Selected alternatives for you
Culture, history, relaxation... The winter hike connecting Grächen to Alpe Äpnet has a lot to offer. As such, it is perfectly suitable for families and snowshoe hikers eager to learn.
moderate
Distance 4.1 km
1:13 h
148 m
149 m
1,762 m
1,614 m
Fresh air, magnificent views, and interesting discoveries: the winter hiking trail linking Grächen to Alpe Äpnet impresses, surprises, and excites, especially because of the panorama offered to snowshoe enthusiasts. The route through the snowy Grächen forest is no less enchanting. The Drieri and Eggeri bisses, which mark the way to Alpe Äpnet, are essential parts of an irrigation system dating back to the 12th century and still in use today. On the way, it is recommended to stop at Restaurant Zum See and enjoy its local specialties. The view of the Weisshorn and the ice-covered lake perfects the experience. Once you reach Alpe Äpnet, cross the valley trail and descend towards Egga. Thanks to the chapel named after this district, you can immerse yourself in Grächen’s history before finally returning to the village.
Author’s recommendation
The view of the village below is unique. And if the snow has freshly fallen, Grächen takes on a magical appearance. On the way, don't miss the opportunity to pause at the Restaurant Zum See.
Author
Nicolas Mari
Difficulty
moderate
Overall difficulty
moderate
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Experience
Landscape
Highest point
Alpe Äpnet, 1,762 m
Lowest point
Grächen, 1,614 m
Best time of year
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Track types
Road
740 m
Unknown
3.4 km
Safety information
The use of the routes and information on this website is the responsibility of each hiker. On-site conditions may cause route changes. Valais/Wallis Promotion declines any liability for the accuracy and completeness of the website information.- Bring a map. Download the full route description with a large-scale map by clicking the "print" icon at the top right of the page.
- Only take marked paths and observe all signs — for your safety, for livestock protection, and not to disturb wildlife.
- Be respectful of other users, plants, and animals. Do not litter in nature.
- Take special care to protect yourself from the sun at altitude. UV rays can be very strong, even on cloudy days.
- Plan your hike carefully: consider the physical level of each participant, weather forecasts, and the season.
- Weather conditions can change quickly and unexpectedly in the mountains. It is essential to have suitable clothing and sufficient food and water reserves. In uncertain weather, turn back in time.
- Do not venture onto glaciers without a mountain guide.
- Take note of constant danger warning signs, especially avalanche danger.
-
Inform your relatives about your route and, whenever possible, prefer hiking in groups.
Tips and suggestions
Learn more about the destination: GrächenView this route on SwitzerlandMobility : N°861 Alpe-Äbnet-Waldrand-Weg
Roadbook
The starting point of the winter hike to Alpe Äpnet is located on the village square in Grächen. Strolling between the chalets, you pass by the sports center until the edge of the forest. Then take the large left turn, follow the flat path, cross the Grächen forest, and reach the Restaurant Zum See, then Alpe Äpnet. The Drieri and Eggeri bisses accompany you throughout your journey. After crossing the valley trail near the refuge, head towards Ritti, Egga, and finally, return to the village.
Rest stop
Nearby
Top Partner
Waypoint
Start point
End point
Low point
High point
Forecast
Today {low} to {high} and {precipitation} of {precipitation_type}
show {x} more
Photo
Video
Lake in GrächenAlpe Äbnet
Public transport
Accessible by train and bus. From the Viège or St. Niklaus station by coach to Grächen.Directions
A9 highway direction Visp. Cantonal road direction Saas-Fee / Zermatt to the Grächen junction.Parking
Grächen is a partially car-free village. Two parking lots are available at the village entrance.Coordinates
SwissGrid
2'630'932E 1'116'148N
DD
46.196085, 7.839344
DMS
46°11'45.9"N 7°50'21.6"E
UTM
32T 410445 5116489
w3w
///sweetly.inflamed.durations
Get there by train, car, bike, or on foot!
Book recommendation by the author
The tourist office in Grächen provides brochures for hiking in the region.
Author’s map recommendations
SwissTopo national maps 1:25,000: 1308 St-Niklaus
Book recommendations for this region:
Show more
Equipment
We recommend:- Good shoes
- Clothing suitable for the weather and cold: always have a waterproof jacket
- Hat or cap
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle, picnic
- Camera
- Walking poles (optional)
- Printed version of the route (click "print" to download)
Localization
Parts of this content were machine translated from French.
Difficulty
moderate
Overall difficulty
moderate
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Distance
4.1 km
Duration
1:13 h
Ascent
148 m
Descent
149 m
Highest point
1,762 m
Lowest point
1,614 m
Weather at the starting point
Statistics
Maps and trails
Nothing selected - click and drag in the elevation profile to zoom
Distance
Duration
Ascent
Descent

User Questions