Posted by The Bernese Oberland is one of the best hiking regions in Switzerland. Nowhere else do high alpine peaks, green valleys, waterfalls, lakes and traditional mountain villages come together so compactly. Hiking here is possible for almost everyone: from easy panoramic walks to demanding mountain tours at high altitude.
This guide focuses on hiking in the Bernese Oberland for tourists. It explains where the best hiking areas are, which trails are suitable for beginners, families or experienced hikers, and how to combine hiking with cable cars, cog railways and lakes. All information is practical, easy to read and designed for trip planning.
y the Bernese Oberland is Perfect for Hiking
Hiking in the Bernese Oberland is special for several reasons. First, the landscape is extremely varied. Within a short distance you can hike above glaciers, through flower-filled alpine meadows, along turquoise lakes or past vertical rock walls.
Second, the infrastructure is excellent. Mountain railways, cable cars and cog railways make many high-altitude hikes accessible without long ascents. Well-marked trails, mountain huts and regular public transport connections provide safety and flexibility.
Third, the region offers hiking at different altitudes. This is especially useful when weather conditions change. If clouds cover the peaks, valley hikes are often still possible.
Well-known hiking bases include Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Wengen and Mürren.
Best Hiking Areas in the Bernese Oberland
Grindelwald and First Mountain
Grindelwald is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the Bernese Oberland. The village lies below the famous north faces of the Eiger and offers access to many well-maintained trails.
A highlight is the area around First Mountain. Cable cars take hikers up to First, where several famous trails start:
- First Cliff Walk – a short, easy walk with dramatic views
- Bachalpsee hike – an easy to moderate hike to one of the most photographed lakes in Switzerland
- Panoramic trails towards Waldspitz and Bort
Many hikes here are suitable for beginners and families, especially when using the cable car.
Lauterbrunnen Valley
The Lauterbrunnen Valley is known for its 72 waterfalls and steep rock walls. Hiking here feels very different from high alpine routes. Most trails are wide, relatively flat and ideal for relaxed walks.
Popular hikes include:
- Valley floor walk between Lauterbrunnen and Stechelberg
- Waterfall walks to Staubbach Falls
- Hikes to Trümmelbach Falls
The valley is also a good choice on days with unstable weather, as clouds often stay above the valley floor.
Mürren and the Schilthorn Area
Mürren is a car-free mountain village located on a sunny terrace above the Lauterbrunnen Valley. From here, hikers enjoy constant views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.
Many panoramic hikes start directly from the village, including routes towards Gimmelwald and Allmendhubel. More demanding hikers can continue towards the Schilthorn region.
The area around the Schilthorn offers high-altitude hiking with impressive views, but weather conditions can change quickly.
🎟️ Jungfraujoch Tickets – Book Early & Secure Your Spot
The Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is one of Switzerland’s most popular attractions.
Tickets often sell out quickly, especially in high season.
Booking online in advance is the safest and easiest option.
🚆 Train & cable car tickets (round trip)
Direct access to the Jungfraujoch – no planning stress.
👨🏫 Guided tours from Interlaken
Often only slightly more expensive than tickets alone – with expert guide included.
Wengen and Kleine Scheidegg
Wengen is another car-free village and an excellent base for hiking. Trails here often follow gentle slopes and offer constant mountain panoramas.
A major hiking hub is Kleine Scheidegg, reachable by cog railway. From here, hikers can choose between easy panoramic walks or more demanding mountain routes below the Eiger.
Easy Hikes for Beginners
The Bernese Oberland is not only for experienced hikers. Many easy trails are suitable for beginners or visitors who want relaxed walks rather than long mountain tours.
- Lauterbrunnen Valley floor walk
- First Cliff Walk and surrounding short trails
- Wengen to Allmend walks
- Lake Thun and Lake Brienz shore paths
These hikes are usually well-maintained, clearly signposted and do not require special equipment beyond good walking shoes.
Family-Friendly Hiking
Hiking with children is very popular in the Bernese Oberland. Many trails are short, safe and can be combined with playgrounds, mountain restaurants or lakes.
Good family hiking areas include:
- First Mountain near Grindelwald
- Allmendhubel above Mürren
- Lake Thun promenade walks
Cable cars and cog railways reduce long ascents, making hiking enjoyable for younger children.
Challenging Hikes and High Alpine Routes
For experienced hikers, the Bernese Oberland offers demanding routes at high altitude. These hikes often require good fitness, mountain experience and stable weather.
Examples include long routes around the Jungfrau region and alpine passes near the UNESCO-protected area:
Such hikes should only be attempted with proper preparation and equipment.
Hiking and Mountain Railways
One major advantage of hiking in the Bernese Oberland is the close connection between trails and mountain transport.
Important systems include:
- Harderbahn above Interlaken
- Various cable cars in Grindelwald and Mürren
- Cog railways to Kleine Scheidegg and Jungfraujoch
This makes it possible to plan flexible routes with ascent by train and descent on foot.
Best Time for Hiking in the Bernese Oberland
The main hiking season runs from June to October. Lower-altitude hikes are often possible earlier, while high alpine trails usually open in summer.
July and August offer the most stable conditions, but also the highest visitor numbers. June and September are often ideal for quieter hiking.
Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before starting a hike.
Practical Hiking Tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes
- Carry water and sun protection
- Check weather and trail information
- Use public transport where possible
- Respect nature and stay on marked paths
Conclusion
Hiking in the Bernese Oberland offers an exceptional variety of landscapes and trails. Whether you prefer easy valley walks, panoramic mountain paths or challenging alpine routes, the region provides excellent conditions.
Thanks to good infrastructure, clear signposting and stunning scenery, the Bernese Oberland remains one of the top hiking destinations in Switzerland and Europe.