Eiger Trail - a sign on the side of a road that says eiger trail
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Eiger Trail

4.7
·150 reviews·Grindelwald, Switzerland

Hike beneath the legendary Eiger North Face, experiencing breathtaking alpine panoramas on this iconic Swiss trail.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late June - Early October

Snow-free trails, pleasant temps

CrowdMedium
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Eiger Trail - a sign on the side of a road that says eiger trail

Eiger Trail

Best Time

Late June - Early October

Snow-free trails, pleasant temps

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hike beneath the legendary Eiger North Face, experiencing breathtaking alpine panoramas on this iconic Swiss trail.

4.7
(150 reviews)

"Truly incredible. Love how the weather changes along the route, too. A magical place."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Trail Conditions

Always verify trail status before heading out, especially early or late season .

Dress in Layers

Mountain weather is unpredictable; bring layers for warmth and rain protection .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Eiger North Face

Eiger North Face

Base of the mountain

Stand in awe beneath the legendary Eiger North Face, a truly iconic and imposing sight.

Panoramic Alpine Views

Panoramic Alpine Views

Along the trail

Soak in breathtaking vistas of surrounding peaks, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls.

Alpine Meadows & Wildlife

Alpine Meadows & Wildlife

Trailside

Wander through charming alpine meadows and keep an eye out for grazing cows.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

The Eiger Trail is best tackled when snow has cleared, typically from late June to early October. Check local conditions before you go, as early or late season snow can impact accessibility. Early mornings offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making for a more serene experience.

Gear Up for the Alps

While not overly technical, sturdy hiking boots are a must for the Eiger Trail's downhill sections.Reddit Layers are key, as mountain weather can change rapidly, even in summer.Instagram Consider trekking poles for added stability and to ease the strain on your knees.TikTok

Best Times

When
Late June - Early October
Why
Snow-free trails, pleasant temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Early Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler air
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Eiger Streamline 35 WS✨ Fitur: - Kompartemen utama - 2 saku samping - 1 saku tutup atas - Tali kompresi samping - Pengikat trekking pole - Tali dada - Tali di bagian pinggang - FitLight Backsystem adalah teknologi backsystem dengan frame aluminum yang memberikan kenyamanan saat melakukan kegiatan hiking dengan menyediakan sirkulasi udara yang lebih baik. Dapatkan carrier ini di Eiger Store Pemalan...
@eiger.pemalang
14.3K likes • 470.6K views

Check Trail Conditions

Always verify trail status before heading out, especially early or late season.Reddit

Dress in Layers

Mountain weather is unpredictable; bring layers for warmth and rain protection.Instagram

Hiking poles aren’t just for looks—they help with balance, reduce impact, and make tough trails easier. Here’s how to actually use them right. 🥾💪 #HikingTips #TrekkingPoles #TrailSmarts #OutdoorGear
@outdoor.devin
13.9K likes • 271K views
. . . The Eiger Trail is a beautiful hiking route located in the Swiss Alps. It allows hikers to get close to the north face of the Eiger mountain. The closer you get to the mountain, the colder it gets so I recommend grabbing a jacket, even in the summertime. I didn’t and it was a big regret haha 🥶 The trail begins at Alpiglen and ends at Eigergletscher. The whole route is around 6 kilometers lo...
pierogisandjalapenos
51 likes • 1.9K views

Trekking Poles Recommended

Helpful for balance and reducing knee impact on downhill sections.TikTokReddit

Start Early for Fewer Crowds

Beat the midday rush for a more peaceful hiking experience.

EIGER TRAIL 🏃🏻‍♀️ 23km - 1340m+ 📍 Grindelwald (Swiss Alps🇨🇭) 🏁 Inicio/fin: Camping Gletscherdorf 🔄 Circular Ruta impresionante e imprescindible si estás en Grindelwald. El inicio atraviesa un sendero precioso con vistas continuas hasta llegar a la base del Eiger, donde te espera su imponente y famosa cara Norte. El recorrido se hace aún más especial porque caminarás bajo la majestuosa par...
life_ontrails
199 likes • 3.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Trail Conditions

Always verify trail status before heading out, especially early or late season.Reddit

Dress in Layers

Mountain weather is unpredictable; bring layers for warmth and rain protection.Instagram

Trekking Poles Recommended

Helpful for balance and reducing knee impact on downhill sections.TikTokReddit

Start Early for Fewer Crowds

Beat the midday rush for a more peaceful hiking experience.

Bring Snacks & Water

Limited services on the trail; pack essentials for your hike.

