Lauterbrunnen Valley Trail
Experience the 'Valley of 72 Waterfalls,' a breathtaking Swiss alpine paradise with dramatic cliffs, lush meadows, and iconic peaks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Lauterbrunnen Valley Trail
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the 'Valley of 72 Waterfalls,' a breathtaking Swiss alpine paradise with dramatic cliffs, lush meadows, and iconic peaks.
"It felt like I was in paradise. I had a great time there. Make sure to go on a sunny day!"
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You don't need heavy gear, but good walking shoes are essential for enjoying the trails.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during summer, carry plenty of water as some sections can be exposed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Staubbach Falls Vista
Lauterbrunnen Village
Capture the iconic view of Staubbach Falls with the charming Lauterbrunnen church in the background. A popular photo spot!
Via Ferrata Mürren
Mürren Cliffside
For thrill-seekers, this exhilarating via ferrata offers stunning valley views and a unique perspective. Not for the faint of heart!
Valley of 72 Waterfalls
Lauterbrunnen Valley
Immerse yourself in the dramatic landscape, with the constant whisper and roar of numerous waterfalls cascading down the cliffs.
Panoramic Mountain Views
Various trail sections
On clear days, enjoy unparalleled views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. A truly unforgettable alpine panorama.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Downhill Advantage
Weather is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You don't need heavy gear, but good walking shoes are essential for enjoying the trails.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during summer, carry plenty of water as some sections can be exposed.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera or phone to document the stunning scenery and waterfalls.
🚊 Utilize Cable Cars
Consider taking cable cars up to higher points for easier downhill hikes.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You don't need heavy gear, but good walking shoes are essential for enjoying the trails.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during summer, carry plenty of water as some sections can be exposed.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera or phone to document the stunning scenery and waterfalls.
🚊 Utilize Cable Cars
Consider taking cable cars up to higher points for easier downhill hikes.
🐄 Watch for Cows
You might encounter cows along the routes; they are part of the scenic experience!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Lauterbrunnen Valley Trail for its unparalleled natural beauty, describing it as paradise with stunning mountain views and numerous waterfalls. The downhill nature of many popular routes makes it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of hikers. While generally well-maintained, some reviewers note that winter conditions can make trails icy and challenging.
"The best hiking I’ve ever done in my life. Nice views of the mountains. The weather was perfect. It felt like I was in paradise. I had a great time there. Make sure to go on a sunny day!"
Luan Modotti
"Amazing trail! Pretty easy to walk, so definitely don't need significant gear (decent shoes and a bottle of water will do). Lots of cows, and great views throughout! And also, very quiet in general, which is nice for a scenic hike.
I passed by only 2 people on this beautiful day. Highly recommend starting in Allmendhubel (take the tram up) and walking doward to Mürren."
Angela A.
"A great summer hike: on a sunny day, gives you a perfect view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Note that there are two ways to get to Mürren from Grütschalp - via this trail (route 351), and via the easier road path (1 hr). This trail takes 2-3 hrs long with a 520m. altitude gain. In the high summer, it can be quite exposed and plenty of water is recommended. Cows may be present along the route."
Katherine Gadaingan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Lauterbrunnen by train from major Swiss cities. From Lauterbrunnen village, you can access various trailheads. Many visitors start hikes from Mürren or Wengen, accessible by cable car or cogwheel train from the valley floor.
Yes, there is a large parking garage near the Lauterbrunnen train station. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as it can fill up.
The 'Lauterbrunnen Valley Trail' can refer to various routes. A popular option is hiking from Grutschalp down to Mürren, or exploring trails within the valley itself, often connecting to waterfalls.
You can take a cable car from Lauterbrunnen to Grütschalp, then a scenic train to Mürren. Alternatively, a cable car from Stechelberg also goes up to Mürren.
Yes, buses operate within the Lauterbrunnen Valley, connecting key points like Lauterbrunnen village to Stechelberg, which is a good starting point for some hikes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The trails themselves are generally free to access. However, you will need to purchase tickets for cable cars, gondolas, and cogwheel trains if you plan to use them to reach higher starting points or return to the valley.
