Intermediate Oeschinensee Trek

The route starts at the hut and first drops into a side valley before climbing back up to the next high perch. You move from rocky slopes into gentler ground and then into high alpine terrain again. Along the way you see the Gamchi Glacier, the Blüemlisalp Glacier and peaks like Schwarzhore (2600 m) and Bütlasse (3193 m). It feels like a full mountain day, travelling clearly from one cirque to another.

A clear path descends from the hut over rocky steps and loose ground, then eases onto gentler slopes in the valley. You follow streams and small moraines towards the Glacier Panorama viewpoint, mostly on comfortable trail. After crossing the valley floor the main climb starts, rising from around 2100 m to roughly 2840 m. Zigzags lead up a steep slope, where you meet several sections with rock steps and stairs, before the route swings onto a shoulder beneath the glacier.

From this shoulder an easy traverse brings you to the final ramp below the hut. The path climbs one last time over broken rock to reach the buildings. Blüemlisalphütte sits on a rocky balcony above the ice, and the route ends right at the terrace. Here you can drop your pack, take off your boots and watch the glacier and surrounding peaks glowing in the evening light.

Today’s route leads you down towards one of Switzerland’s most beautiful mountain lakes: Oeschinensee. The hike begins high up near the Hohtürli Pass and follows well-marked alpine paths with wide-open views. It’s a rewarding route for hikers who are comfortable walking in the mountains.

Midway through the walk, Oeschinensee suddenly appears—an impossibly blue lake surrounded by cliffs and glaciers. Take your time at one of the viewpoints, or head all the way to the lakeshore for a snack or even a swim on warm days.

From the mountain station above the lake, you can either take the cable car down to Kandersteg (great for tired legs) or continue walking downhill through the forest. Either way, you’ll finish the day with a big sense of achievement—and plenty of postcard-worthy photos.