Eiger Trail
Hike beneath the legendary Eiger North Face, experiencing breathtaking alpine panoramas and dramatic mountain scenery.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light and fewer crowds
Eiger Trail
Best Time
Best light and fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike beneath the legendary Eiger North Face, experiencing breathtaking alpine panoramas and dramatic mountain scenery.
"Standing in awe of the imposing north face of the Eiger is an unforgettable experience."
Wear Layers! 🧥
The temperature drops significantly near the north face. Bring a jacket, even in summer!
Sturdy Hiking Boots 🥾
The trail can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Legendary North Face
Base of the Eiger Mountain
Stand in awe of the imposing north face of the Eiger, a truly iconic and breathtaking sight.

Panoramic Alpine Vistas
Along the trail
Enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding Bernese Alps, including the Mönch and Jungfrau peaks.

Alpine Meadows and Waterfalls
Trailside
Experience the beauty of lush alpine meadows dotted with charming waterfalls along your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for the Alps
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Layers! 🧥
The temperature drops significantly near the north face. Bring a jacket, even in summer!
Sturdy Hiking Boots 🥾
The trail can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike.
Check Trail Status ⚠️
Especially outside peak season, verify trail conditions as snow can linger or appear.
Start at Eigergletscher 🚠
Take the gondola from Grindelwald Terminal for easy access to the trail's start.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Layers! 🧥
The temperature drops significantly near the north face. Bring a jacket, even in summer!
Sturdy Hiking Boots 🥾
The trail can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike.
Check Trail Status ⚠️
Especially outside peak season, verify trail conditions as snow can linger or appear.
Start at Eigergletscher 🚠
Take the gondola from Grindelwald Terminal for easy access to the trail's start.
Hydrate and Snack 🍎
Carry plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks for your trek.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Eiger Trail for its absolutely stunning, jaw-dropping views of the Eiger's north face and the surrounding Alps. The accessibility via gondola and the manageable length for a day hike are also frequently highlighted as positives. Some find the trail colder than expected and advise packing extra layers.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common starting point for the Eiger Trail is the Eigergletscher station. You can reach this by taking the gondola from Grindelwald Terminal. This scenic ride offers stunning views as you ascend.
Alternatively, some hikers start at Alpiglen and hike up to Eigergletscher. The trail is often described as a circular route, with options to start or end at either Alpiglen or Eigergletscher.Yes, the Eiger Trail is very accessible via public transport. The Jungfrau Railway system connects Grindelwald to Eigergletscher station, making it easy to reach the trailhead.
Grindelwald is well-connected by train. You can easily reach it from major Swiss cities like Bern, Interlaken, and Zurich. The train journey itself offers beautiful alpine scenery.
While you can drive to Grindelwald, parking can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use the efficient Swiss public transport system to reach the area and the trailhead.
The primary access is via the Eigergletscher gondola. While there aren't dedicated shuttle services specifically for the trail itself, the extensive train and cable car network in the Jungfrau region makes getting around very convenient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the trail itself is free to hike, you will need to purchase tickets for the gondola or train to reach the starting point at Eigergletscher station.
Prices vary depending on your starting point and any travel passes you might have.The Eiger Trail is generally open during the summer months when snow has melted. It's crucial to check the official Jungfrau Railways website or local tourist information for current opening dates and times, as these can vary annually.
The cost is primarily for the transportation to the trailhead. A round-trip ticket from Grindelwald Terminal to Eigergletscher can range from CHF 60-80, but this can be significantly reduced with a Swiss Travel Pass or Jungfrau Travel Pass.
The Eiger Trail is typically closed in winter due to snow and avalanche risk. It's a summer hiking trail. Always check conditions before planning a visit outside of the main summer season.
Yes, holders of a Swiss Travel Pass, Half Fare Card, or Jungfrau Travel Pass often receive discounts on the gondola and train tickets to Eigergletscher. It's worth checking these options if you plan on using public transport extensively in Switzerland.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Eiger Trail is generally considered a moderate hike. It's about 6 km (3.7 miles) long and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. While not technically difficult, it involves some elevation change and can be rocky.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking boots with good grip. Dress in layers, as the temperature can change significantly. Include a waterproof and windproof jacket, even in summer, due to the altitude and proximity to the mountain.
The hike from Eigergletscher to Alpiglen typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, covering approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles).
This can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the views.Restroom facilities are generally available at the Eigergletscher and Alpiglen stations, which mark the start and end points of the main trail. There may be limited facilities along the trail itself.
The Eiger Trail can be suitable for older children who are accustomed to hiking. It's important to assess your child's stamina and ensure they have appropriate footwear and clothing. The stunning views and unique experience can be very engaging for kids.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire trail offers incredible photo opportunities! Key spots include the direct views of the Eiger's north face, panoramic vistas of the Mönch and Jungfrau, and scenic overlooks of the valleys below.
Don't forget to capture the alpine meadows and any waterfalls you encounter.Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues. However, the dramatic presence of the Eiger's north face is impressive at any time of day.
A good quality smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing the stunning scenery. If you're serious about landscape photography, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens would be ideal for capturing the vast alpine panoramas.
There are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use on the Eiger Trail. However, always be mindful of other hikers and avoid blocking the path.
Expect dramatic shots of the Eiger's imposing north face, sweeping panoramas of the surrounding peaks, charming shots of alpine flora, and breathtaking views down into the valleys.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as options on the trail are limited. Dress children in layers, including waterproofs, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. Consider starting at Eigergletscher and hiking down to Alpiglen, which is generally easier than hiking uphill. The 2-3 hour duration is manageable for most active children.
⛰️ Adventure Seekers & Trail Runners
Recommendations for adventurers: Invest in high-quality trail running shoes with excellent grip, like those designed by Eiger for challenging conditions. Ensure you have a reliable hydration system and energy gels or bars. Familiarize yourself with the Eiger Trail route and be prepared for rapid weather shifts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Eiger Trail: A Hiker's Perspective
The trail typically runs from the Eigergletscher station down to Alpiglen, a distance of about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles). The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, making it a manageable yet incredibly rewarding day hike. Along the way, you'll traverse rocky terrain, pass by cascading waterfalls, and wander through vibrant alpine meadows. The views are consistently spectacular, encompassing not only the Eiger but also its majestic neighbors, the Mönch and Jungfrau peaks.
Many hikers emphasize the importance of being prepared for changing weather conditions. Even on a sunny summer day, the temperature can drop significantly as you get closer to the imposing north face. Packing layers, including a waterproof jacket, is highly recommended. Sturdy hiking boots are also essential due to the uneven and sometimes rocky nature of the path. The Eiger Trail is more than just a walk; it's an adventure that connects you directly with the raw power and beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Trail Running the Eiger
Specialized gear, such as lightweight, breathable trail running shoes with excellent grip, is crucial for tackling this route at speed. Brands like Eiger themselves offer footwear designed for such challenging conditions, emphasizing comfort and performance on varied surfaces. The Eiger Speed BOA GTX boots, for instance, are noted for their technical advancements, including a BOA Fit System for micro-adjustments, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit during intense runs.
Running the Eiger Trail offers a unique perspective on the mountain's grandeur, allowing participants to experience its scale and beauty at a faster pace. It's an ultimate test of endurance and skill, set against one of the most breathtaking backdrops in the world.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit