The Hardergrat
One of the most unique ridge trails in the Alps
START: Interlaken
FINISH: Brienzer Rothorn Station, train down to Brienz
EFFORT: Difficult & Exposed
DISTANCE: 24km
VERTICAL: 3000m
The Hardergrat has become a classic, and for good reason. There are few geographic features this defined, and this perfect, with a trail so long. All with stunning views of the Jungfrau Region’s highest peaks; the Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau, Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn. It's not just a trail, it's a journey where you will have mental ups and downs, especially when you see all that stretches out ahead of you. It looks impossible, but it's not, it's just very, very long. Thanks to all its characteristics, when it's over you'll feel more like having climbed a route, or a big mountain. It's something that stays with you.
Of its 25km, about 18km are spent on a sharply defined grassy ridge, with significant, even airy, drops on both sides. In some places, 1500 meters of drop... It’s not for those afraid of exposure, and should absolutely never be attempted when wet. The route is not an official trail, but a trail does stay on the ridge the entire length and includes fixed cables at the more exposed sections. However, the steepest section is unprotected, and is a down climb if you are going west to east. Trekking poles are highly recommended.
An early start is required from Interlaken so as to make the Brienzer Rothorn’s last train down to Brienz. The trail is slow going and parties can take up to 10 or more hours to finish. Do not underestimate this route!
Check in with the Brienz Rothorn Bahn to see what time the last train departs, or, be prepared to descend 1700 meters after what has already been a big day.
For more photos and additional info, visit our Elevation Hardergrat Page, or the ALPSinsight Hardergrat Hiking Page and Hardergrat
TIP: Take enough water, there isn't any on the ridge from the Harderkulm station all the way to the Brienzer Rothorn. Also, study the SwissTopo map, there are bail out options that will get you down on either side. And remember, ice cream awaits at the finish.
An early start is necessary from Interlaken for many reasons; You'll never forget watching the sunrise on the Jungfrau group, cooler temps for the monster climb (less water needed), and to insure enough time to make the last train to Brienz.
As soon as you pass tree line, you are on the ridge proper and will stay on it for almost the entire route.
Krissy Moehl headed for the Brienzer Rothorn after passing the Suggiture at sunrise.
A very special summer day on the ridge where only the highest points were above the cloud line.
The trail literally stays on the ridge and often stretches out in front of you in the most intimidating ways.
At times, the ridge is airy and exposed with massive drops on both sides. In terrain like this you must be confident in your movement.
For the alpinists/trail runners, you'll find the ridge to be a remarkable feature to move on - as steep and crazy as it is, much of it is runnable...
Brody Leven with most of the ridge behind him.
Hiking the Hardergrat in Switzerland's 30° Magazine, by PatitucciPhoto/ALPSinsight.
Backpacker featured the Hardergrat, by PatitucciPhoto/ALPSinsight.
Switzerland's 30° Magazine Hardergrat feature, by PatitucciPhoto/ALPSinsight.
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Comments 237
My wife had reached out to Dan for some trail suggestions before our trip to Switzerland. We had a few ideas of where we wanted to run and bike and hike. Dan strongly suggested the Hardergrat. We took his word for it and were treated to one of the best runs we have ever experienced. The trail was challenging, but the views are your reward for hard work. I would recommend taking plenty of water and food and your best camera. Be sure that your quads are up for a full day as well. The Hardergrat will forever stand out in my mind as the quintessential Swiss mountain run. I hope to be back to run even further in the future.
What month did you do this? Is the end of May too early?
Author
Hi Alex,
End of May is likely too early – the north side of the ridge holds snow but it depends on the winter. I haven’t been home in over a month so am not a good resource right now.
Hi! I am trying to do this run/hike on my own at the end of June. Is this something ok to do solo, and will end of June be safe in terms of weather?
Also, if I hike/run, do you think it will still take around 10 hours?
Thank you!
Author
Hi Jess,
We don’t know anything about you so cannot say how it will be. Best to read the experiences of others and make your own decision.
Dan
Hi Jess,
Did you do this solo in the end?
Hi Kim!
This is Alex’s wife. Alex and I ran this trail in late July. We’re from the States so we’re not sure of the trail conditions and how early the Hardergrat typically clears off. I’m sure Dan or other locals from Interlaken could advise you if you’re wanting to go earlier.
Author
Kim, feel free to check in for a conditions report if you do end up coming early in the season. It looks depends on temperature and snow quantities.
Go somewhere that will capture your heart. The Jungfrau region of Switzerland has done just that for me. After our first trip to Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and Murren in 2011, my husband and I were determined to return on our next European adventure. This time around we had our hearts set to maximize our time on the miles of mountainous trails that the Jungfrau region provides. The Hardergrat trail is a trail runner’s paradise. We took the advice of Interlaken’s native adventurer, Dan Patitucci, and put our legs to work hiking/running along the Hardergrat ridge that overlooks Interlaken and Lake Brienz. It was a trail run we will never forget. The misty morning air broke as we climbed the ridge away from Harder Klum, and the views in every direction were nothing short of incredible- green pastures, snow-capped Swiss Alps, and crystal blue Lake Brienz. Add this trail to your “Must Do” list of adventures. Your heart will forever thank you.
Wow, very inspiring pictures and words. The Hardergrat has been on my list since I first saw Dan’s photos of it on the blog. I hope this sommer I’ll finally make it to Interlaken 🙂
Hi Dan,
I’m reading conflicting distances. If hiking from the base of Harder Klum (therefore not taking the train) and hiking up to Harder Klum and hiking all the way to the train station at Brienzer Rothorn is it 16 miles or 27 miles?
Author
Hi Giselle,
From Interlaken, the whole ridge to the train station is about 27 kilometers.
Hi, anyone knows a running group that goes to Hardergrat so I can join them? my pace in flat areas is 9- 9:30 minutes mile but I imagined that I will run that trail at 10:30 to 11 since I don’t have experience running on rocky trails. my email is doraflores1@hotmail.com. I am arriving to Geneva on June 18th 2016.
I am willing to pay to a running tour if I need to : )
Which way is “better”? Harderkulm to Brienzer Rothorn or the other way around?
Author
In my opinion, Harderkulm to the Rothorn. Seeing the ridge in this direction is more beautiful, and the train ride down at the end is a good way to end the day. It only gets better going east, it only gets more forested going west.
I always hike it from the Brienzerrothorn to the Harder Kulm. We ascend using the tram from Sorenberg which is much cheaper and opens earlier in the morning than the Brienzerrothorn Train. But you’ll have to get someone to drop you off or leave a car in Sorenberg.
The Harder Bahn is open until after 9pm making it nice to relax and enjoy an aprés or dinner on the Kulm watching the sunset on the Jungfrau before descending.
Does the train ride down at the end really cost 88 Swiss (CHF)? I find that hard to believe for a 1 hour 1 way ticket train from Rothorn to Brienz BRB. Are there any cheaper ways to take a train down the mountain or must I spend a lot of money for this hike?
Author
Hi Jack,
Welcome to Switzerland and Swiss prices! Yes, it costs a fortune, and agreed, it is absurd. But, that is the way it is here. You can check the Brienzer Rothorn site for ticket prices and times. Alternatively, you can walk down.
Dan
Hi Dan,
Thanks for the inspiring blog & pics. Regarding the 88 CHF train ride, I supposed I can use the Swiss Travel Pass to cover that?
Planning to buy tickets this weekend.
Yang from Singapore
Author
I’m not sure but I don’t think so as that train is private. You’ll have to check.
Can you take the Harderbahn funicular to the top hike to Rothorn and take the train down? When is the earliest Harderbahn funicular? Or did do you have to walk up?
Looking at hiking this in late September, are there any spots where a small one man tent would be able to be safely put? I would love to do this over two days and be able to capture the sunset, sunrise, and stars if possible.
Author
Hi Jacob, Yes, for sure there are camp spots throughout the route – just no water anywhere on the ridge.
My wife and I did most of this hike on September 2. We hiked from Interlaken to Blasenhubel and down to Oberreid. I am curious where you would have space to camp. We did hear a couple had camped on Augstmatthorn and there is a bit of room on the approach to Suggiture but that’s about it.
Unreal beauty! Thank thank you for the tip, we did it on my bday and it was the best celebration ever! Breathtaking views, redefining what “epic” really means. Hardergrat is a real beast, beast that can’t be tamed, you just have to be as wild to go with it. Thank you for sharing this gem *
Author
This is so great to see. Thank you so much for the follow up. We are looking for other classics. Stay tuned.
Thanks for the info! I’m going to be there in a few days and watching the weather closely.
Thanks to seeing Dan’s amazing photos, we decided to do the ridge run (3 experienced racers). He’s not joking about giving yourself enough time and bringing plenty of water- on a 30 degree day, we were lucky to find a patch of lingering snow. It’s an awesome trail, and certainly one you don’t want to underestimate. Truely beautiful following the long spine with a view down to the blue water, and of course across to the higher summits too. Passing through the busy stations on either end remind that you are just above Interlaken, but the hours in between let you run wild and alone. Can’t wait to run it again! Thanks for the inspiration!
Hi Dan,
Great post. For weather condition, does the trail match interlaken’s weather in terms of rains? If not, which town do you think is closest?
I’m actually planning on going (alone) tomorrow and wanting to make sure it’s a good time.
I have done the O loop in Torres del Paine before and have run a few marathons. So I’m hoping I’ll be okay in terms of endurance.
Hope I hear from you 🙂
Author
I hope you get this in time! You are here in Interlaken now? Tomorrow’s weather should be perfect! Dry and cool, cold actually! Careful up there! It’s in perfect conditions. I’d love to know how it goes, please let me know. And yes, Interlaken’s forecast is best. Enjoy!!
The descent on the west side of Wytlouwithoren is particularly dangerous. Steep and lots of loose rock.
My god you are the best! Alright I shall go then 🙂
I’ll leave at 5am from downtown. Hopefully that’s early enough.
I’m assuming there is no option of getting a bus/train before one arrives at the trailhead.
Author
I just checked and the Brienzer Rothorn train is still running to get you down. But you’ll have to walk through Interlaken that early.
