14 Breathtaking Views in Switzerland That Are Surprisingly Dangerous for Hikers
Stepping into Switzerland is stepping into a fairytale, with its postcard-perfect landscapes. It’s a magnet for adventurers from everywhere on the globe thanks to towering peaks, shimmering alpine lakes, and picturesque valleys. However, its tranquil beauty should not fool you. Beneath the charm are trails that would give even the bravest hiker pause. These routes are not easy, they are dangerously thrilling.
Of course, Switzerland’s reputation for safety and order precedes it but Mother Nature also has her rules here. Beyond boots made for enduring, exploring these breathtaking spots requires surviving sudden weather changes, narrow cliff-side paths, and the unknown of where you might pop up. So if you’re ready to see Switzerland off the beaten track, strap on your gear and your courage and read on to learn about some of the most beautiful, yet dangerous places to go hiking in the country.
Matterhorn Glacier Trail
One of Switzerland’s most iconic peaks is in view on just a short hike using the Matterhorn Glacier Trail. Still, there is a price to pay for this beauty. Stable scree slopes and icy areas are filled through the trail. One wrong step here and you’re slipping to a dangerous plummet. Add that in with unpredictable weather patterns and the stakes are even higher.
Hardergrat Ridge
For thrill-seekers, Hardergrat Ridge is a dream; for anyone scared of heights, a nightmare. A narrow, knife-edge trail follows the Brienzersee with panoramic views for as far as the eye can see. But from steep drops on both sides, without railings to catch a fall, every step feels like dancing a rope tightrope. You may have unforgettable views, but you also have an unforgettable adrenaline rush to make it back safely.
Hohtürli Pass
As with the classic Kandersteg hike, the Hohtürli Pass is as much a challenge as it is beautiful. You’ll get to climb relentlessly, with steep switchbacks, testing even seasoned hikers. The altitude can leave you gasping for breath above 9,000 feet, and loose rocks on the path make it even harder. In the summer, it’s not unusual to encounter snowfields (on this trek), so it’s best left to the prepared and persistent.
Eiger Trail
On the Eiger Trail, you walk below the famous North Face of the Eiger, a mountain that’s part of the mountaineering legend. This is no ordinary trail, as it’s located in the proximity of this legendary wall. Still, there’s a real threat of rockfall here, especially in warmer months when tumbling ice loosens the debris. On this trail, nature calls the shots, thus the occasional sound of tumbling rocks offers a chilling reminder of that fact.
Creux du Van
The Jura mountains provide a massive natural amphitheater which is breathtaking, but with challenges all its own. Dropping more than 500 feet, they have no barrier and a slip could prove fatal. In addition, gusty winds are the norm and could easily knock a steady hiker off their stride. Remember the most dramatic views are the ones when you are standing on the steadiest footing.
Schreckhorn Traverse
The Schreckhorn Traverse is one of Switzerland’s most challenging treks. The route is high altitude with steep ascents and exposed ridges along with crevassed glaciers. Most climbers need to use ropes and it is closer to mountaineering than hiking. It’s a place for experts who love to stretch their limits.
Zermatt to Schönbielhütte
This hike may look like a walk in the park but don’t be fooled by its charm. Moraine crossings are part of the trail, and loose rocks are tricky to navigate. With glacier-fed streams, they are an extra challenge, especially after heavy rains. Many hikers have turned around realizing it’s about not just strength but smart decision making.
Lauterbrunnen Valley Ice Caves
Diving into the ice caves of Lauterbrunnen Valley is such a step into another world. It is as beautiful as the risk is real. Melting glaciers create these caves, and their structures keep collapsing. Sudden collapses are caused by the warm weather and make a visit that should be nothing short of awe-inspiring into one where everyone is sprinting to a safe area. Come in with great care, and never stay longer than you must.
Trift Bridge Hike
At 300 Feet high, the Trift Bridge sways gently above a chasm to give you the most scintillating view of the Trift Glacier. For those who think they might be scared of heights, it will feel like an adventure movie. The crossing is often made all the more nerve-wracking by high winds that sweep through the valley. That’s a reminder that there’s no exhilarating moment without the possibility of your heart pounding out of your chest.
Aletsch Glacier Trail
The Aletsch Glacier is the largest in the Alps, and it is spectacular. The trail alongside it, however, isn’t for everyone. It’s treacherous — dangerous to travel without proper equipment because of the crevasses, steep descents, and icy patches. Glacier terrain accidents are on the rise, often because unprepared hikers are venturing too far. Here is one place where a guide can be a lifesaver.
Mount Titlis Cliff Walk
This is the highest suspension bridge in Europe consisting of 10,000 feet suspended over the Alps. The exposure is unmatched, as are the views. Every step is a leap of faith, down a narrow, walkway with sheer drops on both sides, so getting off can be equally scary as getting on. Even the most experienced hikers have their nerves tested when you throw in strong winds.
Oeschinensee Alpine Circuit
Oeschinensee’s turquoise waters are a hiker’s delight but the circuit around this alpine lake is no walk in the park. The trails run along cliff edges and through avalanche country. The danger is increased by the risk of slipping on ice in winter. A trail that keeps your guard up, with a jaw-dropping view every cautious step.
Via Ferrata Mürren to Gimmelwald
It’s exhilarating, as it is challenging, to climb this fixed-rope route. A route requiring strength, focus, and nerves of steel that as of yet involves sections where you have to traverse sheer rock faces and climb straight up vertical ladders.
Santis Ridge
Beauty and danger are equally shared on Santis Ridge. The trail has a narrow ridge, and some slippery rocks, sections where even an experienced hiker needs to scramble. Here strong winds and often sudden quick weather changes throw an extra challenge into the adventure. Though dangerous, the 360 degree views from the top make all the difficult steps worthwhile.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro
How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
