From Interlaken: Wetterhorn Trail Snowshoe Hiking Tour

If you’re looking to experience the Swiss winter landscape without the need to ski or snowboard, the Wetterhorn Trail Snowshoe Hiking Tour offers a gentle yet memorable adventure. This guided trek from the charming village of Grindelwald delivers sweeping vistas of glaciers, mountain peaks, and snow-covered forests, all accessible even to those new to snowshoeing. It’s a great way to soak in the winter scenery comfortably and with a bit of guidance.

What we love about this tour is how it combines beautiful views with a laid-back pace—perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a relaxed outdoor experience. The inclusion of the Alpine Bird Park adds a charming touch, and transportation from Interlaken makes logistics straightforward. On the flip side, some travelers have noted that the guide’s attitude can vary, which is worth considering if you’re seeking a consistently upbeat experience. This outing suits anyone eager to enjoy the Swiss Alps at a gentle walking pace, especially non-skiers or families with older children.

Key Points

• Impressive scenery: Views of the Wetterhorn, Eiger’s north face, and the Grindelwald Glacier
• Accessible for most: Easy to moderate trail suitable for beginners and those with moderate fitness
• Includes essentials: Snowshoes, poles, snacks, and transport included
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides, primarily in English and German
• Timing flexibility: About 4 hours, with options to suit your schedule
• Potential for mixed reviews: Guide attitude can vary, so manage expectations accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour Overview: What to Expect

This snowshoe adventure kicks off outside the picturesque village of Grindelwald, a popular base for exploring the Bernese Oberland. The meeting point at the “OUTDOOR – Grindelwald Shoop and Café” is convenient, and transportation from Interlaken is included, making it simple to plan your day. Once you’re all set, the journey begins with a short transfer to the trailhead, where your guide will gear you up with snowshoes and poles—equipment that’s included in the tour price.

The route itself traverses a gentle climb through snow-covered forests and alpine meadows, offering a peaceful atmosphere away from the busier ski slopes. As you walk, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of iconic Swiss mountains—the Wetterhorn, Schwarzhorn, and the mighty Eiger looming overhead. The trail extends toward Grosse Scheidegg, with sights of the Upper Grindelwald Glacier and the First ski resort along the way. The terrain is designed to be accessible and not overly strenuous, making it a good choice for those who want to enjoy winter scenery without intense physical exertion.

An added highlight of the tour is the visit to the Alpine Bird Park, which provides an opportunity to observe local bird species in a natural setting. This makes the experience especially charming if you’re traveling with children or simply enjoy wildlife encounters. After exploring, the loop route gradually takes you back to the starting point, completing a well-rounded, scenic round trip.

The Scenery and Views

What sets this snowshoe hike apart is the wow-factor scenery. The views of the north face of the Eiger are spectacular—an iconic feature of the Bernese Alps—and the surrounding glaciers and peaks make for a truly breathtaking backdrop. We loved the way the snow transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, offering picture-perfect moments at every turn.

Several reviews echo this sentiment. For example, Antônio from Brazil calls the experience “amazing, beautiful scenery, and a peaceful, safe ride.” The mountain vistas are a major draw, and the guide’s local knowledge helps you appreciate what you’re seeing, even if you’re not a mountain expert. The trail’s orientation provides ample opportunity for photo stops, so be sure to bring your camera.

The Guides and Experience Quality

Guides play a vital role in ensuring your safety and enjoyment on this kind of activity, and here, most travelers have had positive experiences. The guide’s expertise is often highlighted, with Prassanna from the UK mentioning, “Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and made hiking in snow fun!” This kind of personal touch enhances the overall experience, making it more engaging and informative.

However, not all reviews are glowing. A particularly negative review from a UK traveler describes a rude guide with a bad attitude, which underscores that guide behavior can vary. If you’re someone who prefers a consistently lively or friendly guide, it’s worth noting that experiences may differ. That said, most reviewers appreciate the professionalism and knowledge the guides bring to the trek.