Its 2.5 hours up from the Harder Kulm funicular to the top. Faster if you are running it I suppose. Watch for spider webs in the dark.
Guys I went there alone at 4am and it was pitch black… even with my headlamp, I could not really see the trail well. Honestly I chickened out and came back to sleep 😛
I am going to go do part of it in the morning though. I guess the lesson learned is going alone at 3-4am is a bit of a bad idea.
Thanks a lot Dan and Pete.
I know what you mean. The trail is a little confusing at first. From the trail head there is one switchback and then you have a choice. We went to the right and followed the road up as far as it would go. I also recommend the Swiss Map app on your phone and a data plan. You can get a signal for most of the route on the trail. Even at the top.
Author
Today’s clouds are a bit of a problem as well. They are probably right on the ridge and you would have been in and out of them. Annoying. Tomorrow!?!?
Hi Dan
I’m visiting Interlaken from 31st May to 2nd June. I really wanna do this Hardergrat trail but I’ve just checked the webcam in Rothorn, there is still heavy snow. Is there any possibility that I can just hike from interlaken to Augstmatthorn? I don’t wanna miss the chance to this spectacular view! Thank you
Author
Hi Karina,
Conditions along some other sections of the ridge might not be too different from what you are seeing on the webcam. There’s still quite a bit of snow on the trails.
If you go, it’s a good idea to look at the map for options to descend or be comfortable turning back if you get into too much snow. There are a few steep trails to descend at various spots on the ridge, down to Lombachalp on the north side or a few options on the south side, but there are no other lifts/trains between the Harder Kulm and Rothorn stations.
We’re still waiting for things to get greener!
Hi!
Im planning to do this in a couple of weeks, propably not alone (trying to get friends along, not very successful atm;) unless it is raining do you still think it is poosible weather/climatewise? Also, I have done a bit of hiking/running/orienteering and trail running but am not really a hard core experienced alpine trail runner, is this still possible? Thanks, Viktoria
Author
It’s getting too late in the year to do the Hardergrat. Short days, slippery grass, and especially snow shit it down. I’d say it is not a good idea. You might still be able to up the Augstmatthorn from the Lombachalp on the north side. Otherwise, it’ll be there for next summer.
I was looking to go up the Augustmatterhorn and hike back to Harderkulm on Saturday (Oct. 20), or possibly up Harderkulm and bail out to Lombach. I think the days are getting too short to do the whole thing. It’s supposed to be sunny, think the conditions will be good enough for a sunrise start?
Author
The weather should be good for the weekend. But I don’t know how fast you move so it’s hard to say. I think a Interlaken to Augstmatthorn then down to Lombachalp should be fine. I don’t know what time the last bus is down though. It’ll be great up there, enjoy!
I’m hoping for advice…
My wife and I will be doing this hike next summer. We are in decent shape, but this is still a hard day. I’m thinking of starting on the east end and working my way west. The reason is that if we wanted to bail before finishing, we would already have done the sharper ridges and more exciting parts. Do any of you have advice on this? Is it a bad idea to take the early train and start on the east end? How far is it from train station to train station? Where would be some decent bail points be located if the entire distance becomes too long? Am I wrong that it’s more exciting on the eastern half of the hike?
Author
I think most people do the ridge east to west these days, and many even stay the night at the Brienzer Rothorn station, it’s a hotel – good idea… yes, the section from the east end to the Suggiture is the best part. Try to at least make it to the Augstmatthorn, then you can bail off north or south, although south is a long way down, but easy. There are many bail offs after the Tannhorn, so you’ll have options going west. Study the map!
Have fun,
Dan
The stations in Brienz are across the street from each other according to Google Streetview.
My wife and I did this hike in September from the west. If you start here you are in the tree for quite a while and we ran out of time to make it all the way even though we started at 4:30. We will do it again but we would either start at the east end or take the trail up from Niederreid. The trail comes up just to the west of Suggiture where the trees end. Suggiture is the peak to the west of Augstmatthorn. We had to bail at Blasenhubel and walk down to Oberreid. We are in good shape. Hope this helps
https://map.geo.admin.ch/?topic=swisstopo&lang=en&bgLayer=ch.swisstopo.pixelkarte-farbe&X=175752.00&Y=636890.00&zoom=7
The train stations in Brienz are across the street from each other. Check Google Streetview.
My wife and I did this hike in September. Even though we started very early we didn’t finish it. We would recommend taking the trail up from Niederreid which comes up just to the west of Suggiture. That way you miss the trees and get maximum Hardergrat hiking. The east end is also a very good option. Either way, as Dan always suggests. You should start early.
Do you have a box file for this route you can share?
Author
Hi Lucas, Here’s a link to my Strava page with the last time I did it this year. But we made it longer, and accessed the ridge in a different place. Where we entered the ridge line is where it starts getting good, and this line of ascent is very cool and direct – locals tip! After our access point we did the whole thing and then kept going to finish off the whole ridge. Strava has a bunch of versions of the whole thing. https://www.strava.com/activities/708663100
One last question. We are going to start on the east end and move west since the steep drop offs are on that side. I have no doubt that we will probably bail downhill on the south side since that’s the side the train starts, hence my car will be on that side. Any suggestions on ways to get back to my car?
Author
If you drop into the towns along the lake you can catch a train back to Brienz, or stick your thumb out, hitching here is usually successful pretty quickly. Just don’t smell too bad, the Swiss keep things clean 😉 But the train line is on that side of the lake so it makes it easy. If you have time, and the timing works out, you can even catch the boat ferry to Brienz, which lets off at the train station and is super fun, plus it allows a view of the whole Hardergrat from the lake, very cool after you’ve been up there.
Hi! Thanks for this great post! My husband and I are going to be in Interlakken for a few days in mid May. Do you think it will be possible to do this trail then? It sounds like it might still have snow and be impassable at that point?
Author
Hi Nikki, May is a tough one, it’s a maybe. Depends on how much snow we got in the winter and how much has melted off. Remember you can look up from the south and it can be totally snow free and green. But the north side, in May, can be completely different. It only takes one section of scary snow to stop you. Check in with me again when you are closer to the dates, if I’m around I’ll let you know what the conditions are. Overall though… have alternate plans! Use our Trips pages to help – there’s plenty to do but in May you will need to consider the snow and that huts won’t be open. No matter what – you’ll have fun.
Hi,
I am planning on camping along the trail, do you have a map or waypoints of potential sites which would be large enough to pitch a tent?
thanks,
Author
Hi Josh,
I don’t have anything like this, but you’ll find spots. Remember, there is no water up there and carrying a heavy pack will not be fun on the ridge.
I spent the night up at the top of Suggiture which has room for a one man tent but made for a long second day. You could probably fit a two man on the top of Augstmatthorn. Like mentioned there is no water so bring the extra weight slowed me down quite a bit.
The area east of Blasenhubel should have space on the north side of the trail (south side being a drop off).
Hi all
My girlfriend is considering to do this trail run in the coming summer. I am currently not sure if this might be an option for as well, since i am actually afraid of hights.
Can someone advise if this route is actually recommendable for people who are afraid of hights? Are there any extreme exposures? Are you passing any scarp resp. cliffs on this route? How dangerous is this route in general? Any chance to fall down?
For some feedback i would be very thankfull and i guess it would help me to decide to join her or not. I guess this decision would need to be done soon, since the route obviously requires a very good preperation and fitness 🙂
Thanks
Author
Hi Patrick, I’d say if you are uncomfortable with heights, do not continue east past the Augstmatthorn. It is very exposed, and yes, it has killed people when they slipped off the ridge. I have seen friends who are comfortable rock climbing get stressed. But, that first bit from Interlaken to Augstmatthorn and then down to Lombachalp is a great day on it’s own. // Dan
I agree with the Admin on this. The descent from Wytlouroihoren is steep and there is lots of shale. I took my time and still slipped here. I’m not saying don’t go this way. Just saying that care should be taken here.
Hi Dan,
What distance would you be looking at for the Interlaken to Lombachalp – would it work going the opposite way and try end up at restaurant top of interlaken for lunch before getting the train down?
Author
You can for sure do it that way but need to check bus times so you know what time you’ll be starting, and what time the last train goes down – which I think will be later than normal for 2017 as they have a new restaurant for dinner at the Harderkulm and the train will service it. You can also spend the night on the Lombachalp side. There is a cool new place called the Maizyt – https://www.hofmaiezyt.ch
hi there,
How far is the Interlaken to augstmatthorn hike? how long do you think it will roughly take. we are thinking of doing it in early may.
thanks,
Maria
Author
Early May is iffy for the Augstmatthorn, it really depends on how much snow we’ve had and how warm a spring it is. It will be possible, but potentially a lot of postholing in snow. It’s about 13km, 1700 meters gain, and slow going at times on a very rooty trail.
aaagh, reminiscing. My husband and I did this in Sept 2015, we took the steam train up from Brienz and started the hike around 10am (there is one train that gets there earlier on Sundays during the summer). We made it to Blasenhubel around 4:50pm, but it was getting pretty stormy over Augustmathorn, so we bailed out on the trail down to Oberried. We had decided to do the east to west route because there is overall more elevation drop instead of climb, thought it might be easier, and didn’t want to get stuck doing some of the really exposed stuff in the dark. I dream about going back again to conquer the whole beast…I’m not really a runner though, I think the surest way to finish it in one day is to take the steam train up, spend the night at the hotel and start early morning. If you have a Swiss travel pass, SBB day pass or half-fare card the train ride is only 16chf one way (at least when we went). Also, even if you don’t have gps I would recommend taking a bunch of screenshots of the map so you can see your possible bail out points. You’ll know where you’re at on the trail most of the time because of the signs.
our video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdtFQ5XnUi8&t=185s
some pictures https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10156582622695154&type=1&l=829423e4b5
Hi, this post inspired me to attempt part of this last year – it was a stunning day in August!
However I only went from Interlaken to just past the Augstmatthorn then turned back and came off the north side towards Habkern.
Some colleagues and friends of mine would like to go in June and would love to do as much of the ridge as possible from West to East without perhaps doing the very most exposed parts – i.e. over the Tannhorn.
