Lötschenpasshütte

A pass hiking tour with stunning views from canton Bern into canton Valais. The deep valleys and high peaks of the Bernese and Valais Alps are impressive.

Take a taxibus from Kandersteg to get to the start of this hiking route. Bookings are essential by calling 033 671 11 71. Timetable Kander Reisen.
After a 25-minute journey through the majestic Gasterntal the taxibus stops at Hotel Steinbock in Selden (1,550 m). Here the clearly signposted hiking route turns off across the river Kander over a suspension bridge. Take the hairpin bends for the next 60 minutes to climb 300 metres up to Gfellalp (1,845 m). The route continues to climb over Alpine meadows as far as Läckboden, a plateau with an impressive view into the valley basin and its sheer rock faces.Now follow the ascent below the eastern face of the Balmhorn and up to the Balme at 2,400 m. This is a hike of about 2 1/2 hours from Selden. Make the short descent across the moraine region to the glacier; the route is marked with posts and is accessible. The route continues across the moraine on the other side and carries on southwards to a rocky incline. During the last 45 minutes there are several more steep sections over rocky terrain with wire safety ropes in some sections. After the challenging ascent the reward is the stunning view of the 4,000-m Valais Alps. At last, the mountain hut is also in sight and is only a few minutes away.

Duration:Selden - Lötschen Pass: 3 hrs. 30 mins.Lötschen Pass - Lauchernalp: 1 hrs. 45 mins.

Route / Difficulty level:T3, requires a safe step (»Info Swiss SAC Hiking Scale)

Return trip:by Lauchernalp cable car to Wiler. By bus to Goppenstein railway station.

Gastronomy:Selden, Lauchernalp

Alternative route:Continue on the route to Blatten or Fafleralp.