Top 5 Nordic Ski Trails

Discover why cross-country skiing in Switzerland cannot be bettered on our most beautiful trails. Red, blue, yellow, green, black? Unlike downhill skiing, these colours represent the variety of terrain offered by the trail rather than how challenging it is. From the local or high-altitude trail to the night trail, everything is covered in this selection.

Red Trail – Kandersteg

Starting by a small lake, this trail gently undulates against a backdrop of centuries-old chalets. This varied route in Kandersteg appeals to cross-country skiers of all abilities. After about an hour, you will be back at your starting point on this 5 km (3-mile) loop around the valley floor.

Blue Trail – Kandersteg (Heart Trail)

This easy trail is prepared for the classic Nordic skiing style and runs alongside the River Kander, making it ideal for beginners and children. Those who appreciate leisurely laps close to the village with some great scenery will get their money's worth on this 3 km (2-mile) loop.

Green Trail – Kandersteg

With points of interest along the way such as the famous Marienkirche or the ski jumps in the Nordic Arena, there is plenty to see on this moderately challenging trail. Covering 7 km (4.3 miles), cross-country skiers are also rewarded with some decent descents after some energetic climbs. This trail includes winter sunshine and forest shade. 

“Läger Trail” – Engstligenalp, Adelboden

The largest plateau in the western Swiss Alps is snow-sure and extensive, offering perfect conditions for some relaxing cross-country skiing up on Engstligenalp. Lying at the foot of Wildstrubel, this 8 km (5-mile) trails passes glacial boulders between late autumn and spring, making this an impressive high-altitude track high above Adelboden.

“Boden Trail” – Adelboden

Cross-country skiing in Adelboden not only reveals nature in all its glory but also takes in the home of downhill skiing in Adelboden. This village trail runs below the Ski World Cup finish slope on the legendary Chuenisbärgli. The tracks across the valley floor also take cross-country skiers past farms and bridges across the Engstligenbach stream.