mental challenge. Please be careful with the altitudes that exceed 2000m and the quickly changing Alpine weather conditions.

The best time of the year to hike the Bärentrek is from late June to early or mid-September. These periods typically offer better weather in the mountains, longer daylight hours, and less chance of snow-packed trails. When you go hiking earlier in the season you may find snowfields on your way or if you go later you might end up in a snowstorm. Also, not all accommodations, especially the mountain huts, are open in the off-season.

Safety

Navigating the Bärentrek, you’ll traverse a mix of meadows and mountain passes, which means you’ll need to have a deep respect for the natural surroundings. The Alps are famous for their quickly changing weather, with clear skies that can give way to storms or rain, particularly at higher elevations.

Thorough preparation is crucial for a fulfilling hike. The Switzerland Mobility website offers valuable resources, such as trail guides, maps, and advice. These tools are essential, whether you’re mapping out your daily journey or searching for places to stay along the path, making for a safe trail experience.

Essential Gear

Remember to pack your hiking boots with a reliable grip. Dress with a layering strategy allows you to adapt to fluctuating temperatures and weather conditions. Begin with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer for warmth, and complete your ensemble with a waterproof and windproof outer layer for protection against the weather. Don’t forget to pack a down jacket to stay warm during the brisk mornings and cool evenings.