The Logistics: Price, Duration, and What’s Included

At $125 per person for about four hours, this tour is priced in line with similar snowshoeing experiences in the region. Considering that it includes snowshoes, poles, a snack, a drink, and transportation from Interlaken, the value seems fair for a guided outdoor activity in such a scenic setting.

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, which strikes a good balance—enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Starting times vary based on availability, so you’ll want to check ahead and select a slot that fits your schedule. The inclusion of transportation is especially helpful if you’re staying in Interlaken, as it takes the hassle out of organizing your own transfer.

The rental gear—snowshoes, poles, and hiking boots—is provided, but travelers are advised to bring warm clothing, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate gear. If you don’t have suitable winter clothes, rentals are available. The trail’s ease and accessibility make this suitable for most fitness levels, but note that it’s not designed for very young children (under 8) or those with certain health considerations.

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The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews paint a nuanced picture. Many praise the spectacular views and friendly, knowledgeable guides, with Georgina from the UK calling it a “lovely guide, great experience, a lot of fun!” But some express disappointment about group size or missing amenities, such as a snack not being available despite its mention in the description. Martin from Germany noted, “The group was too big,” which could affect the personal feel of the tour.

One common theme is that the area’s stunning scenery elevates the experience, even if some logistical hiccups occur. The guide’s ability to share insights about the landscape and wildlife enhances the overall value, making it more than just a walk in the snow.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This snowshoeing trip is ideal if you’re seeking a relaxing, scenic outdoor activity that doesn’t require advanced fitness or snowshoeing skills. It’s especially well-suited for non-skiers wanting to experience the Swiss winter landscape. Families with children over 8 who are comfortable in snow may also enjoy it, but younger kids might find the pace too leisurely.

It’s also great for travelers who appreciate guided experiences, as the knowledge shared by guides can deepen your understanding of the region’s natural beauty. Those looking for a physically demanding adventure might look elsewhere, but if you want a peaceful, picture-perfect outing, this tour fits the bill.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Snowshoe Tour Best For?

This Wetterhorn Trail snowshoe tour offers a lovely way to enjoy the Swiss Alps without the need for skiing or snowboarding. If you’re after stunning mountain views, easy terrain, and a relaxing atmosphere, you’ll find plenty to love here. The inclusion of transportation, gear, and a knowledgeable guide makes it a convenient and well-rounded experience.

It’s a particularly good fit for travelers who want a guided outdoor activity that’s accessible and safe, with a focus on scenery and wildlife. If you’re into photography, wildlife, or simply the serenity of snow-covered forests, this outing will not disappoint. Just keep in mind that guide attitudes can differ, and weather conditions can influence the experience.

Overall, it’s a respectable choice for anyone in Interlaken wanting a peaceful winter adventure that’s both scenic and manageable.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
This snowshoe tour isn’t recommended for children under 8 years old, mainly due to the pace and activity level. Older kids comfortable in snow and with walking endurance may enjoy it.

What should I wear?
Bring warm winter clothing, including gloves, a jacket, ski pants, and a beanie. Weather-appropriate gear is essential since you’ll be outdoors in snow. Rentals are available if needed.

Does the tour include snowshoes?
Yes, snowshoes and poles are provided as part of the tour package, along with hiking boots.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including transportation, walking, and stops.

What kind of views can I expect?
Expect to see views of the Wetterhorn, the north face of the Eiger, Grindelwald Glacier, and the Schwarzhorn. It’s a scenic route that highlights the dramatic mountain landscape.

Is this activity physically demanding?
Not really. It’s classified as easy to moderate, so most people with average fitness should be able to enjoy it without difficulty.

Do I need to bring my own food and drink?
A snack and drink are included, but bringing additional food or water is always a good idea, especially if you tend to get hungry or thirsty during outdoor activities.

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just someone looking to enjoy the winter scenery at a gentle pace, this snowshoe tour offers a lovely blend of nature, mountain views, and relaxed walking. It’s a peaceful way to experience Switzerland’s snow-covered landscapes—just make sure your clothing is warm, and your camera is ready.

You can check availability for your dates here: