Getting Started on the Eiger Trail

For the most up-to-date details, check Grindelwald travel info before you go.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Grindelwald travel info.

Check how to get to Eigergletscher station for travel details. The ride takes only fifteen minutes in 2026. You will see amazing views of the valley below. Ensure you buy your tickets early in the morning.

Grindelwald serves as the perfect base for this hike. The town offers many hotels and gear shops. You can catch a train to the Terminal easily. Most local buses also stop at the cable car station.

The Eiger Express uses modern tricable technology for stability. It operates even during moderately windy conditions. You will soar over pine forests and rocky cliffs. The station at the top has a small shop.

Eiger Trail Hiking Guide 2026: Route Details

The trail covers about six kilometers in total distance. Most hikers finish the walk in three hours. It leads you directly under the Eiger North Face. You will feel the power of the high peaks.

The path is mostly downhill if you start at Eigergletscher. This direction is easier on your lungs but harder on knees. You will descend toward the Alpiglen train station. Many people prefer this route for the constant views.

Is the path too hard for your skill level? Read how difficult is the Eiger Trail before you start. The terrain is rocky and can be quite slippery. Watch your step on the loose limestone stones.

The elevation drop is roughly 800 meters from start to finish. This descent requires strong legs and good balance. You will cross several small mountain streams along the way. These streams are cold but very refreshing in summer.

Essential Gear for the Swiss Alps

Proper footwear is vital for this alpine mountain trek. The trail features many sharp rocks and uneven ground. Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are highly recommended. Do not attempt this walk in thin sneakers.

Check the best footwear for Eiger Trail for specific gear advice. You should also bring layers for changing weather. Even in July, the mountain air stays very cool. A waterproof jacket is a must for every hiker.

Mountain weather changes quickly in the Bernese Oberland region. Check the weather conditions for Eiger Trail in July 2026 daily. Storms can arrive without much warning in the afternoon. Always carry a physical map or a GPS device.

Sun protection is another critical item for your packing list. The high altitude makes the sun rays very strong. Apply high-factor sunscreen before you begin your mountain walk. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright glare.

Best Photography Spots Along the North Face

The Eiger North Face provides a dramatic backdrop for photos. You will find several waterfalls along the rocky path. The contrast between green grass and grey rock is beautiful. Early morning light offers the best shadows for pictures.

Use photography tips for Eiger North Face to improve your shots. Capture the scale of the mountain by including people. Wide-angle lenses work best for these massive alpine vistas. Don't forget to look back toward the Kleine Scheidegg.

The view toward the Grindelwald valley is equally impressive. You can see the Wetterhorn mountain in the distance. Lush green meadows fill the valley floor far below. This creates a perfect frame for your vacation photos.

Wildlife often appears near the quieter sections of the trail. Keep your camera ready for marmots or mountain goats. These animals blend into the grey rocks very well. Stay quiet to avoid scaring them away from the path.

Costs and Practical Logistics for 2026

Hiking the trail itself is free for all visitors. However, you must pay for the mountain transport. A one-way ticket to Eigergletscher costs about 40 CHF. Prices may vary slightly during the 2026 peak season.

You can use a Swiss Travel Pass for discounts. This pass often provides 50% off mountain railway tickets. The Jungfrau Travel Pass is another great option for tourists. It covers most lifts in the Grindelwald area.

Plan to start your hike before ten in the morning. This helps you avoid the largest afternoon tourist crowds. Pack plenty of water and some high-energy snacks. There are no shops along the trail until Alpiglen.

The train from Alpiglen back to Grindelwald runs frequently. It takes about twenty minutes to reach the town center. Make sure to check the final train time of day. Missing the last train means a long walk down.