Lötschberg north ramp
This walk along the Lötschberger railway walking trail is perfect for walking enthusiasts wishing to learn more about the railway, the Lötschberg mountain line and Kandertal.
The trail partially follows the tracks, but also leads high above the railway line and provides impressive views of viaducts and helical tunnels, as well as vistas of the beautiful Kandertal valley. Since summer 2019, newly designed information elements, seating and barbecue areas have been adding value to the hiking classic in the upper Kandertal. 34 information boards in four languages convey interesting facts about railway construction and the history of the region.
Travel comfortably by train to Kandersteg.
The hiking trail
The Lötschberg north ramp heads to Frutigen via Kandersteg train station and the church in Kandergrund.
Kandersteg
The village of Kandersteg lies at 1,200 m and offers a fantastic view of the Blümlisalp massif. With its large number of attractive mountain, hiking and walking trails, Kandersteg is a paradise for nature lovers and walking enthusiasts. The first panel on the railway hiking trail awaits you at Eggenschwand at the northern portal of the Lötschberg Tunnel.
Blausee lake
The small, deep-blue Blausee lake is a magical place, situated in the midst of a nature park in the Bernese Oberland. Thanks to its special colour, it is one of the most popular and best-known lakes in Switzerland.
Frutigen
At the end of the hike in Frutigen, sights include the portal of the Lötschberg Base Tunnel. If you plan in some extra time, you can end your walk with a visit to the Tropical House in Frutigen. Take in the impressive sturgeon breeding facility and the tropical plants.
Distances and shortcuts
Anyone wishing to shorten the walk, which takes around 5 hours and 15 minutes, can simply take the bus from Kandersteg to Mitholz and from there walk the most varied core section to Kandergrund.
The walking time for the entire route (19 km) is approx. 5 hours 15 mins. There are several options for shortening the walk. The walking trail leads past three bus stops (“Mitholz, Balmhorn, Blausee” and “Kandergrund, Altels”) and can thus be shortened.
Shortest route, Eggenschwand–Kandersteg Station: 40 mins
Kandersteg Station–Mitholz–Frutigen: 4 hours 35 mins
Frutigen–Innerkandergrund: 1 hour 40 mins
Mitholz–Innerkandergrund: 1 hour 10 mins
Kandersteg Station–Blausee–Mitholz: 1 hour 45 mins
Guided railway walk
A guided railway walk from Blausee–Mitholz to Kandergrund takes place several times a year.
Availability
The Lötschberger railway walking trail is generally accessible from April to November.
Subject to change without prior notice
Rates
The Lötschberger railway walking trail can be used free of charge.
BLS suggestion
Combine the hike with a visit to the BLS Visitor Centre in the historic Frutigen train station.
Arrival
Food & Drink
- Gasthof Altels Kandergrund
- Restaurant Balmhorn Blausee-Mitholz
- Restaurant Blausee Blausee
