- 8:00 h
- 15.72 km
- 1,500 m
- 1,466 m
- 1,018 m
- 2,484 m
- 1,466 m
- Start: Ausserberg train station
- Destination: Ausserberg train station
You reach the well isolated valley called "Baltschiedertal" by the historical water channel "Niwärch" which dates from 1370. From there, the path to the beginning of the Via Ferrata is well signposted (white-blue-white signs). The route leads you above steep rocks, grassy parts and an impressive tor to the Wiwanni lodge. The route is situated in a nature reserve and the UNESCO world heritage Jungfrau-Aletsch Region. The tour is only recommended if the weather is fine. At the beginning of summer, some snow can be remaining from the winter months.
Good to know
Pavements
Best to visit
Directions
From Ausserberg railway station, follow the Niwärch “bisse” (irrigation channel) into the Baltschieder valley (Baltschiedertal). After about two hours of hiking and a stream crossing, an alpine trail marked white-blue-white leads up steep, rocky slopes to the start of the via ferrata.
The ascent begins with a steep climb, steps in the rock and some couloirs, and then a rock pillar – worth a stop for photos. This is followed by a very exposed passage in a cleft, then some boulders and a grassy ridge before the climb to the Wiwannihütte. For the descent, follow the trail marked white-red-white to Grieläger and then across the forest as far as the avalanche prevention barriers. Alternatively you can take the long and challenging route via “Nasenlöcher”, but this is recommended only for climbers taking two days for the trip. This thrilling descent requires certain alpine experience, a head torch, and climbing equipment including rope and carabiners.
Tour information
Loop Road
Stop at an Inn
Equipment
Directions & Parking facilities
Additional information
Literature
Eugen E. Hüsler, Daniel Anker : Die Klettersteige der Schweiz
Author´s Tip / Recommendation of the author
Safety guidelines
Weather conditions: before setting off to tackle a via ferrata, it is important to check the weather forecast. Bad conditions can make climbing dangerous – particularly in stormy weather.
Rockfalls: because of the risk of falling rocks – usually caused by climbers higher up or by animals – all climbers are strongly advised to wear a helmet.
Safety: always leave sufficient distance between yourself and the climber ahead. There should never be more than one person between two anchor points.
Map
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