Vom Gasteretal (Selden) | Alpinism | Swiss Alpine Club SAC

Unterstütze den SAC Jetzt spenden

Vom Gasteretal (Selden) (Normal route) Mutthornhütte SAC 2901 m

Difficulty

F
Ascent

5–6 h, 1380 m

A shorter ascent than that from Stechelberg, but just as beautiful and even more remote. The Gasteretal is probably one of the wildest and most impressive valleys in Switzerland. Barely developed, no hydroelectric dams tarnish the landscape here. Steep rocks and flanks on either side add spice to the wild feel of this valley. In its furthest depths, the incredible Kanderfirn glacier spills its waters over a great step. This long narrow glacier, which leads to the Mutthorn, is nestled between the Petersgrat and the Blüemlisalp massif. This impressive backdrop has even served various film productions. Certainly, these two alternative hut ascents - from Stechelberg over the Tschingelfirn, and from Kandersteg over the Kanderfirn, connect one of the most pristine stretches of land in Switzerland, and lie in the heart of the Bernese Alps.

Flood plain behind Heimritz. In the background Balmhorn and Altels. © Marco Bomio

On the new hut trail below the glacier. (07/2019) © Toni Brunner

The passage to the glacier. (07/2019) © Toni Brunner

On the Kanderfirn. Mutthorn in the background (centre). (07/2019) © Toni Brunner

On the Kanderfirn (09/2015) © Marco Bomio

Route description

Selden - P. 2411

From Selden (1537 m) follow the broad trail to Heimritz and continue along the marked mountain trail, which crosses the Kander river at P. 1724. At about 1750 m follow the path to the north and direction northeast up the steep slope. At 2170 m, take the new path north towards Kanderfirn. One follows the new, marked track and reaches the southernmost arm of the glacier stream. To the northeast until one can enter the glacier at approx. 2300 m.

Old trail ca. 1750 m - P. 2411 - Kanderfirn

The old trail ran along the southern side of the valley over an old lateral moraine and a steep rocky step over P. 2411 to Kanderfirn.

Kanderfirn - Mutthornhütte

Join the Kanderfirn glacier at a suitable location (about 2430 m) and climb over the gently undulating ice in a northeast direction, heading for the S-spur of the Mutthorn. The hut can be reached from the glacier's edge in a few minutes over rocky screes.