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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Snow-free trails, pleasant temps
Eiger Trail
Best Time
Snow-free trails, pleasant temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike beneath the legendary Eiger North Face, experiencing breathtaking alpine panoramas on this iconic Swiss trail.
"Truly incredible. Love how the weather changes along the route, too. A magical place."
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 .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Alpine Meadows & Wildlife
Trailside
Wander through charming alpine meadows and keep an eye out for grazing cows.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for the Alps
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Trekking Poles Recommended
Helpful for balance and reducing knee impact on downhill sections.
Start Early for Fewer Crowds
Beat the midday rush for a more peaceful hiking experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
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.
Trekking Poles Recommended
Helpful for balance and reducing knee impact on downhill sections.
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
Alternatively, you can start from Alpiglen station and hike up to Eigergletscher for a different perspective.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.
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.
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.
A Swiss Half Fare Card can offer significant savings on these transport tickets.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.
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.
Sturdy hiking boots are essential. Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing and bring layers, including a waterproof jacket, as weather can change quickly.
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.
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
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
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
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. 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 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.
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
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. 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.
Essential Gear for Your Eiger Hike
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. 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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit