125 Years of the Grindelwald Mountain Guides Association
An Anniversary with Character and Ice Axes
On February 6, 2023, the Grindelwald Mountain Guides Association celebrated its 125th anniversary. To mark the occasion, a symbolic project was launched: a specially forged ice axe accompanied numerous mountain tours by association members throughout 2023.
The so-called anniversary ice axe comes from the workshop of Ruedi Bhend, an honorary member of the association and a long-time blacksmith in Grindelwald. For over 50 years, Bhend has been producing the world-renowned Bhend ice axe: a traditional, functional tool known among alpinists for its quality and reliability.
The classic ice axe has always been considered an essential tool in alpine terrain: as a third leg, anchor point, and tool for snow, ice, and steep traverses. It played a central role in the history of mountaineering, including in the first ascents of the 19th century.
#IceAxeOnTour
During the anniversary year, the Bhend ice axe was carried by mountain guides on various tours. Each use was documented with a photo, a brief tour report, and a date. The result is a tour chronicle that showcases the diversity of the profession and the connection to the region.
All reports were published under the hashtag #IceAxeOnTour and compiled on the website.
Conclusion on November 18, 2023
The anniversary year concluded with the delegates' meeting of the Swiss Mountain Guides Association in Grindelwald on November 18, 2023. On the same day, a public mountain guide festival took place, serving as a meeting point for association members, partners, and the local community.
125 years after its founding, the association continues to demonstrate a strong connection between tradition, practice, and professional identity.