Hikes

Gemmipass to Kandersteg

Leukerbad

10/25°

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

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

8.52 km

Duration

3:00 h

Die Aussichtsplattform beim Gemmi Lodge 2350 mit dem Ausblick auf Leukerbad

Description

The historic pass crossing from Leukerbad over the Gemmi Pass into the Bernese Oberland is the classic par excellence. Once the ascent from Leukerbad through the rock towers of the Gemmi region is complete, a leisurely, mostly downhill hiking trail to Kandersteg awaits mountain walkers. Those who like it more strenuous start in Kandersteg and complete the change of canton to the Valais from the Bernese Oberland.

The trail from the Gemmi Pass leads along the Daubensee Lake via Schwarenbach to Sunnbüel. From here you can reach Kandersteg by foot or cable car. While the landscape on the Gemmi is rough and barren, colourful flower meadows line the hiking trail further down at Spittelmatte.

Turn-by-turn directions

On a secured path you reach the top of the pass within two hours. The ascent on foot through the Gemmiwand offers unique views of the steep rock faces that surround Leukerbad. This path has been in existence since the 15th century.

Alternatively, the Gemmi cable car takes you to the top of the pass in 6 minutes. Here you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Valais Alps. The hiking trail leads along the right bank of the Daubensee Lake to Schwarenbach and on via Alpe "Spittelmatte" to Sunnbüel/Stock. In the last section, the trail descends via the winding path to Eggenschwand/Kandersteg. From Eggenschwand, a hiking trail leads along the left bank of the Kander to Kandersteg. Alternatively, walk along the road or take the bus to the village centre.

Start

Gemmipass (2340m)

Destination

Sunnbüel (1933m)

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Author's recommendation

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

If you don't suffer from vertigo and would like to avoid the steep ascent to the Gemmi, you can reach the top of the pass in 6 minutes with the Gemmi cable car. Find out about any round trip tickets at the Gemmi (or Kandersteg) valley station.

Technical information

Altitude

2340m

1871m

Ascent

+69m

Descent

-475m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

Public transport

Leuk can be reached by train (SBB), then by bus (LLB - Leuk Leukerbad Bus Reisen) to the starting point in Leukerbad and up to the Gemmi Pass on the Gemmi cable car.

Approach

From Basel and Zurich: A1 motorway to Bern; A6 to Spiez; direction Kandersteg; Kandersteg - Goppenstein car transport; direction Gampel; Leuk - Leukerbad.

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

From Milan: Motorway A8/A26 direction Simplon; car transport Iselle-Brig; direction Leuk - Leukerbad.

Parking

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

Car parks in Leukerbad: Gemmi parking, Sportarena parking, Rathaus parking, Torrent parking, Leukerbad Therme parking, Alpentherme parking.

Equipment

Use of the trails and the information on this website is at hikers’ own risk. Local conditions may entail changes to routes. We assume no responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the information on this website.

For all hikes:

Bring a map. Download full description of this route including large-scale map by clicking on «Print» icon, top right of this page.
Use marked trails only, and observe all signposting – for your own safety, to safeguard grazing animals and to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Close gates after passing through.
Please be considerate to other trail users, and to the plants and animals.
Do not leave any waste in nature.

For mountain hikes:

Take extra care protecting yourself from the sun at altitude. UV radiation can be exceptionally strong, even in cloudy weather.
Plan hike carefully: take into consideration fitness level of each participant, weather forecast and season.
Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, without warning. Appropriate clothing is therefore essential, along with adequate supplies of food and water. In uncertain weather, turn back in good time.

For high-altitude hikes:

Inform others of the route you plan to take. Whenever possible, avoid going alone.
Do not venture onto glaciers without a mountain guide.
Take note of the warning signs that point out the constant danger in river beds and along watercourses below dams and reservoirs: water levels may rise rapidly without warning.

Safety information

The mountains are a place of pleasure to be shared and respected, offering space in which to meet up and share unforgettable moments, whether by bike or on foot. For all outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy them properly, it is essential that mountains are shared in a way that respects both Nature and agriculture. Respectful behaviour enables everyone to enjoy their hobby in the best possible conditions. Find out about the recommendations and rules in place.

When planning, take into account participants’ fitness level and ability. All riding is at one’s own risk.

Additional information

The tourist office in Leukerbad has got brochures and information material about hiking in the region and will give you detailled information about this hike.

Preparing your hike

Status of the facilities