Does this mean one needs to come off at Oberried or what is the ridge like between that bailout and the Ällgäu Lücke? Is it possible to come off at the Ällgäu Lücke on the south side instead and follow the trail to the Wasserfall Müllbach? Are any of the pictures above from this stretch?
Should this be safe enough in June?
Thank you very much for any help and once more for the beautiful post!
Author
The Tannhorn is the key to getting across, otherwise you’d have to drop off to the south before and then traverse east well below the crest of the ridge on the lower trail. If you went down to Brienz from there it would be okay, otherwise you have to go back up to the station. I’m traveling right now and can’t help more, but this Swiss map site is what I use.
Hey,
Thanks for the reply!
I think if we came down at Ällgäu Lücke to the south we would be happy finishing in Brienz and wouldn’t want to get back on to the ridge. I was just wondering what the ridge was like between the Blasenhubel and the Ällgäu Lücke and if it was one of the narrowest parts or not?
Many thanks for your help 🙂
Stephen
Stephen,
Admin would know for sure as he runs the route often but you might also look at the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdtFQ5XnUi8&t=185s which Ariel mentioned in a February 10, 2017 post. The signpost at Allgau Lucke is at 4:45 of the video I watched this video many times and they actually start at the Brienz end and descend at Blasenhubel. You can see for yourself what the ridge looks like. When I hiked this we descended at Blasenhubel but I did look at the trail ahead and it looked like most of the trail from Suggiture to Blasenhubel. Hope this helps
Hi, I’m going to be in Interlaken Thursday 20th April. I don’t have the time or fitness to walk this whole trail… but simply seeing the ridge and maybe walking along it for a short while seems like an opportunity I can’t miss. There’s lots of information online regarding the whole trial but nothing detailing a shorter circle. Also what re the chances the conditions will be suitable to go up there on the dates I’m there (I’ve heard summer is coming early in Switzerland this year?)
I managed to find a map with routes marked out but wanted to know if there was a particular route that I should avoid, or a particularly nice stretch.
http://www.juskuz.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/hardergratTopo-0077.jpg
I was thinking of doing a circle route from ringgenberg and back down, or up Harderkulm and back down to Ringgenberg, or HarderKulm and back down the other side to Habkern.
Thank you for your help in advance
Please feel free to email me if you prefer on 007pdesai@gmail.com
Author
Hi Pratyesh, You’re right, it has been warm and the snow is melting, but it’s still April so things can change quickly in either direction. Your best bet is to go up from Rinnggenberg via the Graaggetor Trail. This gains the ridge about 30 minutes from where the ridge gets interesting, just west of the Suggiture. But you will have to go down the same way, and likely will be in snow on the ridge itself. It’s 1200 meters up and quite steep. If you continue walking from the Harderkulm Station it is very long and uninteresting in the forest. You might also be able to access the ridge from Lombachalp, on the north side, but this will surely be snow and mud and still 90 minutes walking. April is a tough month! And, there really is no easy way. Have fun!
Hi! My husband and I are from Chicago and will be visiting Interlaken June 21-22 and I was hoping to do at least part of this trail. Do you have any recommendations for which spots we can get off at if we don’t do the entire trail?
Appreciate any recommendations you might have!
Author
You can read all about the Harder on our site, the info is all there, also links to the maps so you can see how to get of early.
My wife and I will be hiking this in September. We are starting on the east side and working our way west. Our plan is to start at the Brienzer Rothorn (train up) and end somewhere near Oberried to take the train back. I looked at the map and the routes show that much of the trail is not at the top of the ridge. The map (link above) shows the trail dipping below Briefenhorn and Tannhorn on the southern side. Should we ignore that part of the trail and stick to the top of the ridge? Every picture I see of this hike shows people staying on the ridge, not the side of the mountain.
My thought is that we stay at the top of the ridge from Brienzer Rothorn all the way till right before the Augstmatthorn where there’s a trail that leads south to Oberried. Is this a bad idea?
Author
There is only one trail on the ridge proper, and it primarily stays right on the crest. You’ll never drop off it. Some maps don’t show the whole trail as until last year it was not officially a through trail. Dropping off to Oberried is an option but it’s up to you.
If you look at the ridge going from east to west on the map, the trail often dips below the top of the ridge along the side of the mountain. Should we stay on that path, or stay on the ridge? We are looking at taking the train up on the east side and dropping down near oberried.
Hi, I am going to Switzerland next week and I would like to hike this trail. Do you know what the snow situations is at the moment? Any chance it will be walkable next week?
Thanks!
Jakub
How was the winter in Interlaken this year?? I will be there June 7th and want to do this trail for my birthday, is it walkable yet? will be very disappointed if there is still snow on the north ridge side 🙁
Thanks,
Andrew
Author
Hi Andrew, It should be, although I have been away for the last few weeks and am not sure how it is right now. A lot of snow fell a few days ago but in all likelihood it will be gone in the next days. In the mountains you never know… but it should go.
Hello, I’m looking to do this trail next weekend, probably on 27 may. Is it too wet still? Thanks.
Hi there,
My friends and I are visiting the area this weekend and are hoping to do Interlaken to Augstmatthorn (and possibly down to Lombachalp) on Saturday 27th- would this be possible in current conditions?
Thanks,
Emily
Author
I’ve been away and haven’t been up there in a few weeks – but looking up now it seems clear of snow, and it’s very warm this week. Odds are it’s fine.
Great, thanks!
Hello,
I love these pictures and this ridge.
I have seen a few pictures online of tents at Augstmatthorn or other peaks catching the sunrise etc. What are the rules on overnight stays in tents (obviously tents only, no cooking or anything like this).
Thanks,
S
I wanted to point out some webcams in the Interlaken region. This should give you an idea of the conditions in the area. http://www.interlaken.ch/en/information-and-journey-to-interlaken/live-cams.html
Hello! My husband and I are looking to hike this in late July. Planning on Interlaken to Brienz. Do you have to run part of it to make it in 10 hrs? Also, can you buy a one way ticket at the Rothron station down to Brienz at the finish, or should I reserve online? I must admit it looks a bit intimidating, but also very exciting!
Author
You can walk it to make the time. This is normal. And yes you can buy a one way ticket.
Hi !!! Do you think early October is a good timing for this hike? is it too crazy if i go by myself ?
Author
October could be perfect but see when the train stops. I don’t know you so I can’t say if you can do it solo…
Hi Dan,
Thank you for your attention to all these comments. It’s such a wealth of information. I’m heading in August 7-9 from Milan. I have no formal climbing/hiking experience, but have a marathoning background. Fitness will not be an issue, but I’m probably going to check my ego after watching the video Ariel posted and only do the Harder Kulm or Rinnggenberg to Augstmatthorn portion. I will likely be going solo as well. Couple quick questions:
– I’ll be staying in downtown Interlaken and will likely run over to Rinnggenberg at day break. How well marked is the Graaggetor Trail as far as most direct route to the ridge? May be a silly question, but can I just start heading up on the trail until I hit the ridge or do I need a formal map? Essentially, can I take a wrong turn that dead ends before the ridge and have to double back?
– Any precautions I need to plan for other than hydrating and sun…altitude, snakes, bears, etc. 😉
Thanks a lot. Can’t wait to check this area out.
Author
The Graaggetor is well marked and ends on the ridge, but you should have a map in case you need to bail.
HI there,
So what is the best season to hike herdergart? Is early October too late for this hike??
Author
All the info is on our site, but typically the season is June – October. Just check when the Brienzer Rothorn train stops running in October.
Thanks for this article, trip report, and answering all the questions. Also thanks to other contributors as well. Besides having a map for all the bailouts this was the only other way to prepare. I did the hike on 07/07/2017. Left Hotel Interlaken at 530am and arrived at the Rothorn Train Station at 330pm. 10 hours exactly with about 2.5 to 3 hours worth of breaks, I never once ran but I do have a great hiking pace. Lots of small breaks needed with all the up on this hot July day, eating lunch and enjoying some summits, and of course pulling out the camera every few minutes. One thing to add for my trip report was that yes, after the first and most prominent summit to me, Suggiture (my favorite), the conditions have to be dry and no heavy clouds or rain forecast for that day either. As long as you have that I felt 100% comfortable hiking all of the ridge and all the trails in and around the ridge too. I will do those anytime the weather is nice. EXCEPT for Tannhorn. One time is enough for me on Tannhorn. This is “the crux of the ridge” photo Dan has above. Its about 15 to 20 minutes of high nerves going down Tannhorn and is not for the faint of heart. When a small rock went off the side and I watched it rocket down it was the only time I felt any vertigo, but I snapped out of it fast and made it through no problems. Train ride down and boat ride had me back to Hotel Interlaken at 630pm and this is also because I just missed the 330pm train and had to wait an hour for the 430pm, last train for 2017 season is 540pm. Rating on 5 stars I give difficulty a 5 because of length and elevation gain, but on exposure I give it a 2 except again the Tannhorn has that 20 minute section I give a 4. Hope that helps some and again Thanks All! If your ever in Colorado I’d be happy to show you the best we have to offer!
Hi,
I am planning to do the shorter version ( climb up from lombachalp and hike down to harder kulm) as I only have a few hrs. Does this section have any steep and narrow trail areas with steep drop on either side.
Author
Nothing steep on this part, it’s just a long forested trail.
Hi,
Some of us are thinking of going on the hardergrat this sunday. Weather on friday seems wet and saturday is cloudy.
Do you think it would be ok by sunday?
What would you advise?
Author
The forecast changes all the time. See what it does Saturday and make the call. MeteoSwiss makes it look good for a go on Sunday. I know I’m going big that day somewhere else.
Hello there,
I’m in Interlaken for a few days and would love to do the Hardergrat or a part of that at least.
Since I’ve already hike to the harder kulm yesterday do you thing that The Graaggetor trail is a nice alternative to get to the ridge? I’ve seen that there’re the bus 102 that goes from Interlaken west to Ringgenberg but I don’t know which is the right stop to get off and find the trail. Otherwise is there a well marked trail from the harder kulm and how much time would it get to arrive on the ridge?
Today the weather doesn’t seem a good fit right? I hope it gets clearer in next few days!
