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Schwarzhorn Via Ferrata

Sporty
1 day
Along the ridge to the summit
View of the Oberland lakes & Bernese 4000ers
Approximately 6 hours of hiking time

Season:

June October

Departure Times

08:00
First cable car station (Talstation)

Firstbahn valley station

Key info

Experienced mountain hiker
At least 1 day of via ferrata experience
At least 7 hours hiking with a backpack
Surefooted and free from vertigo

Overview

Recommended for: Anyone looking for the mountain beyond the postcard.

With every meter you climb, the panorama expands: You ascend to 2,928 m above sea level via narrow bridges and ladders.

Climb attached to a cable over ladders and rocks to the Schwarzhorn. The via ferrata leads along a spectacular ridge, offering magnificent views and requiring full concentration. After enjoying the summit, descend via the mountain hiking trail. A true adventure for those who feel at home at high altitudes.

Itinerary

Meeting points
Distance
10.5 km
Ascent
+900 m
Descent
-1100 m
Walking time
6-7 hrs
Arrival
30 min

After the equipment check at the First valley station, the gondola takes us up to First.

Approach
1.5 - 2 hr

A short descent, then the hike begins over green meadows to Chrinnenboden. The path becomes steeper, narrower, and rockier until we reach about 2,400 m above sea level. Here begins the Schwarzhorn via ferrata.

Via Ferrata
1.5 - 2 hr

We climb higher over ladders and rocky steps. The route leads along a ridge, at times airy, but always well equipped. Step by step, we climb up until we reach the Schwarzhorn at 2,928 m above sea level.

Summit

At the top, a magnificent panorama opens up with views of the Bernese peaks and Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Descent
2.5 - 3 hr

After a summit rest, the descent begins. Initially steep and challenging, the mountain path leads down along the south ridge. A panoramic trail continues to Grosse Scheidegg, from where the post bus takes us back to Grindelwald.

What's included

Guiding from a licenced mountain guide/ aspirant guide
Expenses of the mountain guide

Not included

Costs for cable cars and travel expenses of the guest
Snacks
Technical equipment
Costs for a taxi if needed (guests pay for the guide's share)

Pack list

Warm, functional clothing
Rain jacket
Rain pants
Mountaineering or hiking pants
Sunhat
Beanie or headband

Hiking boots or mountaineering boots

Backpack 20-25 l
Light gloves
Sunglasses (category 3 or 4)
Sunscreen lotion and lip balm (minimum factor 30, 50 better)
Thermos flask, drink bottle
GA or Half Fare Travelcard (if you have)
Camera and binoculars (optional)
Snacks

Weather info

General weather info

Weather can influence any tour, and a clear decision is often only possible on the day itself. We review conditions carefully and remain within our safety limits, and bad weather alone does not mean we have to stop.

Make sure we can reach you with current contact information in case your booking changes. Silence from us means your tour is still planned or the final call is not yet made. If we need to cancel, you can rebook, choose another activity, or get a full refund.

For detailed advice on how to prepare for (and enjoy!) bad weather days in Interlaken, check out our weather blog.

Meeting points

Meeting point

First cable car station (Talstation)

Dorfstrasse 187, 3818 Grindelwald
Meeting point
Activity location

Frequently asked questions

Articles

A via ferrata tour consists of planning, the approach, securing at the start, the ascent on the route itself, and the descent. It requires endurance, focus, and the right equipment. Depending on the tour, it can take 2 to 8 hours or more.
Full answer

Mürren to Gimmelwald offers thrills above the abyss. The Daubenhorn is an extreme test of strength and endurance. The via ferrata on the Eiger stands out with alpine atmosphere and a view of the north face. All three routes, three completely different experiences.
Full answer

Articles

You need fitness, some arm strength, sure-footedness, and must not have a fear of heights. Via ferrata sets are suitable only for a body weight (including backpack) of approximately 40 kg to 120 kg. Outside this range, additional safety measures are required.
Full answer

Articles

Stable weather is essential. Thunderstorms or strong winds can make a via ferrata extremely unsafe. Check the weather carefully before and during the tour.
Full answer

The main season for via ferratas in Switzerland is from May/June to September/October, depending on altitude. In winter, routes are too dangerous. Check current conditions before every tour.
Full answer

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