Aletsch Glacier: hiking and ski touring on the largest glacier in the Alps
Starting point for unique adventures in nature and UNESCO World Heritage Site
History of the Aletsch Glacier
The Aletsch Glacier is the largest glacier in the Alps. It covers an area of around 86 km² and is up to 900 metres thick. Its formation dates back to the last ice age, which ended around 18,000 years ago. At that time, a mighty ice cap covered the Alps and reached right into the valleys. At the end of the ice age, the ice slowly began to melt, forming rivers and lakes.
The Aletsch Glacier has changed again and again over the course of time. Due to global warming, the glacier is now melting faster than ever before. Since the year 2000, it has lost more than a third of its mass. Experts assume that it will have disappeared completely by 2100.
Nevertheless, the Aletsch Glacier is a fascinating natural spectacle and a popular excursion destination. There are numerous hiking trails along the glacier that offer impressive views of the ice and the surrounding mountain landscape. We recommend the themed trail ‘Great Aletsch Glacier through the ages’, which runs alongside the glacier and provides interesting information about its history and changes.
Tours that we offer to, near or over the Aletsch Glacier
Ski tours to the Konkordia hut SAC
1 or more days
Visit this hut with one of our experienced mountain guides after a wonderful high-altitude ski tour over the Aletsch Glacier!
Glacier treks and hikes
1 or more days, glacier tours and trekking
With an experienced mountain guide, you can explore the Aletsch Glacier region on a glacier trek or hike lasting one or more days. These are often suitable for families and offer fantastic views of the surrounding landscape.
Snowshoe hikes Aletsch Arena
1 or more days
A snowshoe hike is a great way to explore the Aletsch Arena with an experienced mountain guide, be it on the Fieschertal, Jungfraujoch or Grindelwald side!
Hiking trails on the Aletsch Glacier
When we set off to explore the Aletsch Glacier, we have various hiking trails to choose from. We present three possible routes below.
Aletsch Glacier circular trail
The Aletsch Glacier circular trail is a 9.8-kilometre circular trail that takes us on a breathtaking tour through the glacier world. We start the hike near the Bettmerhorn mountain station and first walk through an impressive rocky landscape. We then continue through the Aletsch Forest and finally reach the glacier tongue of the Aletsch Glacier. Here we have the opportunity to explore the impressive glacier gate before hiking back to the mountain station on a panoramic trail.
Glacier gate exploration
Another way to explore the Aletsch Glacier is to explore the glacier gate on a glacier tour. This is a 1.2 kilometre circular trail that takes us directly to the glacier gate. During the hike, we have the opportunity to experience the breathtaking landscape of the Aletsch Glacier at close quarters. The deep blue glacier mills and the imposing layers of ice are particularly impressive.
Viewpoints, high-altitude trails and panoramic paths
For those who don’t want to hike so much, the viewpoints and panoramic trails, such as those around the Aletsch Forest, are ideal. These are easily accessible by cable car and still offer spectacular views of the Aletsch Glacier and the surrounding mountains. We particularly recommend the Moosfluh viewpoint, from where we have a breathtaking view of the glacier. All in all, there are many ways to explore the Aletsch Glacier. Whichever route we choose, we will be rewarded with an impressive landscape and unforgettable impressions.
The beautiful peaks of the Jungfrau region, Aletsch Arena.
The areas around the Aletsch Glacier are also worth a visit: here the Fieschertal in all its splendour.
Ski tours on the Aletsch Glacier
There are several ski tours that lead over the Aletsch Glacier, here are a few of the most popular routes:
Eggishorn
This tour offers spectacular views of the Aletsch Glacier. It often starts from the Fiescheralp or Bettmeralp mountain station and leads over the Eggishorn to the summit. From there, you have a breathtaking view of the glacier and the surrounding mountains.
Konkordia hut
This tour leads to the Konkordiahütte, one of the largest and most important mountain huts in the Aletsch Glacier area. The route often starts in Fiesch and leads via the Märjelenseen lakes to the hut.
Hollandia hut
This tour leads to the Hollandiahütte, another popular mountain hut near the Aletsch Glacier. The route often starts in Fiesch and leads via the Märjelensee and the Ewigschneefeld to the hut.
Lötschen Pass
A challenging ski tour that connects the Aletsch Glacier with the Lötschental. The route leads from the Jungfraujoch via the Ewigschneefeld to the Lötschen Pass and then into the Lötschental.
Flora and fauna
During the Aletsch Glacier hikes, we are surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature. The Aletsch Arena is a paradise for plants and animals. Here we can admire a variety of flowers and shrubs that are native to this region. We can also observe different species of birds, including the majestic golden eagle soaring over the peaks.