Thank you in advance 🙂
Eliana
Author
Hi Eliana,
The Graaggetor is a great way to get on the ridge, and as a stand alone trail really special. You get off the bus at the main Ringgenberg stop and the trail is well marked right from the main road through town. The weather is a bit unstable these days, so an early start is necessary. The grass will be wet in weather like this so you need to be really heads up starting at the first steep descent from the Augstmatthorn. These aren’t ideal conditions, but you can at least go up to Augstmatthorn and then either turn around and go back, or drop north to Lombachalp and take the bust down.
Hey, I just wanted to say thank you, today we follow your advice and everything went well! For those who are reading The Graaggetor is really steep, it took us a little more than two hours because of the wet grass in some points and slippery rocks, but we did it! There were lots of people once we were up and it was very hot, take as much water as you can, really!
You have a beautiful country, I hope to come back soon!
Hopefully if the weather is fine we are doing the trift bridge on monday 😛
Again, thank you!
Eliana
Author
Elian, thank you for the follow up, I really appreciate that. It is fun to see how things go for people and I think it is of great value for others to see as well. Enjoy the Trift bridge!
Wow, what a journey! Linked this one with the Grindelwald to Interlaken route. Day 1: Grindelwald > First > Faulhorn > Schynige Platte > Interlaken and day 2 : The hardergrat. And I actually went up to Faulhorn the day before day 1 so lets just say my legs are a bit sore now 🙂 But hey, it is absolutely doable! Hardergrat is tough, steep and I would say that you need to be very fit but also technically excellent when it comes to trailrunning/scrambling. 4 main take aways and tips (all stated before but repetition is good) 1. start early 2. bring water 3. Do not attempt when wet 4. Bring a headlamp (I didn’t so I fumbled in the dark for about an hour). Other than that, remeber to stop, enjoy the view and silence. Thanks for sharing this route ALPSINSIGHT!
Hello,
Is the hike still approx 10 hours if I start at Harder Kulm and end up in Brienz Rothorn??
Author
It depends on how fast you hike. It’s different for everyone. Starting at Harderkulm will shorten it, but head’s up for last train down at Brienzer Rothorn with the later start.
We are looking at possibly coming over to try the Hardergrat around the last week of September. Is this traditionally a good time to climb or is it getting a bit late in the season? How is the weather around that time of year?
It looks like the last train leaves Rothorn at 2:28pm? Is that right or am I mis-reading the timetable? If so I’m assuming we may have to start around midnight the day before to allow a safe amount of time so we don’t miss the train.
Any other tips we should know before we look to book our trip?
Author
Fall can be the best time of the year in the Alps, when the weather is good, it’s great, but when it is bad it’s pretty bad. I’m not sure about the train times, best to check their website. For other trips, explore our site’s pages for the Jungfrau Region; Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald.
Just want to say thanks to Dan for putting up such great information. Despite living on the border to Switzerland, I never knew about this hike until I stumbled across this page six months ago.
Did the hike last Saturday, from downtown Interlaken to downtown Brienz. A little additional information:
– As expected, the hike was hot in August. But with a little intermittent cloud cover and some wind, it was bearable.
– The main trail from the Brienzer Rothorn down to Brienz was about as good as one could hope for from a little-used, 6,000 foot descent (except for one frustrating uphill section). If your knees are still in decent shape by the time you reach the Rothorn, it’s a cruise.
Can this trip be done in 2 days? If so, are there locations along the trail that you can wild camp? Ideally we would do this as a 1 day trek, but with 10K feet of elevation gain over the course of a day, it might be a bit of a tough push.
Hi,
So, were you able to wild camp somewhere along the trail?
Is wild camping actually allowed on Brienzergrat?
Author
Camping is not allowed on the ridge, and for good reasons… it is primarily a protected zone for wild life and the place would get trashed pretty quickly. It’s already happening on the Augstmatthorn where the Instagrammers spend the night. Apparently the Lombachalp owner is starting to scope the ridge and call in campers to the police.
Hi
I am in Interlaken and would like to do some uncovered part of hardgret on Monday. Is it possible after Saturday rain ?? I can’t do the whole so where should I start and end to return by 5 pm and see exposed part.
Regards
Kacy
Author
You might just go up from the backside, from Lombachalp. That is the easiest way to just see the best part.
Hi,
My wife and I will be in Interlaken on the 17th and are wanting to hike the Hardergrat from Harder Kulm to the Lambachalp bailout. Is this part of the trail still good to hike this time of year? Do you know how long this portion of the hike would be?
Thank You,
Wesley
Author
I’d think the time is 4-5 hours. It’s all on good trails so no exposure issues. Enjoy.
Hi,
I was hoping to hike the Hardergrat from Harder Klum to the Lambachalp bailout. Will this still be possible in the beginning of november?
Thank you
Author
It might be, it just depends on the weather at this point. There is a lot of snow right now on that north side.
Hi! I’m so captivated by this climb and the stunningly breathtaking views. I’m coming from Australia in early July 2018, want to do this so badly but not sure if it’ll be too challenging and too long. You mentioned bail out options, can I say reach the ridge, follow it for an hour or so and then return back down the way I came up? Would that still offer amazing views? We’ll be staying in Lausanne so it’s an hour or two to drive there, which makes for a long day, desperate to do this trail but won’t make the whole way or time duration by any means. Any advice would be greatly appreciated, thank you!
Author
Your best bet is to go up from the north side, from Lombachalp, then hike Augstmatthorn to Suggiture and back down. This is the easiest, and most popular, way to see the ridgeline.
Hey Annie,
I did an abbreviated version from the south side last August. I had no hiking/climbing experience, but like you said, had to see the views from the ridge. I’m also not all that great with heights and didn’t trust myself to venture west of Augstmatthorn…although next time I will.
I walked from downtown Interlaken to Ringgenberg and shot up on the Graaggetor Trail. If you’re staying in Interlaken just take the train over. I like to walk, but this was a time waster and kind of dumb of me in hindsight. I was deciding between heading up via Harder Kulm or Graaggetor and eventually landed on Graagetor because it sounded like it was less traveled and “touristy”. I didn’t see a single soul for the 3 or so hours it took me to get to the ridge. Was actually kind of cool. However, I was solo and swore I heard a roar at one point but chalked it up to my exhausted mind playing tricks on me. I think it’s considered steeper than some of the other paths up, and I needed multiple breaks, some after only 20-30 steps. Cardio wise, I’m a runner and in pretty good shape, but this thing kicked my butt in terms of leg strength.
I’d say it’s wooded about 2/3 of the way up. You get to traverse through a couple rock faces which is cool and then you hit the ridge. If I remember correctly, it was about an hour or so west to Augstmatthorn from there. Once I “summited” Augstmatthorn, I doubled back and went to Harder Kulm, which took about 2.5 hours I think, had a beer on the viewing deck and headed down in the train. Round trip about 8.5 hours with a walk from Interlaken, plenty of pictures, and hanging out taking in the scenery.
First time in the Alps and it absolutely blew my mind, but have to imagine even vets are impressed with what the ridge has to offer. Hope that helps if you end up staying around Interlaken.
Annie, I agree with Admin and Tony on this. Harder Kulm to where the trail from Ringgenberg comes up has trees on both sides for most of the route. You can’t really see too much until where the Ringgenberg trail comes up. Next time I go I will take this trail up.
Thank you so much Pete, Tony & Admin!! Really appreciate your responses and the time it took you to help me out. Looking so forwards to doing this. Thanks heaps 🙂
Hi there,
I’m hoping to do this hike at least sometime in my life!! I’m coming in March with my best friend but I’ve heard it’s still snowy/winter during that time. Is this trail still hike-able in mid-late March? Or are there any other great hikes that can be done during this time?
Thanks so much!
Author
Hi Annie, Huge apologies for the late response! Yes, March is much too early and the trail will not be possible! Most all mountain trails in the Alps will be covered in snow in March. You have to return in the summer months!
Hi! I want to hike hardergrat trail next year sometime in August or September, would either months be okay to hike this trail? I am a Filipino, I live in the Philippines. I have been hiking since 2015. I plan to hike this trail alone and so I am planning this really well. What would be your best advice for me hiking this alone? Thank you very much for your response.
Author
Hi Whitney,
August and September are typically ideal for hiking in Switzerland. The best advice is to carry plenty of water as you will not find any available along the way. Everything you need to know ahead is available on the site. Enjoy the hike.
Hi,
my girlfriend and me are planning to do this trail in the last weeks of june this summer. We are good runners but aren’t very experienced with hiking in the mountains, so is it recommended to stop in the half and decend via Blasenhubel to Oberreid? Or will we regret it that we didn’t finish it all the way?
I also read something about an expensive trainride (CHF88?) from Rothorn down to Brienz itself. That’s also a reason we are thinking to stop in the middle.
What would you recommend?
Thanks
Author
Hi Yannick,
The entire route is fantastic. Once up there, you may want to keep going, but it’s good to know you have the option to come down early if needed. Be sure to only do what you are comfortable doing that day. The ridge can be narrow and exposed which can be intimidating if you are not experienced in the mountains. If you want to make it a bit shorter, consider going up at the halfway and do the later section of the trail. You can always avoid the train by hiking down to Brienz, too.
I see most of the comments are a few years old. I’m going to be in the area in early August. Is this still a viable run/walk? I assume I’d need to schedule a few days in the area, in order to deal with weather fluctuations.
Author
Nothing has changed. But ya, plan for extra days in case of weather delays. Enjoy.
Hi everyone,
I am in Switzerland now and really want to do a little bit of this route, at least. Is it too early? Even if I just go a short part of the route?
Kellan
Author
Kellan, You can go onto the ridge from Harderkulm to the Augstmatthorn, but it’ll be snowy. After that point it’ll get too steep with the snow. You can also go directly up from Ringgenberg via the Graggetor Trail, check SwissTopo. Have fun, the weather is ideal.
Will it be possible to do the trail next week? Will there still be lots of snow? Also I would like the climb the Faulhorn starting from Axalp. Will this be possible without special equipment? I don’t mind stepping in snow for a few hours, but it has to be doable offcourse…Thanks
Author
I’m traveling and don’t know conditions, so can’t report in. Anyone else out there who can help?
