Descending from the Niederhorn to Waldegg in the Bernese Oberland 

Niederhorn-Waldegg: the facts

• Hiking time: 3h00
• Difficulty: moderate
• Elevation: 1202 – 2056 m
• Distance: 8.4 km
• Terrain: meadows, forests
• Region: Lake Thun (Bernese Oberland)

About this trail

This wonderful route starts off at the Güggisgrat, a narrow ridge offering views over the Justis valley on the left, and a breathtaking panorama of Lake Thun, Blüemlisalp, Stockhorn, Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau and Niesen on the right.

This high-alpine landscape consists of rocks and conifer trees, and you may even encounter wild goats and chamois. After having passed the Gemmenalphorn, you will walk through mountain meadows and, later on, through forests and grasslands, until you reach the village of Waldegg through a quiet asphalt road.

Note that some deep ravines will be passed between the Niederhorn and the Gemmenalphorn. Under normal circumstances, this route isn’t dangerous, but you should avoid it when rain, snow or fierce winds are expected.

Directions and map

How to reach the Niederhorn

The Niederhorn can be reached by cable car from Beatenberg. You will reach Beatenberg either by bus or car from Interlaken, or by a funicular from Beatenbucht. Beatenbucht can be reached by bus, car, and boat from Interlaken or Thun.

How to travel back from Waldegg

From Waldegg, a bus takes you to Beatenberg or Interlaken.

The hiking route

From the Niederhorn, follow the signs to the Gemmenalphorn until approximately 500 m (1,600 ft) before the Gemmenalphorn. Turn right over here to ‘Beatenberg/Waldegg’. When the weather conditions are clear, you may want to climb the Gemmenalphorn first for an even wider view.

After Oberberg (consisting of only a few stables), follow signs to Waldegg through Chüematte. Then keep following the signs to Waldegg.

Niederhorn-Waldegg trail on a map