What Travellers Say

4.7
(150 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Eiger Trail for its breathtaking views of the iconic Eiger North Face and surrounding Alps. The mostly downhill route from Eigergletscher to Alpiglen is considered manageable, though some find it tough on the knees. The opportunity to see grazing cows and experience changing mountain weather adds to its charm.

"Our first hike in Switzerland was the Eiger Trail, and it was such a memorable experience! We went in the 2nd week of July and although the weather was so-so (spitting rain on and off), the views were still amazing.

The trail itself is long but easy to manage, mostly going downhill without being too steep. Along the way, there are plenty of viewpoints to stop and take in the scenery, and we even came across cows walking freely which made the hike extra special. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of the Eiger peak during your hike—such a breathtaking sight!

Highly recommend this trail for a scenic and enjoyable hike."

Erica DP

"Fantastic, get the cable car up to eigergleitscher and return from alpinglen and with half pass is only 25chf. The trail is pretty tough on the knees and joints with the steeper down hill sections at the end, but with the altitude coming up the other way would be a tough ask. Some lovely views out over the valley as you come down."

Russell King

"I love this trail so much, I want to go back just to do it again! Truly incredible. Love how the weather changes along the route, too. A magical place."

Alister

What People Like

Spectacular Eiger North Face views
Manageable downhill hike
Charming alpine scenery

What People Dislike

Can be tough on knees
Weather can change quickly

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Eiger Trail is accessible from Grindelwald. You can take a gondola from Grindelwald Terminal to Eigergletscher station, which is a common starting point.Instagram Alternatively, you can start from Alpiglen station and hike up to Eigergletscher for a different perspective.InstagramReddit

Many hikers prefer to start at Eigergletscher station and hike down to Alpiglen, as this route is predominantly downhill and offers stunning views of the North Face.Instagram+1 Starting from Alpiglen and hiking up is also an option for a more challenging ascent.

Yes, the Jungfrau Railway network provides excellent access. Gondolas and trains connect Grindelwald to both Eigergletscher and Alpiglen stations, making it easy to reach the trailheads.Instagram

You can hike the Eiger Trail in reverse, starting from Alpiglen and heading towards Eigergletscher. This will involve a more significant uphill climb but still offers incredible scenery.

If you're driving, you can park at Grindelwald Terminal and take the gondola up to Eigergletscher. Parking availability and fees should be checked in advance.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the trail itself is free to access, you will need to purchase tickets for the gondola or train to reach the starting points like Eigergletscher or Alpiglen.Instagram A Swiss Half Fare Card can offer significant savings on these transport tickets.Reddit

The gondolas and trains to Eigergletscher and Alpiglen operate on regular schedules, typically from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the specific operating hours for the Jungfrau Railway and Grindelwald-Firstbahn for the day of your visit.

No, the Eiger Trail itself is a public hiking path and does not have an entrance fee. Your costs will be associated with transportation to the trailheads.

A Swiss Travel Pass often covers the journey to Grindelwald and sometimes includes discounts on mountain railways and cable cars. Check the specific coverage of your pass for the Jungfrau region.

There are no specific 'Eiger Trail tickets.' You purchase tickets for the mountain transport to get you to the trail's start or from its end.

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The Eiger Trail is generally considered moderate. While mostly downhill from Eigergletscher to Alpiglen, some sections can be steep and tough on the knees.Reddit It's not overly exposed or technically challenging, making it accessible for most hikers with good fitness.

The hike from Eigergletscher to Alpiglen is approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) and typically takes about 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos.Instagram

Sturdy hiking boots are essential. Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing and bring layers, including a waterproof jacket, as weather can change quickly.Instagram A hat and sunglasses are also recommended.

Restrooms are available at the Eigergletscher and Alpiglen stations. There are also restaurants at these stations where you can rest and refuel. Limited facilities exist directly on the trail itself.

The Eiger Trail can be suitable for children who are accustomed to hiking. The downhill nature makes it manageable, but younger children might find the distance or steeper sections challenging. Parental supervision is always advised.

📸 📸 Photography

Every turn offers a postcard-worthy view! Key spots include directly beneath the imposing Eiger North Face, viewpoints overlooking the Grindelwald valley, and areas with wildflowers or grazing cows.Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and flattering illumination for the mountains and valleys. Golden hour can be particularly magical.

A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the stunning scenery. However, if you want to capture the vastness and detail, a camera with a good zoom lens or a wide-angle lens can be beneficial.

There are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use on the Eiger Trail. However, always be mindful of other hikers and avoid blocking the path.