Hello – I will be in Interlaken in about 3 weeks. We do not have time to hike the entire ridge, but is it possible to hike from Harderkulm up to the parts of the ridge, and then turn around and go back down to Harderkulm?
Thank you!
Hi can you advise what safety equipment is needed for this run/hike
I note there are sections with fixed ropes ?
Also how do you decide in the summer July /Aug /Sept whether the conditions are good for an attempt ?
Thanks
A
Hey Dan,
I am arriving to Interlaken tonight and am really interested in completing Hardgrat. I come from Banff, Alberta so I have lots of scrambling experience but have not completed a ridge like this one!
I am here for 3-4 days and was wondering how the snow as up there and if it would be possible if weather allows it to do this amazing hike.
Also, is it necessary to hike up at 3:00 AM or could I take the 8:10 trolley up?
Kindly,
Josh
Author
Hi Josh, I haven’t been in Interlaken the last few weeks, so I can’t provide a real report. You’ll have to see when you arrive. For sure you’ll be able to do it to Augstmatthirn.
Hi Dan
along the lines of all the previous… aiming to walk the ridge this Saturday. Weather forecast for Interlaken looks good at the moment, but I wonder if you have more insight to share, if you happened to be nearby in the past few days.
Also – would you recommend anything where to sleep the night before? Is there any hut in the mountain that would serve as a good starting point for the morning after?
Thanks a lot!
Kindly – Roberto
Author
Hi Roberto, Conditions are good at the moment – just head’s up for thunderstorms. There are so many hotels in Interlaken, it’s hard to point to any one. I’d say to try and be close the trailhead… Have fun, maybe I’ll see you up there.
Thanks for letting us know that the conditions are good at the moment!
Planning to do the entire trail this Saturday with a few friends!
Friday -> Spend the night at @ TCS Camping Interlaken and on Saturday -> Wake up at 4:00 AM so we can leave around 5 AM to make sure we catch the early sunrise.
Depending on the weather the final decision will be made tomorrow, is there somewhere I can check in with you for a quick update on the conditions?
Regards,
K
Author
Feel free to email me dan at patitucciphoto.com
So it sounds like from Augstmatthorn to Rothorn has about 5k elevation gain. Has anyone hiked it the other way (Rothorn to Augstmatthorn)? Seems like it would be a lot easier of a day. Unless the 5k elevation is gain as well as decent? I only have time to do part of the trail, and it sounds like the Augstmatthorn to Rothorn is the most scenic, but I’m considering doing Rothorn to Augstmatthorn since the elevation would be easier.
Author
Doing it east – west requires the train up from Brienz, so an early start is delayed. But you can stay at the Brienzer Rothorn Hotel at the station, and many do this. If you stop at Augstmatthorn, you still need to descend to Lombachalp and then get a bus out. East west also has a little advantage in that you go up the steepest and most exposed parts, which feels safer. Many prefer this. But, the classic way is certainly west to east for the views. With the few access trails to the ridge on the south side, there are plenty of route variations. Study the map!
Thanks for the info!
Would you happen to know if 300 meters is both gain and descent, or all gain?
Author
Hi Mary, I assume you mean 3000 meters – and it’s the total gain if you do the ridge.
Hi! My husband and I want to do this hike but we have two children who would be in backpack carriers. Is it possible to hike up to the ridge just to get the view and then go back down? Would that be worth it? Also how far is it to get up to the main ridge? Thanks!!! xx
Author
The best part of the ridge for views, that is most easily accessed, is the Suggiture and Augstmatthorn section. But it is long and somewhat monotonous to reach from the Harderkulm. If you need a quick access point, it is from Lombachalp on the north side of the ridge.
Hi,
My girlfriend and me did a part of the trail last week. We took the cablecar from Interlaken-Ost to Harderkulm and started walking towards the Augstmatthorn. Mostly we walked in the forest and the path isn’t on the ridge itself. After walking 1h30min we got a view without trees, on the point where you can decent to Ringgenberg. The top of Augst was another 1h30min and seemed cloudy, so we decided to walk down for over 2h to Ringgenberg. The steepness is doable, but the path can get narrow. Here are a few pictures from the walk we did.
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/vabl9x5x3e191vt/AACyoCuTJMCrZImFFz92XUJ9a?dl=0
Hi Dan,
Several of my friends and myself are planning on doing the Hardergrat on 7 July. We are all excited but also a tab bit nervous! Anything special we should bring besides lots of water food and trekking poles?!
Author
The SwissTopo map app is helpful on your phone.
Hi there, just wanted to ask if the trail from augstmatthorn down to lombachalp is easy or hard, and if it’s clearly marked.. can it be managed by non professional hikers? Does it require trekking poles or anythg like that?
And one last thing, does the trail from harder kulm to augstmatthorn have a very steep and dangerous parts?
Thank you
Author
The trail from Augstmatthorn to Lombachalp is relatively easy, just elevation gain/loss. It’s a huge trail. The trail from Harderkulm to Augstmatthorn is also relatively easy, just long and at the Suggiture quite steep with some chains – but still on a trail and still walking.
Good morning,
We are moving to Switzerland and this trail is a goal of ours for the whole family. What are the trails you would recommend to train so next summer we can be ready to take on this challenge? Thank you!
Author
Hi Laure, I’d say just get out as often as you can, and maybe even consider doing a piece of the Hardergrat to see how it feels. The Lombachalp-Suggiture-Augstmatthorn loop is great. There is also this trail that we jokingly referred to as the Startergrat https://elevation.alpsinsight.com/switzerland/lobhorner-loop/ The more time out the better for everything. // Dan
Hi!
My parents and I are going to Switzerland and really want to do this hike. My parents are ~60 – but they are in good shape and love hiking. However, there is no way we could do this whole hike. How could we get to the scenic ridge part of the hike on a quicker/safer route? Is it recommended to go from Lombachalp to Augustmatthorn?
Thanks.
Author
Yes, Lombachalp to Augstmatthorn is the easiest way on to the ridge and is about 60-90 minutes and all uphill. It’s the spot where the first image was made.
Also, at what part of the hike was that first image taken? So beautiful – we want to see the vast expanse of ridge, will probably turn back and not do the whole thing but it is something we really want to see.
Hi Dan,
We had met at the Swiss Trail Award last year. I hope you are still as passionate as what you have shared with us this evening.
I plan on doing the ridge this Saturday depending on weather and thunderstorms. I was wondering I could start at Niederried bei Interlaken going up to Suggiture following the hiking trail from SwissTopo. I would prefer leaving by night around 04.30 to take the advantage of the sunrise at the top and lower temperatures (with no water up there).
Do you see this as a “good plan” or would you recommend to leave from Ringgenberg instead?
Thank you for your advice.
Regards,
Nicolas
Author
Hi Nicolas, Yes, still as passionate as ever! Thank you for the encouragement, some days I suppose I need it. The trail up from Niederried is actually my favorite way up, it’s the most direct, beautiful, and eliminates the long rooty section in the forest. But the Graaggator is also great from Rinngenberg, and has a cool surprise. Take your pick. Enjoy the experience, and yes, early starts are best. / Dan
Thank you Dan for the quick response. Much appreciated.
I wish you the best. I will post back here the summary of the tour so that all can take advantage of it.
Best,
Nicolas.
Hi Dan, all,
Thank you for the tips, it has been a great hike. As promise, below a brief summary of the morning.
Starting from Niederried is really nice, you reach the ridge right before Augstmatthorn. Going to Rothorn took me about 7 hours (we are all different, don’t take this as benchmark). Sunrise at Augstmatthorn was stunning. The way down from Tannhorn is exposed but nice. Then you follow the track along the ridge, you cannot miss it. I have not needed SwissTop once up there (you have anyway only two ways 😀 ). A well deserved 3 DL coke at the Rothorn Restaurant. Just a perfect day.
I have loved taking time looking at the ibex, I was surprise by the numbers of individuals in groups.
Below summary of all the tips and important points I could read or figured out while doing it:
– bring water (it was hot this weekend +30°C, I have used over 4L for the entire ridge and felt short)
– start early to avoid heat and possible late day Thunderstorms in summer due to condensation (you re exposed without any way out)
– don’t go if stormy, wet or still snowy as mentioned above
– if you need to head toward Zurich from Brienzer Rothorn: take the gondola from Rothorn to Sorenberg, then a bus takes you to Schupfheim –> Luzern –> Zurich / it is faster than taking the steam train down to Brienz
– take a pair of binoculars if you like fauna, lots to see
– exposed route, do not attempt if height-sick
Thank you Dan again for sharing this jewel. It’s a real Nugget!
Best,
Nicolas
Hi Nicolas!
Could you help me? If we leave our car at the start point in Interlaken which way we have to choose for returning to parking from Brienzer Rothorn Bahn? I meant to return by public transport.
Thanks
Hi Dan,
we are going to hike this Sunday (19th August). But I couldn’t find enough information. I doubt if we’ll be able to see the path on the whole trail.
And I checked the wether, there will be rain in the evening before the tracking day. And I hesitate to hike in such conditions.
What do you advise me?
Thanks in advance. Anna.
Hi Dan,
How difficult would it be to hike UP the Oberried bailout? I’d like to see that classic ridgeline view of the Tannhorn and it seems taking the bailout up and back would be the shortest (and probably cheapest) option. Have you heard of anyone who has done this? Thanks!!
Author
I do that trail quite often and it is one of the easier ways on and off the ridge – enjoy!
Thank you so much for the advice!
One question: if we were to park in Niederried to start the trail, where could we park (either paid or free) to start at around 5am? And how long does it take to get up to the ridge from there assuming above average fitness?
Thanks!
Author
Niederried has weird parking, pretty limited… you’ll have to do some exploring. My last time up that trail was 70 minutes going pretty hard, bottom to top. It’s steep and great! The views on top…. you’ll see.
Hi Dan,
This page has been so helpful! My boyfriend and I are attempting to walk this hike east to west sometime within the next week (waiting to pick the day with the best weather :)). We are staying in Brienz so we plan to take the first train up to Brienzer Rothorn in the morning which means we wouldn’t start hiking the trail until 9:30am. We are hoping to do the entire ridgeline all the way to Harder Kulm, which has trains running back down to Interlaken until 9:40pm. We are hoping to make it to Harder Kulm before sundown but have headlamps just in case. Do you think this would be possible within our time frame given the late start? We are both very active, and experienced hikers who have done extensive ridgeline hikes before (although I am positive they won’t compare to the hardergrat!).
Author
Of course it’s possible, and even highly likely, you’ll make it. But I don’t know your skill and comfort level in exposed terrain so I can only provide a guess. Enjoy!
Hi, I went from Interlaken West – Harder Kulm – Augstmatthorn – to Oberried. It was very challenging, especially when you have a fear of height. The terrain is exposed, so the wind blows very strong, diminishing a feeling of stability. Going down from Augstmatthorn in the direction of Brienz was really hard – the trail was accompanied with chains, but sometimes this distance was done without chains at all. Recommended only for people that are ok with exposed space, wind and without altitude discomfort. However, do not go there if your fitness is under question and leave children at home.
Thanks.
it is possible to do in this time of year?
Author
It’s different every year so best to always check in regarding conditions. This year it is totally fine at the moment.
Hello! You lovely people helped make this dream a reality… We did the UNBELIEVABLY AMAZING Hardergrat in July this year, and it is by far my fondest memory of our 5 week European adventure with my now fiancé. It was a dream come true, we were lucky enough to have gorgeous weather too and the lake below was the most stunning teal colour.
My question for you is… perhaps too unrelated and I’m sorry, but, we are DESPERATE to go back, for our honeymoon, in May next year! Twice in one year, is that too ridiculous?! All the way from Sydney Australia too I should add!! We are wondering if mid May will be too early to do any hikes? Can you recommend some low altitude ones with amazing mountain & lake views that may be open? Otherwise and/or in addition, we’re considering Austria and Germany too as we didn’t get there last time, are there any hikes you’d recommend there? Or, we’re thinking perhaps around Northern Italy/lake Como, are there any must-do’s around there that would be accessible in mid May? Sorry for the bombardment of questions.
Thank you SO much for your time & help & assistance, and of course for making the STUNNING, and somewhat scary, Hardergrat happen 🙂
Annie
Author
Hi Annie, This is great, and our whole team is in the office today with smiles on our faces with what you have described Thank you for that!
About May…. that is a tough one as it really is in between seasons. It’s hard to say what is possible because it all depends on how much snow and what the temps are over the winter. And, May tends to be wet, plus no huts are open in the Alps. So, it is not the best time! Germany and Austria… truthfully, neither are anywhere close to what the Alps are, but Germany would be more ope as they just don’t have the big mountains. But, I know very little about either. If at all possible… push your dates into July when everything is open for biz. But, you might consider the Dolomites as they are possible, but again, huts won’t be open until June 20, and little else will be open as well. That’s the Alps in May! You would be able to do day hikes, but with a lot less options. The Como area is also possible, but I don’t know anything about where to go. If you can, and you are runners, hang tight until we release our nine day trail running grand tour – the Via Valais. But that is also for late summer. I hope you find something that works! — Dan
Great website! If you were looking for a manageable ridge hike (3-5 hours), would you recommend Augstmatthorn to Harder Kulm or taking the train up to Brienzer Rothorn and hiking around up there? The views at Brienzer Rothorn look more stunning, because of the higher elevation, but I don’t really know where to hike once you’re there. I know some people hike to Turren, but it looks as if most that would no longer be on the ridge. How would an out and back hike from BR to Lattgassli be? Thanks so much!
Author
Ross, the best section of the Hardergrat, if you are cool with steep and exposed terrain, is Augstamatthorn to the Ällgäuwhoren. If you take a bus to Lombachalp, hike up to the ridge, then go east, you can then drop off south to Oberried and bus or train back to Interlaken. If this is complicated, then I’d say the Harderkulm to Augstmatthorn and down is best.
Hello! I am going to Interlaken on friday and staying til 29 may. Is it safe to do the hike considering the weather and is there still any snow?
Thank you!
Author
Hi Lilla, I haven’t been home in Interlaken for a couple of weeks. But the weather has been terrible and I cannot imagine the whole ridge is possible until there is a long dry period. I’m home this week if you’d like to check back in later.
Thank you for answering. I only want to do parts of the trail starting in Interlaken to Augstmatthorn so hopefully the weather will be good. I will defienitly check back in later this week 🙂
I’ve been in the mountains around Interlaken a few times over the past weeks, and unfortunately several sections of the ridge are still covered in a considerable amount of snow. It’s probably going to take at least a few more weeks, if not longer, before the entire ridge is dry.
Such a helpful website! We’re thinking of doing the Harder Kulm to Augustmatthorn part of the trail in one of the coming weekends. How is the snow situation at the moment? Do you think we could do the part already this weekend or should we wait?
Author
Hi Camilla, at this point, waiting is best. You can get to Augstmatthorn, with some snow, but beyond is unlikely.
Hello! I would first like to say thank you as I have read all of the comments and questions on this page and it has been extremely helpful!
Secondly, my best friend and I are traveling to Interlaken this mid-July and are thinking about conquering this hike west to east from Interlaken to Brienz and take the train down. We aren’t super experienced hikers, maybe have done some 5 milers but are in good shape as we were both college athletes. Do you think trying to take on the whole hike is too much or since there are bail out options we could try and see how we feel? I have been skydiving and love adrenaline packed activities but my friend is not so much on that scale so I am a little worried about her.
Also if we do try and bail out at Oberried or something, what is the best way to get back to Interlaken?
Author
Hi Kelsey,
Honestly, based on your experience, I’d say this is not the hike for you. One idea, you can get to Augstmatthorn from Interlaken and assess how it’s going. At that point, most everyone without the experience or fitness will stop and either turn around and head back, or descend to Lombachalp and take the bus back. Yes, you can keep going and use the other dropoffs to the lake and then bus home, but it gets very steep leaving the Augstmatthorn. You need fitness, experience and the ability to make good decisions before you get into a bad situation. And it can happen on the Hardergrat. See what happens on the first part and decide. If you are tired or concerned at that point, you still have all the hard stuff ahead of you, and lots of it. Take it seriously!
Hi, I’m looking at doing the Hardergrat July 8, 2019, taking the first ride up Harder Klum (as opposed to leaving before sunrise) and aiming for 8hrs. I anticipate fast hiking/easy jogging up to Augstmatthorn, and taking my time on all narrow or precarious ascents and descents, which may be a good portion of the rest of the route. I’m a trail runner but intend to take my time and enjoy this. It’s been on my bucket list for years. I’d love company if anyone on this thread or in admin is interested.
In looking at the forecast for the next 2 weeks, I see 80% chance of thunderstorms every day. Given that this shouldn’t be attempted in wet weather, how many days of clear weather do I need to prior to attempting this to be safe? My planned date is only 23 days away.
Finally, what camera lenses do you recommend bringing for photos? Thanks!
Author
The forecast this time of year is not at all reliable, it changes day to day until the summer weather settles in with hopefully a high pressure system. In summer, the ridge dries off each day by mid-day, the grass is always wet early from dew, but any mud dries out pretty well. Of course not always. So if it rains, you can still do it the next day.
Hi Tom – would love to hear how this went! My boyfriend and I are planning on going in two weeks. We want to go west to east – take the first funicular from Harder Klum, and hustle to make the last train down from Brienz Rothorn. We are both athletes, but at the moment both recovering from minor injuries. We were wondering if it is possible to stay the night in Brienz Rothorn if we miss the last train down, or if it would just make more sense to go east to west in stead.
Would love to hear how it goes for you!
Hi, I got rained out. There were thunderstorms the 2 days prior, and it rained the day I had scheduled to go. Since I was going solo and had never been on the trail, I played it safe and will try again another time.
Hi – My boyfriend and I are planning on going in two weeks (July 24). We want to hike/run from west to east – taking the first funicular from Harder Klum (9:10am), and hustle to make the last train down from Brienz Rothorn (5:40pm). Are those times correct?
We are both athletes, but at the moment both recovering from minor injuries. We were wondering if it is possible to stay the night in Brienz Rothorn if we miss the last train down (we know that is extremely tight timing), or if it would just make more sense to go east to west instead? Have heard the east to west views are not really as pretty as going west to east.
Would love any suggestions or recommendations!
Hi!
Is there a good spot near the start of the trail in Interlaken for parking your car?
Do you have to book traintickets from Brienz in advance or can you safely buy at Brientz?
Author
Hi Jan, There is parking at both the Interlaken train stations not far from the trail head. It’s fine to buy tickets back from Brienzersee when you are there, no need to book ahead of time. If you are planning to take the cog wheel down from Brienzer Rothorn. Enjoy.
Thanks 🙂
Hi folks,
How long do you think the hike will take ( no running. just regular walking and being extra careful around steep sections) from Brienzer rothorn to augustmatthorm and down to lombachalp?
I am planning to do this stretch around the first week of September.
Author
There is absolutely no way for us to say with any accuracy as we don’t know you or your fitness and skill level. This is a very unique trail and not at all normal. It’s very slow.
Hi,
I’m planning on doing the trail in late August and am trying to figure out how to get my bags from Interlaken to Brienz to meet us when we come down off the Eastern end of the trail. Is there a service that you know of to do that? Would we be able to pay our hotel in Interlaken to transfer our bags to where we are staying in Brienz?
I’ve been travelling around Switzerland since doing the Eiger E101 ultra trail, then Sierre-Zinal and then with some adventures in Zermatt also (what a dream trip! legs are starting to get tired ha) and back now near Interlaken again and wold like to do Hardergrat, I’m fairly flexible but looking at maybe doing this at some time over the next 10 days. If anyone fancies joining me let me know as I will be doing it solo otherwise, I’m a quick’ish mid packer, but won’t be trying to race this and want to enjoy it. I’ve not yet got to planning logistics, directions, trains etc. Reply if you are interested!
