Lake Thun Blog
Winter hiking around Lake Thun - seven unforgettable winter experiences
Published on
December 23, 2024
Pristine winter landscapes, glorious sunshine and breathtaking mountain panoramas - Lake Thun is a true winter hiking paradise. Numerous winter hikes around the lake are waiting to be discovered. From leisurely family outings to more challenging tours, we present seven varied routes that will delight beginners and experienced hikers alike.
Winter hiking at Lake Oeschinen
Experience Lake Oeschinen in a very special way: The leisurely circular trail leads along the frozen lake, past the UNESCO Ice Walk - a unique winter experience on pure ice. With breathtaking views of the Blüemlisalp and the Jungfrau-Aletsch World Heritage Site, this winter hike offers everything the winter heart desires.
Length: 4 kilometers
Elevation gain: up 140m, down 140
Difficulty: easy
Winter hiking on the Gurnigel
Starting at the Gurnigel mountain hut, this easy circular hike leads through the snow-covered winter landscape at Selibühl. With the peaks of Gantrisch, Bürglen and Nünenenflue as an imposing backdrop and views as far as Lake Thun, the route is a real highlight. Ideal for families and connoisseurs who want to escape the fog and immerse themselves in the winter tranquillity of the Gantrisch region.
Length: 3 kilometers
Altitude difference: up 170m, down 170
Difficulty: easy
Winter hiking in the Stockhorn region
From the Chrindi middle station, the trail first leads to the idyllic Hinterstockensee, where fishing and an ice rink are operated in winter. The trail continues up to the alpine huts at Oberbärgli, where you can linger before descending with a view of the Stockhorn summit and the Stockhorn region.
Length: 3 kilometers
Elevation gain: 200m uphill, 200m downhill
Difficulty: easy-medium
Winter hiking on the Aeschi sun terrace
A winter hiking trail that combines the most beautiful viewpoints in Aeschi: the panorama includes the Frutigtal valley, the majestic Niesen, the glistening Lake Thun and the occasional mystical sea of fog. The gentle trail leads past old farmhouses, alpacas and snow-covered meadows to Aeschiried, where there are plenty of cozy places to stop for refreshments. Numerous seating areas along the circular trail invite you to linger and enjoy.
Length: 6 kilometers
Elevation gain: 200m uphill, 200m downhill
Difficulty: medium
Winter hike in the Diemtigtal
High above the valley floor, this varied winter hiking trail leads through snow-covered forests and meadows in the Diemtigtal Nature Park. Quiet paths, secluded alpine huts and impressive views of the rear Diemtigtal and Simmental valley beckon over 7 kilometers. At the end of the trail, there are various places to stop for refreshments or visit the wrestling pavilion - the winter hiking trail leads through the home of wrestling king Kilian Wenger.
Length: 7 kilometers
Altitude difference: up 240m, down 240
Difficulty: medium
Winter hike on the Sparenmoos
Magnificent views of the Simmental, Saanenland and the Vaud Alps await you on this 7 km circular tour. The varied trail leads across snow-covered pastures, through peaceful pine forests and past rustic alpine huts to Schiltenegg. Back at the Berghaus Sparenmoos, regional delicacies and the option of a speedy toboggan run to Zweisimmen are on offer at the end.
Length: 7 kilometers
Altitude difference: up 320m, down 320
Difficulty: medium
Winter hike with panoramic views from Niederhorn to Waldegg
This rather challenging winter hike awaits high above Lake Thun. Starting on the Niederhorn, the trail leads along a snow-covered ridge with spectacular views: the Justistal valley on the left and the majestic Bernese Alps above Lake Thun on the right. The descent is leisurely, with short climbs to the Oberburgfeld hut, where the panorama invites you to linger. The final descent leads to Beatenberg-Waldegg - with opportunities to continue your journey or stop for refreshments. Incidentally, Rocky's Winter Adventure is a new feature on the trail - there are tricky puzzles, games and information for the whole family at various posts.
Length: 10 kilometers
Elevation gain: 140m uphill, 880m downhill
Difficulty: difficult
Tips & preparation
Once you have decided on a tour, it is important to prepare properly for a winter hike:
Wear warm, waterproof clothing and good footwear; you may also want to take hiking poles with you.
As weather conditions can change quickly in winter, check the weather and trail conditions (especially the snow depth). Many tourist destinations offer a winter sports report where you can find the information.
Take a warm drink and some provisions with you - not all restaurants and mountain inns are open throughout the winter.
We hope you enjoy your winter hike!