The hiking trails are accessible year-round, though conditions can vary significantly with the seasons. Winter can bring snow and ice, making some trails challenging or impassable.
The waterfalls themselves are natural attractions and do not have entrance fees. Accessing viewpoints or specific areas around them is generally free.
The Via Ferrata Mürren requires specific equipment and often guided tours, which come with a fee. Check with local providers for pricing and booking information.
A Swiss Travel Pass can offer significant discounts or free travel on many trains, buses, and boats, including some cable cars leading to hiking areas. It's worth considering if you plan extensive travel.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Difficulty varies greatly depending on the specific trail chosen. Many popular routes, like the one from Grütschalp to Mürren, are considered moderate and largely downhill. More challenging alpine hikes are also available.
Hike durations can range from 1-2 hours for shorter valley walks to 4-6 hours or more for longer alpine routes. The trail from Grütschalp to Mürren typically takes 2-3 hours.
Restrooms and dining options are more common in the villages like Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, and Wengen. Some higher mountain huts may offer refreshments.
Yes, there are family-friendly options like the Lieselotte trail near Mürren, which features activity stations. The main valley floor offers easier, flatter paths.
You might see cows grazing in alpine meadows, and various bird species. Keep an eye out for marmots in higher alpine areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include the view of Staubbach Falls with the church, panoramic vistas from higher trails, and charming village scenes. Many TikTok and Instagram creators share their favorite locations.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape photography, creating dramatic shadows and golden hues.
Drone regulations can be strict in Switzerland, especially near national parks and populated areas. Always check local rules and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
A lightweight camera with a versatile lens is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for mountain details. A sturdy tripod can be useful for waterfall shots.
Yes, many waterfalls are visible directly from the valley floor or accessible via short paths. Staubbach Falls and Trümmelbach Falls (which has an entrance fee) are prominent examples.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider taking the cable car up to Mürren or Wengen for easier access to family-friendly trails and stunning views without strenuous climbs. The cogwheel train ride itself is often an adventure for kids! Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for the sheer wonder of the waterfalls, which are always a hit with younger visitors.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Look into purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass if you plan on using public transport extensively, as it can significantly reduce the cost of trains, buses, and cable cars. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) when accommodation prices might be lower and crowds thinner.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to photograph the numerous waterfalls cascading down the cliffs; they add a dynamic element to the scenery. For unique perspectives, consider the Via Ferrata Mürren (if you're adventurous) or explore the charming alpine villages. Remember to check drone regulations if you plan on aerial photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Valley's Waterfalls
For a more immersive experience, consider visiting Trümmelbach Falls, a unique system of ten glacier-waterfalls inside the mountain, accessible via a tunnel lift. While there's an entrance fee, it offers a powerful and unforgettable encounter with nature's force.
Many hiking trails offer constant views of these waterfalls, their mist often creating rainbows on sunny days. The sound of rushing water is a constant companion as you explore the valley floor or ascend to higher viewpoints.
Hiking Trails for Every Level
More adventurous hikers can tackle routes like the hike from Grütschalp to Mürren, which is largely downhill and offers spectacular panoramas. For experienced trekkers, challenging alpine routes like the hike to Rottalhütte provide significant elevation gain and demanding terrain, rewarding with unparalleled mountain vistas.
Popular trails often connect villages like Mürren and Wengen, allowing you to combine hiking with scenic train or cable car rides. Always check trail conditions, especially outside of summer, as snow and ice can make some routes treacherous.
The Thrill of Via Ferrata and Adventure
This activity is not for the faint of heart and requires a good head for heights. Participants are secured with a safety cable, allowing them to navigate the route with confidence. It's an excellent way to experience the dramatic landscape from a different perspective, and you might even spot BASE jumpers or paragliders.
While the Via Ferrata is a standout adventure, the general atmosphere of Lauterbrunnen also attracts extreme sports enthusiasts, with videos showing daring jumps into the valley. Always ensure you have the proper gear and consider a guided tour if you're new to via ferrata.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit