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My tips about the Bachalpsee-Grosse Scheidegg vs. Bort/Waldspitz hikes

Short summary – read this first

A traveler shares their experience about hiking from First to Bachalpsee and returning to Grindelwald by bus, noting it's great for kids with stunning views. They mention carrying lunch for a picnic at Bachalpsee and suggest arriving early for the last bus back to Grindelwald.

Key takeaways:
  • Always pack a lunch for a beautiful picnic at Bachalpsee with great views.
  • The trail from Bachalpsee to Grosse Scheidegg is easier and very scenic for families with children.
  • Be cautious of the steep switchbacks on the alternate Flower Trail and consider if it’s suitable for your knees.
  • Consider visiting the alpine garden at Schynige Platte if you're interested in gardens.
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  • Old hiker
    Participant
    2 posts
    21 February 2026 at 16:31:45 #2795719

    I’m chiming in 7 years too late in response to the 2019 post asking whether the route from First to Bachalpsee (https://www.myswissalps.com/blog/hike-bachsee/) to Grosse Scheidegg and returning to Grindelwald by bus was suitable for children. Yes, it’s perfect! If you carry lunch, grab a bench at Bachalpsee and enjoy the breathtaking views. Otherwise, you can eat at First or Grosse Scheidegg.

    One of the commenters responding to the 2019 post suggested an alternate route: the “Flower Trail” through Waldspitz and Bort, and back to First.  I took that route about 30 years ago, lured by the promise of an alpine garden. If you value your knees or are traveling with children, be forewarned the switchbacks are steep and annoying.  The alpine garden, at least then, was unremarkable.  (If you’re into alpine gardens, consider the garden at Schynige Platte: https://www.myswissalps.com/activity/schynige-platte/

    By all means, if you’re hiking with kids, take the open and beautifully scenic path from Bachalpsee to Grosse Scheidegg.  Just be sure to arrive in time for the last bus back to Grindelwald!

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  • Annika
    Moderator
    7369 posts
    Reply 1 of 1 • 22 February 2026 at 16:13:28 #2795732

    Hi Old hiker!

    Thanks so much for taking the time to share your experience. Yes, the trail from First to Bachalpsee is very doable for kids, and the views are great! Glad to hear you enjoyed the further section to Grosse Scheidegg as well. It’s usually quieter there than around the Bachalpsee, which adds to the hike’s variety.

    The more challenging routes can be rewarding, too, but it’s good to be warned about altitude differences. Thanks for bringing that up for anyone considering the Bord/Waldspitz trail.

    Are you planning any further beautiful hikes in Switzerland?

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