Classic walk along the Lötschberger southern approach
This walking trail leads along the more than 100-year-old Lötschberg mountain line from Hohtenn via Ausserberg, Eggerberg and Lalden to Brig.
The route continues to fascinate walkers of all ages. On this walk, you will encounter both Alpine and southern vegetation, as well as plenty of beautiful views into the Rhone Valley. Along the way, you will see not only typical old Valais houses, but also feats of early-twentieth-century railway engineering.
BLS takes you comfortably to your chosen starting point and back home again.
Attention: Due to storm damage, the hiking route is restricted. The Hohtenn - Brigerbad route is open. The route from the Brigerbad tunnel to Naters will remain closed until the end of May. Further information on the lockdown can be found here
Directions
You can walk the 26-kilometre length of the Lötschberger southern approach either as a whole or in stages. The starting points are the stations at Hohtenn, Ausserberg, Eggerberg, Lalden, Dorf and Brig. Most walkers tackle the southern approach heading towards Brig, though it is equally charming when walked in the opposite direction.
In Bietschtal, the walking trail follows the embankment of the old construction railway. En route you will also see the impressive irrigation channels (Suonen) that wend their way along the steep, craggy slopes for many kilometres and serve as testimony to the courage and skill of their creators.
There is more southern approach than ever before thanks to the Lalden-Naters-Brig section of the trail.
The Lötschberg southern approach was extended from Lalden via Naters to Brig in 2013. The new section of trail leads, among other things, over traditionally constructed natural stone steps and along the Driestneri-Suone.
Basic information
| Start | Hohtenn Railway Station |
| Finish | Brig Railway Station |
| Distance | approx. 26 km |
| Duration | 8 hours 20 minutes (Hohtenn–Brig) |
| Difficulty level | medium |
Tip
- Between Rarnerchumma and Riedgarto via the BLS railway bridge. This will save you over 30 minutes of time.
- On the way, there are numerous opportunities for side tours down into the valley or higher up into the Alps
Availability Today (Wednesday) open
The entire trail from Brig to Hohtenn is closed until further notice due to storm damage.
Food & Drink
- Bärgbeizli Rarnerchumma Ausserberg
- Biohof Fischerbiel Ausserberg
- Hotel Restaurant Bahnhof Ausserberg
- Restaurant Cécile Brigerbad
- Restaurant Jungfrau-Aletsch Naters
- Buffet Brig Brig
Guided railway walk
A guided railway walk from Hohtenn to Ausserberg takes place several times a year.
