Hikes

Through the Binntal landscape park: Imfeld–Mässersee–Binn

Binn

0/8°

Hike through the Binntal, which is known for its pristine landscapes with historic villages and its mineral wealth. A gem in the middle of the Binntal landscape park.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

9.44 km

Duration

3:45 h

Aussicht auf den Landschaftspark Binntal

Description

In the heart of the Binntal landscape park lies the valley that gave the park its name: the Binntal. Until about half a century ago, the valley was cut off from the outside world in winter. Only the construction of a tunnel in 1965 made year-round access possible. Nevertheless, the valley has been able to retain its original charm.

The Binntal became especially known for its mineral wealth. More than 200 different minerals have been found here – more than half of them in the Lengenbach mineral mine. The hike begins on the fascinating geological trail from the hamlet of Imfeld (also called Fäld) and leads to the gates of the mineral mine. Here, the snow-white dolomite marble can be searched for fool's gold (pyrite).

From the mineral mine, the path follows the southern slope of the valley through various ecosystems of the very special nature park. From Mässeralp, the path climbs steeply up to the idyllic Mässersee before descending to the lush meadows of Manibode. This peaceful spot with branched mountain streams amid red rocks and blooming alpine roses invites you to a picnic stop. The path then leaves the high valley and passes fragrant pine forests before descending into the village of Binn.

The Binntal is known not only for its mineral deposits as the “Valley of Hidden Treasures,” but also because of the wonderfully preserved historic villages. Binn won the heritage conservation prize in 1992 – the hamlet “Fäld” in turn received the Archicultura Foundation Medal in 1998 for its intact, harmonious, and picturesque village appearance. In Binn is the historic Hotel Ofenhorn, which opened in the Belle Epoque in 1883 and was restored while preserving the historic elements.

Highlights of the hike

The wild and untouched surroundings of the Binntal landscape park with forests, lakes, and mountain streams accompanied by an impressive view.
Geological theme trail and the opportunity to find minerals and crystals in nature.
Beautifully preserved mountain villages.

Turn-by-turn directions

The starting point is the hamlet of Imfeld (Fäld), where the route crosses the mountain stream “Binna” before leading up to the Lengenbach mineral mine. First, the route briefly follows the road. Then, on the geological theme trail, you reach the mineral mine directly. Using hand lenses, you can discover the various rocks of the valley. A “rocky” musical instrument also provides an interesting stopover.

From the mineral mine, the path climbs steeply up to the Mässeralp. At the Schäre area, at an altitude of almost 2000 meters, the path then branches off for the loop towards Mässersee and Manibode. Back at Schäre, the route leads left through the pine forests into the village of Binn.

Start

Hamlet Imfeld (Fäld) (1517m)

Destination

Binn village (1400m)

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Author's recommendation

Visit the Binn Regional Museum, which provides information on archaeology, minerals, and the local history of the region. The museum is located in the former annex of the Hotel Ofenhorn.

Technical information

Altitude

2167m

1400m

Ascent

+649m

Descent

-767m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

Public transport

Regular train connections with the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn to Fiesch, then by post bus to Binn. After another transfer, the Bus Alpin takes you to Imfeld (Fäld). Detailed timetables for trains and post buses are available at sbb.ch. You can find the Bus Alpin timetables here: Bus Alpin

Approach

A9 motorway to Brig, then Furka road to Lax. Shortly after the village of Lax, turn toward Ernen / Binn / Imfeld. Park your car either at the start or end point of the hike and use the Bus Alpin to Imfeld.

Parking

Large parking lot outside the village of Binn or the hamlet of Imfeld. Follow the local parking guidance system for this.

Equipment

We recommend:

Good footwear
Weather-dependent clothing: always carry a waterproof vest
Headgear
Sunscreen
Water bottle
Picnic
Camera
Binoculars (optional)
Hiking poles (optional)
Printout of the hiking trail (click "Print" to download)

For certain hikes:

Swimsuit

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 for nature and agriculture. Respectful behavior allows everyone to enjoy their leisure activities under the best conditions. Inform yourself about recommendations and rules. Assess your own skills and fitness well. Using the different routes is always at your own risk.

For all hikes:

Carry a map with you. Download the complete description of the trail with a large-scale map by clicking "Print" at the top right of the page.
Use only marked hiking trails and observe all signs and instructions – for your own safety, to protect grazing animals, and out of respect for wildlife.
Close gates after passing through.
Be considerate towards other trail users, plants, and animals.

For mountain hikes:

Carry additional sunscreen. UV rays at high altitudes can be very strong, even on cloudy days.
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 quickly and without warning. Appropriate clothing and enough 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 going alone.
Do not venture onto glaciers without a mountain guide.
Observe warning signs indicating dangers at riverbanks, along watercourses below dams and reservoirs: water levels can rise quickly and without warning.

Right way to go

Preparing for a hike