Some of the plants we will see on our hike are the alpine rose, the edelweiss and the gentian. The alpine rose is one of the most famous flowers in the Alps and blooms from June to August. The edelweiss is a rare and protected flower that grows on the highest peaks. The gentian is also a typical Alpine flower and blooms from July to September.
In addition to the flowers, we can also observe various animal species. We can see marmots that live in the rocks and often whistle loudly to warn their mates of danger. We can also see chamois climbing on the steep rocks and feeding on grasses and herbs. If we are lucky, we may even spot ibex and golden eagles. All in all, the Aletsch Arena offers a rich and varied flora and fauna to discover. Our hike through this breathtaking landscape will provide us with unforgettable impressions and experiences.
Nature conservation Aletsch Arena
The Aletsch Glacier is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important part of the Swiss Alps. We must be aware that every action has an impact on nature. We therefore ask all hikers to observe the rules of nature conservation. This includes taking rubbish with you and not destroying any plants. We also recommend that you only enter the glacier with the necessary equipment and experience.
Q&As on the Aletsch Glacier: hiking and ski touring
Best period for a visit to the Aletsch Glacier
The best time to visit the Aletsch Glacier for hikers or ski tourers depends on personal preferences and planned activities. Here are some general guidelines:
Summer (June to September):
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- Hikers: In the summer months, the hiking trails around the Aletsch Glacier are usually easily accessible. The weather tends to be warmer and more stable, providing ideal conditions for hiking.
- Mountaineering: In summer, mountaineers can enjoy summit ascents, climbing tours and mountain tours in the region. Most peaks are snow-free and the weather conditions are generally more favourable than in winter.
Autumn (October to November):
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- Hikers: Autumn is a beautiful time to visit the Aletsch Glacier, as the landscape is often resplendent in bright autumn colours. The hiking trails are generally still easy to walk on, but the weather can be changeable.
- Ski tourers: There may already be snow at higher altitudes in autumn, making ski tours possible. However, conditions can be unpredictable and it is important to check the weather forecasts carefully and watch out for possible avalanches.
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Winter (December to March):
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- Ski tourers: Winter offers excellent conditions for ski tours around the Aletsch Glacier. The landscape is covered in snow and the routes often have well-snowed crevasses.
- Snowshoe hikers: Hikes in winter require special equipment and preparation. Snowshoes or crampons may be required and the routes can be more challenging depending on the snow conditions.
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Spring (April to May):
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- Ski tourers: Spring can be a good time for ski tours, as the days get longer and the weather tends to be more stable. However, conditions can vary depending on the snow conditions and temperature.
- Hikers: In spring there may be snowmelt, which can affect hiking conditions. Some hiking trails may not yet be accessible or require special equipment.
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Which routes are best suited for hiking on the Aletsch Glacier as a family or with children?
There are several routes on the Aletsch Glacier that are suitable for hikes with children or for families. One popular option is the Aletsch Panorama Trail, which leads from Fiescheralp to Bettmeralp. This route offers breathtaking views of the glacier and is relatively easy to master. Another option is the hike from Riederalp to Bettmerhorn. This route is a little more challenging, but also offers spectacular views.
Where is the Aletsch Glacier located?
The Aletsch Glacier is the largest glacier in the Alps and is located in the southern canton of Valais in Switzerland. It stretches over a length of around 23 kilometres from its origin in the Bernese Alps to its end point above the Rhone Valley. The glacier lies at the heart of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site and is surrounded by several famous peaks, including the Jungfrau, the Mönch and the Eiger North Face, all very well-known peaks in Switzerland.
Campsites near the Aletsch Glacier
There are several campsites near the Aletsch Glacier that are well suited for a visit to the region. Here are some of them:
- Camping Eggishorn: This campsite is located in Fieschertal, close to the valley station of the cable car to Eggishorn. From here you have a fantastic view of the Aletsch Glacier and the surrounding mountains.
- Camping Jungfrau: This campsite is located in Lauterbrunnen, close to the Aletsch Glacier. From here you can easily reach various starting points for hikes and activities.
- Camping Gletscherdorf: This campsite is located in Grindelwald, a popular tourist resort near the Aletsch Glacier. From here you have access to a variety of hiking trails and activities in the surrounding area.
Is it possible to hike on the Aletsch Glacier?
Yes, as part of a glacier trek, ski tour or snowshoe hike, you can explore the Aletsch Glacier with one of our experienced mountain guides. We offer several hikes and glacier treks on the Aletsch Glacier.
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