Expect epic shots of the Eiger's North Face, sweeping panoramas of the Bernese Alps, close-ups of alpine flora and fauna, and charming village views from above.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Eiger Trail can be a fantastic adventure for families, especially if you choose the downhill route from Eigergletscher to Alpiglen. The relatively short distance (about 6 km) and the novelty of walking beneath the massive Eiger North Face can keep children engaged. Encourage them to look for cows grazing in the meadows, which is often a highlight for younger visitors.Reddit

Key tips for families: Ensure children have comfortable, well-fitting hiking shoes. Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as well as layers for changing weather. Consider using trekking poles for kids who are steady on their feet, as they can help with balance on steeper sections. The gondola ride up to Eigergletscher is also an exciting part of the experience for kids.

💰 Budget Travelers

To make the Eiger Trail more budget-friendly, consider purchasing a Swiss Half Fare Card before your trip. This card offers a 50% discount on most public transport in Switzerland, including the gondolas and trains to the Eiger Trail trailheads.Reddit If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, check its coverage for mountain excursions, as it may include these journeys or offer discounts.

Pack your own lunch and snacks from a local supermarket in Grindelwald rather than relying on the restaurants at the stations. This can significantly reduce your daily expenses. The trail itself is free, so your main costs will be transportation and food. Hiking during the shoulder seasons (late June or early October) might also offer slightly lower accommodation prices in the region.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Eiger Trail is a photographer's dream, offering dramatic landscapes and iconic mountain vistas. Focus on capturing the scale of the Eiger North Face by including hikers or other elements for perspective. The interplay of light and shadow on the mountain throughout the day creates constantly changing photographic opportunities.Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide stunning light for your shots. Don't forget to capture the details: the textures of the rock, the vibrant alpine flowers, and the charming Swiss cows often seen along the path.Reddit A wide-angle lens is excellent for sweeping panoramas, while a telephoto lens can bring distant peaks closer. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather, which can add dramatic skies to your photos.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majesty of the Eiger North Face

The Eiger North Face is a legendary and formidable wall of rock and ice that has challenged climbers for over a century. Standing at its base on the Eiger Trail offers a profound sense of scale and respect for this natural wonder. The trail provides unparalleled, up-close views of this iconic mountain face, allowing hikers to truly appreciate its grandeur and the history of mountaineering associated with it.Instagram+1 The sheer verticality and imposing presence are awe-inspiring, making it a focal point of the entire hike.

The Eiger Trail runs directly along the base of this famous north face, offering a unique perspective that few other trails can match. You'll be walking in the shadow of giants, with opportunities to learn about the history of the first ascents and the dangers faced by climbers. The trail is designed to bring you as close as safely possible to the mountain's base, providing dramatic photo opportunities and a deep connection to the alpine environment.Instagram+1

While the trail is not technically difficult, the sheer presence of the Eiger North Face can be quite humbling. It’s a reminder of nature’s power and beauty, and a highlight that distinguishes the Eiger Trail from many other alpine hikes. The feeling of walking beneath such a renowned natural landmark is an experience that stays with visitors long after they've descended.

Navigating the Eiger Trail: Route and Difficulty

The most popular route for the Eiger Trail is the descent from Eigergletscher station down to Alpiglen station. This 6 km (3.7 miles) section is predominantly downhill, making it manageable for many hikers, though it can be tough on the knees.Reddit The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked, ensuring a straightforward navigation experience.

While often described as moderate, the trail's difficulty can be influenced by personal fitness and the condition of the path. The downhill sections can be steep, and hikers are advised to wear sturdy footwear to prevent slips and reduce impact.TikTokReddit The total elevation change is significant, with a descent of around 700 meters (2,300 feet).

For those seeking a longer or more challenging hike, it's possible to combine the Eiger Trail with other routes. Some hikers opt to start at Alpiglen and ascend to Eigergletscher, or to extend their journey to Kleine Scheidegg. The Eiger Trail Ultra and UTMB Eiger events highlight the trail's potential for endurance challenges, though for recreational hikers, the standard route offers a rewarding experience without extreme exertion.TikTok

Essential Gear for Your Eiger Hike

Proper gear is crucial for enjoying the Eiger Trail comfortably and safely. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are paramount, especially for the downhill stretches that can be hard on your joints.Reddit Many hikers also find trekking poles invaluable for maintaining balance, reducing impact on knees, and providing extra stability on uneven terrain.TikTok

Given the variable alpine weather, layering your clothing is key. Pack moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly, and sudden rain showers are common.Instagram A hat and gloves can also be beneficial.

Beyond footwear and clothing, remember to carry sufficient water and snacks. While there are facilities at the start and end stations, services directly on the trail are limited. A small backpack to carry these essentials, along with a first-aid kit and a map or GPS device, will ensure you're well-prepared for your adventure on the Eiger hiking trail.TikTok

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