Top Hikes Around Grindelwald

The best hikes around Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a stunning alpine town nestled in the heart of the Jungfrau region. Not only is it perfect for a stroll around charming Swiss streets, but it’s also a hub for some of the best hikes you’ll find in the area. Whether you’re here to relax or ready to lace up your boots, Grindelwald has a trail for everyone. We’ve put together a list of must-do summer hikes, so stick with us to find your next adventure in this mountain paradise!

FIRST TO BACHALPSEE (AND FAULHORN)

Bachalpsee first grindelwald hike Image by Peter G

The trail from First to Lake Bachalpsee is easily one of the most popular hikes in the region. Starting at Primo, where you can experience the exhilarating Cliff Walk, this hike offers jaw-dropping views from start to finish. Sure, it can get a bit busy in peak season, but trust us—it’s worth it! https://www.instagram.com/p/DB9QJhouEl9/ This round-trip hike is about 8 km (5 miles) and takes around two hours. Kick things off at the First cable car station, where the 300-meter-long Cliff Walk awaits. Suspended high above the valley, this steel walkway offers insane views and some seriously Instagram-worthy shots. Entrance is free, so take your time before following the signs to Lake Bachalpsee. With an elevation gain of just 247 meters, the hardest part is near the beginning, after which you’ll be rewarded with the mirror-like waters of Bachalpsee reflecting the surrounding mountains. Think this hike is too short? No problem! Keep going past the lake towards the Mountain Hotel Faulhorn, where even more incredible views await. Plus, you can grab a cold beer or two up there—just remember, you’ll need the energy for the return trip.

SCHYNIGE PLATTE - FAULHORN - FIRST

Escursione a Schynige Platte Foto di Jakub Chlouba

For the true hiking enthusiasts, the Schynige Platte to First trail is an all-day adventure that combines all the highlights: ridge walks, wild alpine flora, panoramic views of the Eiger, Jungfrau, and Mönch peaks, and the famous Cliff Walk. This challenging hike is about 16 km (10 miles), takes around 6 hours, and has an elevation gain of roughly 900 meters, so prepare for a serious workout with some rocky stretches along the way. Starting at Schynige Platte, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views right from the beginning. Make your way up to Faulhorn for a 360° panoramic treat, then descend toward Bachalpsee and finally to First. A heads-up: the First cable car closes around 6 p.m., so plan to start early unless you fancy an extra 3-hour hike down to Grindelwald.

Hikes around Eiger

The next few hikes all center around the famous Eiger Glacier area. Whether you combine them into one epic day or tackle them separately, each trail offers a unique perspective on this iconic mountain.

EIGER TRAIL

The Eiger Trail is a classic, tracing the historic route climbers have used since the 1930s to tackle the daunting North Face. This trail starts at the Eigergletscher station and descends to Alpiglen station. The 6.5 km hike (about 4 miles) takes around 2 hours, and along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Eiger up close and personal.

PANORAMA TRAIL: MÄNNLICHEN TO EIGERGLETSCHER

MÄNNLICHEN hike Image by allPhoto Bangkok

Starting at Männlichen, a scenic summit overlooking Lauterbrunnen Valley and the surrounding peaks, this is a 7 km hike with mostly downhill sections. You’ll need to catch a train to Wengen, then a cable car up to Männlichen. From here, take in the views and start your hike towards the Eigergletscher station. The final 400 meters are steep, so if you’d rather skip this part, hop on the train from Kleine Scheidegg. The full hike takes around 3 hours.

VIA FERRATA ROTSTOCK

Calling all thrill-seekers! The Rotstock Via Ferrata is an unforgettable experience, combining hiking with vertical climbing. You’ll be clipped to a cable, scaling rock faces with ladders and footholds. This 2-hour loop starts and ends at the Eigergletscher station and includes a 420-meter climb to panoramic views that no camera can truly capture. Note: Via Ferrata requires special equipment, including a harness, helmet, and sturdy hiking shoes. For more details, check out our post on “Via Ferrata Around Interlaken.”

Whether you’re here for a leisurely lake walk or an adrenaline-pumping mountain climb, the hikes around Grindelwald have something for everyone. So grab your gear, enjoy the views, and don’t forget to stop for a beer along the way!