Reflecting on my life-changing run on the Hardergrat back in August: BE PREPARED this trail is intense and should not be treated lightly. Being my last week in Switzerland, I woke up that August morning and decided to try running this trail ( have background in XC and run 30-40 miles a week). Learned very quick that trail running this route is nothing close to XC. A quick story of my dumb mistakes hopefully will help future runners:
I figured I could test this venture alone and with only 2L of water. Needless to say I ended up 13km in at Augstmatthorn with no water left and cramps building fast: not a good situation to be in while alone and with no water stations nearby. The cramps worsened into unbearable pain in my quads that prevented me from standing at all and I actually ended up sitting on the side of the trail unable to move. After waiting a good hour, I realized there was no way I would be able to stand without water (and for sure not make it to Brienz for the last car down the mountain). So I waited and a miracle emerged over the next ridge as Alex and his running group headed towards me. Supplying me generously with a salt pill, ample water, and food, these guys saved my life potentially and I will always remember their generosity. Lesson for anyone reading: Do not underestimate the trail like I did. Bring more than enough water and travel with someone else. I felt quite panicked when dehydration kicked in at Augstmatthorn and I was stuck on top of the trail until another group happened to pass by. With no phone, I would have spent the night there given my situation.
Regarding getting back to my home (which was Zurich at the time): after regaining my strength from the generous gifts, it was now close to 5pm. With no hope of reaching Brienz for the last car, I felt quite lost without a cellphone map. So I took a route to the left off the Hardergrat down into a valley (opposite side of Interlaken lake) with some beautiful Swiss farmland, hoping to reach a road and maybe a bus stop.
While it was quite peaceful, I was certainly lost at this point and only had the grazing cows to keep me company. I spent close to 2 hours wondering in farmland and then on roads before reaching a large guest house for help, which was to the amusement of the locals sitting on the front porch who probably thought I looked ridiculous covered in dirt/sweat/ and telling them I came from hiking 20 km away in Interlaken. They kindly instructed me to a bus stop at Kemmeriboden, which was another hour walk.
For the final stretch of this journey, I found myself looking back up to the Augstmatthorn point on the Hardergrat trail (now 8km away) and realizing how beautiful this country truly is. Passing stunning waterfalls and quaint wooden sculptures along the trail I hiked towards the bus stop, I was thoroughly exhausted and hoping to make the 830 bus. Luckily made it in time and couldn’t believe how far I was from the start at Harder Kulm.
In summary: this trail is gorgeous and worth seeing, but if you are not an expert trail runner I would not recommend trying your luck runming without extreme care and prep. This trail offers some very sketchy climbing points and virtually no water refill stations. Thus, having enough resources and proper gear is a must. Overall, I loved the journey nonetheless and greatly appreciated the Swiss trail running community and local people living near Interlaken. I hope to return someday to show my family this trail and the secret waterfalls of the Emme creek.
A friend and I are planning to try the hike this weekend (July 5).
It seems there will be a decent dry period now, but with the last 3 weeks quite wet, I was wondering if anyone had any insight on trail conditions currently. We are both nervous and excited but hope for an epic day in the beautiful Swiss mountains.
Author
Hi Jacob, If it’s dry for a day after rain, you should be good. The trail is being done all the time now and as far as I know, in normal, good condition. Let your countdown begin. Have a great time!
Hi all,
Planning to do the trail next weekend (17th October), but don’t know if it’s the best conditions.
Not that afraid of the cold, but yes for the snow and how it could be up there.
Any recommendations?
Thanks
Author
The ridge has been in and out of the snow for the last weeks. The weather has been terrible. Best to check conditions based on weather the days prior to. This week looks to be wet and dark, again… I hope it works out.
Hi,
Im planning on hiking this trail mid-june of this year or next year. Probably alone, since my boyfriend is scared of heights.
I would say I have good backpacking experience. I backpacked 100miles across the Spanish countryside two years ago. Backpacked about 14 miles a day. Came across some mountains, but doable. I know however, that this hike is fairly short, but very intense. I am very concerned about the the hills- up and downs. I have knee problems as a result of my trip to Spain (nothing serious, but does cause discomfort on downhills).
About how many distinct “hills” are on the Hardergrat trail? What is the elevation of the tallest one? How busy is the trail during the summer? Most importantly, how safe is the city? I will be 20 or 21 when I hike it.
Thank you!
Author
Hi Shannon,
First up, Switzerland basically has zero crime – so, all should be good for you traveling.
You can study the trail on the Swiss map. It’s impossible for me to say if it is possible for you or not given your knee. All I can say is that it is a difficult route. It gets very busy around the Augstmatthorn section because of easy access, but the overall route will be fairly quiet. You just need to make sure you get to the train in time to descend the Ridgeline or you’ll have a very grim descent for a bad knee. Read our pages about the Hardergrat carefully, all the info it is there.
Ditto on it being extremely safe and everyone we met on and off the trail was extremely friendly. My wife and I got engaged on the Augstmatthorn…tell your boyfriend to get over it and join you 🙂
Regarding timing. If you want to do it in one shot (starting in Interlaken and finishing in time to take the train down from Brienzer Rothorn), you’ll need to start very very early in the morning. It is a long trail to begin with and think of it like hiking on a saw blade. From Interlaken up to the Augstmatthorn it feels like a normal alpine hike with some beautiful open meadows etc. the rest of the way is an ascent immediately followed by a descent immediately followed by another ascent more or less the rest of the trail. The distance isn’t what makes it a challenging hike, it is the up and down as well as the very narrow and unique geography you have to traverse. One of the most unique hikes I’ve done and I’ve walked most of the Hawaiian islands and to end along ridge lines. Would love to go back and give it a second run. For what it’s worth though I think the hike is better done with a partner.
Hey, do you know if the conditions are already good enough to do the trail?
Thanks!
Author
I’m not sure because I’ve been in the US the last 6 weeks. You might try checking in at the FB group for our site runs: https://www.facebook.com/groups/swisstrailandpeakrunning
Hey all,
Some really great information here. Thinking about trying it this Saturday from West – East. I’ve struggled a bit to understand just what to expect towards the Brienz end. People are suggesting poles are a must or even ice axes? Others saying they just run it … so a bit confused about what exactly to expect and whether poles / ice axes / etc are a good idea (don’t normally use them). Lots of picture of the ridge walking but not sure what this scrambling / down climbing is like?
Any advice appreciated, especially if anyone has done the walk lately!
Hi. For the equipemnt, All depends on conditions. Late summer, you need water (no points, rivers etc) on the ridge, good shoes and some endurance. For now (mid june), It snowed a lot last month still, few patches left, so being equiped might still make sens in few places. The ridge ia exposed in few places, i have seen people stuck because they felt not confortable at all. If you are used to hiking and mountainering, there will be no issues. And…. Check the weather, you cannot get out at all places once on the ridge. If storm comes, it can be really tricky, better start ealry to avoid condensation storms coming end of day late summer. Hope this helps!
Hey Nicolas, thanks for the comment.
Here’s a summary of what we did 14 June 2021 for those and some feedback, as so many of these comments helped me!
We left Interlarken about 4AM, and walked up to Harder Kulm. Nice walk up, really depends on fitness but it’s quite a bit of elevation. I don’t normally use walking poles but found them really useful on this walk – would recommend. There was a little smattering of rain on Friday night (a few mm) but the track was fine (the bits we did anyway – read on). The trail was lovely and we took our time. As many have described the first section is really a forest walk. It gets really lovely as you start to get onto the ridge. A real classic. We had phoned the information office the day before and they said the bit past the Augstmatthorn (Augstmatthorn – Brienz Rothorn) wasn’t open / walkable yet but the rest of trail is fine. They also don’t really recommend that bit as it’s not an “official” trail – it’s a blue/moutaineering trail. The trickier bits people recommend (including chains, etc) are this section. With that in mind, we chose to walk and exit down to Oberried, rather than doing the whole thing. Be warned if you don’t do a lot of alpine walking (I don’t) then the descent down is hard work 🙂 The trail to that point (the Oberried exit) was fine. People were pressing on too so I suspect the rest of the trail might have been fine too. 5L of water is a good recommendation for walking – we didn’t do the whole thing, but we were out there a while (took our time and had a few nice long stops – even a nap) and I ran out just as we finished. Someone was asking about maps – Swisstopo mobile app is excellent – highly recommend it.
Definitely will be back to complete the whole thing – hopefully this year!
Happy walking/running all!
It is a long hike so water and some energy bars are definitely a good idea unless you are EXTREMELY sure of your ability to move that distance/time over very rough terrain. My wife and I did West-East a few years back and some poles might be helpful…there are a few tricky spots with down hiking, if the trail conditions are not optimal and/or as you start to tire out they could be very helpful. Closer to the Brienz section of the trail there are some rocky stretches that are a bit like loose gravel (before you hit the stairs). It is an amazing hike though, I can’t wait to go back.
I’m planning to go in August, and start the hike from Interlaken at 3:00am with the idea of doing a lot of ascending before it gets to the hotter times of the day.
Is this doable? Are there things to be concerned of?
Also, what’s the best place to find a decent hiking map of this area? Maybe a tourist info shop in Interlaken?
Thanks in advance!
Hi Robin – I did this last year in July and we started at 4am and I think it is a good idea. There is no shade and in the heat you really save yourself a number of hot hours by starting early and hiking up. It is a long day! But totally worth it. It is very safe and if you have a headlamp to see you probably don’t have much to be concerned about if that is your worry. There are a number of Apps (I like All Trails) that have great maps for the trails but really it is pretty easy to follow – stay on the ridge… going up there are a few options, but with any hiking app it should be fine.
Okay, that’s exactly what I was hoping to hear, enough visibility with a headlamp. Thanks for the reply, Jacob!
Start time really depends on how quickly you think you can cover the distance…give yourself a buffer for water/snack breaks and just in case the terrain is not great. The down climbing sections are tricky in a few spots and you’ll want to take your time. If you’re planning on going all the way to Brienzer Rothron and taking the steam train down, you don’t want to miss the last train of the day. We started at 4:30am (from the trailhead behind the train station in Interlaken) and got there with about an hour to spare and it was nice to grab a beer at the cafe at the top and rest our feet and enjoy the view. Really the only tricky part as far as trail maps is getting from the train station in Interlaken up to the observation deck at Harder Kulm…we did it in the dark (with headlamps) just following the trail up on google maps. After that its impossible to take a wrong turn as you’re on the spine the whole way and the trail is very very clear.
Hi! What shorter route would you recommend for someone wanting to maximize the view, but wanting to avoid the most difficult and potentially dangerous parts? I would be comfortable with a hike up to 6h, Grade: medium, Fitness level: difficult, according to SwitzerlandMobility’s grading. Would you recommend starting from Harder Kulm or Brienzer Rothorn? Maybe something like ”
Höhenwanderung zum Augstmatthorn, Harder Kulm–Habkern” (https://www.schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/routes/route-0344.html)? Is it better to bail out south down to Brienzersee or north to one of the villages with bus connection (e.g. Lombach or Habkern)?
I’d definitely start from the Interlaken side. If you’re hiking up from the train station, you should be able to get close to the Augstmatthorn within that timeframe. That side of the hike is much easier (still steep but much wider and less walking on the spine with sketchy downclimbs) and has wonderful views…there are also many clear places to bail out down the ridge to towns along the North side of the ridge to catch a bus.
Is there any spot close to the Interlaken starting point where I can spend the night in the car and leave the car parked until I get back?
Is there a possibility to bivouac in Rothorn? Thanks!
Author
There is a mountain hotel at the Rothorn train station where hikers often stay to get an early start.
Hi,
I’m hoping to hike this solo. I’m a 37 year old woman. I know physically I can do it but is it safe for women to hike alone?
Author
In my opinion, it doesn’t get any safer than hiking in the Alps.
Hi Megan,
100% agreed with the previous post. I would have zero concern about hiking as a solo woman on that trail. If you have any concerns it should potentially be doing that hike alone on some of steeper/narrower sections of the trail. It is generally pretty safe (non-technical) but if the weather is at all bad or you get more fatigued than you had planned, you might want someone with you. Make sure you take water and some food as it’s a long day. All that being said, my wife and I got engaged on that hike and it remains one of the more spectacular ones I’ve done.
Last week (end-Aug-2021) I hiked the complete Hardergrat trail and I would like to share a bit of details and tips from my side. In total, I hiked the Hardergrat in 12 hours. This includes the hike from Interlaken up to Harder Kulm and the hike down to Brienz Station. Excluding these two hikes up and down, the Hardergrat trail took me 8.5 hours. I took almost no breaks, which I will explain in the final paragraph.
Interlaken – Harder Kulm
– Signs will tell you it takes 2 hours. Took me 1,5 hours without taking breaks and keeping a steady pace.
– Nice and easy path, steady incline.
– There is one split where I got a bit confused. It will tell you to go left to “Hardermandli’ or right to the ‘Elfenpath’. I took the path to Hardermandli which seemed to be the correct path, as after this look-out point I got to the Harder Kulm quite fast.
Harder Kulm – Augstmatthorn
– You’ll start in a forest trail and close to farmer’s land. Very easy hike and a nice introduction to the Hardergrat follows.
– At the end of the Augstmatthorn I got a bit confused again with the signs. There were two ways moving forward at the top of the Augstmatthorn: Left showed an white/blue ‘Alpine Trail’, with warnings that proper equipment is needed. The path right looked like it was going south, declining away from the ridge. After some doubt I took the Alpine trail which in the end was the correct path.
Augstmatthorn – Brienzer Rothorn
– This is where things get serious and you will have to be extremely careful. There are slippery parts and – honestly – deadly cliffs.
– Very limited amount of signs to tell you whether you are going the right way or how far you are, which can be mentally exhausting. In any case, if you keep hiking the ridge, you are on the right trail.
Brienzer Rothorn – Brienz
– After you finally made it to the end of the Hardergrat, you can either go left to the ‘Brienz Train Station’ to catch the train down. Hiking to the trainstation will take around 1 hour. Or you take a right turn and walk down, the signs will tell you it will take 2 hours and 45 minutes. I hiked down within 2 hours as I was properly excited to have finally completed the Hardergrat. Armed with my walking poles I jogged most of the sections, as it is a very easy gravelled road path back down. Will be rough on the knees though as you have already mor than 8 hours.
Overall timelines:
– 04:00 I started the hike up from Interlaken to the Harder Kulm. Proper headlights are required of course.
– 05:30 I arrived at the Harder Kulm and immediately moved forward to the Augstmatthorn
– 14:00 I finally made it to the end of the Hardergrat, leaving me with the decision to take the expensive train or hike down.
– 16:00 I hiked down and finally made it down to Brienz.
General thoughts:
– It was extremely foggy and quite wet. In hindsight, I should not have done the Hardergrat trail as it was quite dangerous. The entire trail was menacing and the air was threatening with rain constantly. Luckily, in the end it remained dry, with exception of the wet stones due to the fog.
– As highlighted above, my total Hardergrat hike took around 8.5 hours, excluding the climb up & down. It was cold, foggy and wet. These weather conditions did not invite to long breaks to enjoy the views. My longest break was only around 3 minutes to eat my pancake lunch.
– I came across some people on this hike who started from Brienz at 10:00 or 11:00, hiking Westward. This means they would be arriving at Harder Kulm around 18:00 or 19:00. When you want to hike the Hardergrat, please make a concious decision on your starting time, as I strongly recommend to start earlier than this.
– After some cloudy days, I could not push out this hike to another day, as I was leaving home the next day already. For that reason I pushed my luck with simply hiking the Hardergrat, even though I knew weather conditions would not be ideal. Due to the fog and wet stones, I should have skipped the trail in all honesty. During the hike I just ‘wanted to get it over with’, I did not enjoy it that much.
Some of my tips above I could not find elsewhere online, so hopefully they come in handy for other hikers!
Hello,
Has anyone been on the Hardergrat lately? The weather is calling for a little rain on Friday but I think it would be dry by Sunday? Welcome others suggestions.
Thanks.
I just turned 62. I’m in good shape, have done a ton of hiking, never this exposed for what I see in the pictures.
If I go really slow in the most dangerous parts, how much of a risk am I taking? I know this is a tough question to answer. I’m really conscious about danger, and I think that that is the right attitude to have, but this place is too attractive to let it go. I would do it this summer and make sure that I do it on dry conditions. Any comment will be greatly appreciated.
Author
Hi Francisco, You are very right, it is just not possible to give real advice about these sorts of things. Without knowing you, I really don’t know what to say. But, there are some bail out points and you can always turn back if you don’t feel good about the line. If you start in Interlaken, you’ll have a chance to have a real look at how it’s going to be from the top of the Augstmatthorn. If you decide to not continue, you can easily get down to a bus stop in Lombachalp.
Thank you very much for your help!
If the weather and conditions (dry) are good, the terrain itself offers very little danger as long as you’re an experienced hiker. I think the main concern would be your conditioning and your ability to stay focused. It’s a very long day and if your legs are giving out or your mind wanders later in the hike, there are some down climbs that could possibly be troublesome. That being said, It’s one of the most breathtaking hikes I’ve ever done, my wife and I got engaged on top of the Augstmatthorn.
Thank you very much, Rick! That’s very helpful. I’m planning to leave very early, like 4 AM (early July), so that I can get several breaks. The funny thing is that, when I watch the videos on Youtube, I have not seen a single person that might be close to my age (62), so that means they either don’t go there, or they die (lol!).
By the way, Rick, getting engaged there, what a great idea. A dream!
Hi!
A few years ago a friend and I hiked a big part of the Hardergrat Trail, but unfortunately we had bail out because we were running out of time. This Saturday two other friends and I will be in Switzerland competing in a rowing race near Zürich and I thought this would be the opportunity to redo the Hardergrat Trail. However, some webcams showed there is still a lot of snow on the ridge. Do you think it would be possible to hike the trail coming Sunday 8 May? Or will it be too dangerous and slippery?
Author
Hi Michel, I am not in CH at the moment but cannot imagine it is possible to the Hardergrat. It typically does not come into condition until late June as the ridge and north side hold snow late. You’re going to have to make a return trip!
Hi. Thank you for all the information! Has anybody does this alone before?
Author
I’ve done it alone several times.
Did in 10 hours from Interlaken Ost station to Brunig Halisberg station the day after 2 days of rain in mid September. There was snow on the north faces and the cement stairs up the last pass were covered in snow and ice. Glad to have those steps though! Would have been faster had the trail been dry – it is slippery and treacherous when wet even on the flat due to greasy mud. Another factor in the time- I’ve not before taken this many photos on a single outing! Every few min is a new an amazing view. There’s only 100 yards or so I’d call a knife edge, at least compared to other knife edge ridges I’ve done such as Mathes Crest in the Sierra Nevada. During this section people had navigated down and around below the ridge. However it is possible to stay on the ridge proper the whole way, albeit slower since the grass is somewhat rough. I’d expect those not accustomed to scrambling steep terrain to be freaked out by the ridge, but if you’re used to this kind of thing there’s nothing scary on this route. In hind sight would have been wise to pack a headlamp. Barely made it out before dark. Cell phone battery died during the last few miles where route finding is a bit harder since you enter farm land with a number of roads and trail intersections. This last section also has amazing views of a different nature than the ridge with snow capped peaks towering above lush green farms. I enjoyed the whole route and want to do it again when it’s dry.
Hello! Thanks for the all the great information. Hoping for some more insight!
I plan on doing the Hardergrat next year, splitting it into two different sections, on different days due to time and based on the group’s comfort level. There’s a lot of info on Harderkulm-Augstmatthorn-Lombachalp which I plan to do, but I’m hoping for more info on the exposure on the ridge’s east side. I read through all the comments and have searched and haven’t found much advice starting east and how far to go before it’s considered “sketchy” or more narrow.
Would you recommend Brienzer Rothorn to the base of Tannhorn as worth doing to experience the east part of the ridge? Or from Brienzer Rothorn, how far West would you suggest for an out and back/bailout route? From what I gather and correct me if I’m wrong, it’s west of Tannhorn that is the more nervewracking part of Hardergrat. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks!