Hikes

Gemmipass hike to Kandersteg

Der Daubensee auf der Gemmi

Leukerbad

Closed

On a leisurely hike between the Gemmi and Sunnbüel, you cross the cantonal border. You will find a varied hiking trail with a unique panorama.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

8.52 km

Duration

3:00 h

Description

The historic pass crossing from Leukerbad over the Gemmi Pass to the Bernese Oberland is considered an absolute classic. Once the ascent from Leukerbad through the imposing rock towers of the Gemmi region is accomplished, a mostly descending, leisurely hiking trail awaits you to Kandersteg. Those looking for a more athletic challenge start in Kandersteg and switch from the Bernese Oberland to Valais.

From Gemmi Pass, the path leads along the Dauben lake via Schwarenbach to Sunnbüel. From there you reach Kandersteg on foot or by gondola. While the landscape on the Gemmi appears rough and barren, colorful flower meadows line the path further down at Spittelmatte.

Turn-by-turn directions

On a secured path, you can reach the pass height within two hours. The ascent on foot through the Gemmi wall offers unique insights into the steep rock faces surrounding Leukerbad. This path has existed since the 15th century.

As an alternative, the Gemmi cable car takes you to the pass height in 6 minutes. Here you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Valais Alps. The hiking trail follows the right shore of the Dauben lake to Schwarenbach and continues over the Alpe Spittelmatte to Sunnbüel/Stock. In the last section, it goes down the winding path to Eggenschwand/Kandersteg. From Eggenschwand, a hiking trail leads on the left bank of the Kander river to Kandersteg. Alternatively, you can walk along the road or take the bus to the village center.

Start

Gemmipass (2340m)

Destination

Sunnbüel (1933m)

Author's recommendation

Stop at the mountain restaurant Schwarenbach and treat yourself to a refreshing or warming drink. The homemade cakes are especially recommended.

Those who are not free from dizziness or want to avoid the steep ascent to the Gemmi can reach the pass height in just six minutes with the Gemmi cable car. Information about possible round-trip tickets is available at the Gemmi valley station or in Kandersteg.

Technical information

Altitude

2340m

1871m

Ascent

+69m

Descent

-475m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Tags

  • Dog-friendly
  • Linear route
  • Scenic
  • Geological highlights
  • Fauna
  • Out and back
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Family-friendly
  • Cultural/historical interest
  • Flora
  • Cableway ascent/descent
Getting there
Information

Public transport

Leuk is accessible by train (SBB), then the bus (LLB – Leuk Leukerbad Bus Reisen) runs to the starting point in Leukerbad and with the Gemmi-Bahn up to the Gemmi Pass.

Approach

From Basel and Zurich: Motorway A1 to Bern; A6 to Spiez; direction Kandersteg; car shuttle Kandersteg – Goppenstein; direction Gampel; Leuk – Leukerbad

From Geneva: Motorway A1 to Lausanne; direction Sion/Sierre; Leuk – Leukerbad

From Milan: Motorway A8/A26 towards Simplon; car shuttle Iselle-Brig; direction Leuk – Leukerbad

Parking

Various parking options in the village of Leukerbad. Follow the local parking guidance system.

Parkings in Leukerbad: Gemmi parking lot, Sportarena parking garage, Town hall parking garage, Torrent parking garage, Leukerbad Therme parking garage, Alpentherme parking garage.

Equipment

Use of the hiking trails and information on this website is at your own risk. Conditions on site may cause changes to the route. We assume no responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the information on this website. 

 

For all hikes:

  • Carry a map with you. Download the complete description of the hiking trail with a large-scale map by clicking on «Print» at the top right of the page.
  • Use only marked hiking trails and observe all signposts and instructions - for your own safety, to protect grazing animals, and to avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Close gates after passing through.
  • Behave considerately towards other trail users, plants, and animals.   

 For mountain hikes: 

  • Carry additional sun protection. UV rays at high altitudes can be very strong, even in cloudy weather.
  • Plan your hike carefully: take into account the required fitness level of all participants, weather forecasts, and seasonal dependencies.
  • Weather conditions in the mountains can change very fast and without warning. Appropriate clothing and sufficient provisions (food and drink) are very important. In unstable weather, it is better to turn back early. 

For high alpine hikes:

  • Inform your family about your hiking route. If possible, avoid being alone.
  • Do not venture onto glaciers without a mountain guide.
  • Pay attention to warning signals indicating dangers at riverbanks, along waterways below dams and reservoirs: water levels can rise quickly and without warning.

Safety information

The mountains, a place of joy to share and respect. The mountain world is a place to meet and experience unforgettable moments together – whether by bike or on foot. So that all users can benefit, it is essential to share this space with respect towards nature and agriculture. Respectful behavior enables everyone to carry out their leisure activities under the best conditions. Inform yourself about recommendations and rules.

Assess your own abilities and fitness well. Use of the various routes is generally at your own responsibility.

Additional information

The tourist office in Leukerbad provides you with information material and brochures about hiking in the destination and can give detailed information about the hike.

Preparation for a hike

Status of facilities

Maps

Topographic maps SwissTopo: 1:25,000: 1267 Gemmi

Source

This activity is brought to you by Leukerbad . Valais/Wallis Promotion is not responsible for the content provided.

The Swisspeak Resort in Vercorin in a winter setting

Your accommodation in Valais