From Eggenschwand (Kandersteg) through Gasteretal | Mountain hiking | Swiss Alpine Club SAC
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From Eggenschwand (Kandersteg) through Gasteretal (Normal route) Balmhornhütte SAC 1956 m

  • Difficulty
    T3
  • Ascent
    1:30–2 h, 820 m

Very interesting, sometimes exposed path, supplemented with wooden stairs and secured by cables and poles. Different lengths of approach depending on starting point; from Hotel Waldhaus it is also possible for the less conditioned hiker.

Route description

Waldhus - Balmhornhütte
From the Hotel Waldhaus, follow the wide path SE to P. 1366 (clearing in the Gastereholz forest). A wood-carved signpost directs you to the foot of the steep north-facing valley wall. Zigzag up the partially exposed path and traverse over to the grass/scree basin of Wildelsige. Cross several glacial streams and a final old moraine to reach the hut, which is idyllically situated on the lowest bastion of the Wildelsiggrat.
Variant 1: from Eggeschwand
From Eggenschwand follow the mountain road through the Chluse to Hotel Waldhaus in the Gasteretal (1 hr). The hotel can also be reached by private car on the toll road with timed one-way traffic. A bus also runs from Kandersteg to the Gasteretal in summer and autumn.
Variant 2: Start in Kandersteg
If starting from Kandersteg, follow the marked hiking trail first on the western bank of the Kander (river), then on the eastern bank to Eggeschwand.

Additional information

Departure point

Gasteretal, Waldhaus (1351 m)

Busbetrieb nur im Sommerhalbjahr.

Time

Approach from Eggeschwand +50 mins. Approach from Kandersteg train station an extra 30 mins.

Difficulty / Material

The approach should be snow free. Sometimes exposed. In late autumn often verglas.

Waypoints

Gasteretal, Waldhaus (1351 m)

Alternative starting point.

Kandersteg, train station (1170 m)

Alternative starting point.

Author

Bernhard Senn

Bernhard Senn is a physiotherapist specializing in workplace ergonomics and workplace health promotion. Bernhard has been an SAC author since 2013 and will often be found 'out and about' in the mountains; whether with rock gear, skis, mountain bike or paraglider.

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