Best Shops Where to Rent Hiking Poles in Interlaken

Interlaken features several excellent outdoor shops located very conveniently near the main train stations. Outdoor Interlaken is a very popular choice for many international visitors looking for quality gear. They offer high-quality telescopic poles that can fit quite easily into your small day pack. You can find their main shop on Hauptstrasse located very close to the town center.

Intersport Rent-Network is another reliable option for every hiker visiting the beautiful Interlaken region. They have multiple locations including a very large store near the Interlaken West train station. This makes it very easy to pick up gear before you start your morning hike. Their professional staff provides expert advice on the best equipment for all local mountain trails.

Velo-Center Amacher also provides rental equipment for various mountain activities throughout the busy summer season. While they focus on bikes, they often stock essential hiking accessories for many active travelers. Checking their current stock in advance is a smart move for the busy summer months. Most shops are open from 8:30 AM until 6:00 PM every day of the week.

• Outdoor Interlaken: Best for high-end technical gear.
• Intersport Rent-Network: Most convenient locations near stations.
• Velo-Center Amacher: Great for combined bike and hike rentals.
• Local Sports Centers: Good for last-minute basic equipment needs.

Rental Costs and Booking Tips for 2026

Renting hiking poles in Interlaken is very affordable for the majority of travelers visiting Switzerland. You should expect to pay between 10 and 15 Swiss Francs for a daily rental. Many shops offer significant discounts if you choose to rent poles for several consecutive days. This is perfect for those planning a full week of exploring the scenic walks in Interlaken 2026.

You should definitely book your equipment online during the peak summer season in the Swiss Alps. July and August are very busy months for tourism throughout the entire Jungfrau mountain region. Reserving ahead ensures your size and preferred pole type are available when you finally arrive. Check the Interlaken hiking gear tips for more detailed booking advice.

Most rental shops require a valid ID or a small cash deposit for security reasons. Ensure you bring your passport or a credit card to cover the required security hold. Always inspect the locking mechanism of the poles before you leave the rental shop. This prevents any unexpected issues while you are high up on the rugged mountain trails.

Why You Need Poles for Interlaken Trails

The terrain around Interlaken is often very steep and can be quite rocky and uneven. Hiking poles provide much-needed stability on difficult paths like the Harder Kulm panorama trails. They help you maintain balance when crossing small mountain streams or walking on loose gravel. Using poles also engages your upper body during the long climb to the mountain peaks.

Descending from high peaks can be very hard on your knees and your ankle joints. Poles absorb a significant portion of the impact on your body during these long descents. This allows you to hike much longer distances without feeling any excessive physical fatigue. You will feel much more confident on slippery or muddy sections of the local trails.

Many local paths feature significant elevation changes within a very short walking distance. Poles help you maintain a steady rhythm while you are walking uphill toward the summits. This conservation of energy is vital for reaching those stunning and famous mountain viewpoints. Even experienced hikers benefit from the extra support poles provide on the varied Swiss terrain.

How to Choose the Right Poles for Your Hike

Most rental shops in Interlaken offer adjustable aluminum or very lightweight carbon fiber poles. Aluminum poles are very durable and perfect for the most rugged mountain paths in Switzerland. Carbon fiber options are lighter but they can be more expensive to rent per day. Choose the material that best fits your personal budget and your specific physical needs.

Make sure the poles have comfortable wrist straps and ergonomic grips for your long walks. Cork grips are excellent for preventing sweaty hands during the warm and sunny summer hikes. Ensure the height is adjustable so you can set them correctly for your own height. Your elbows should form a perfect 90-degree angle when standing on flat ground.

Consider the type of baskets attached to the bottom of the poles for your trip. Small baskets are ideal for hard-packed dirt and the rocky Swiss trails near the town. If you encounter soft mud, larger baskets will prevent the poles from sinking too deep. You should also check the what shoes to wear for Interlaken walks to match your gear.