Hike
Hike
$$
3-4h
Bachalpsee, also known as Lake Bachalp, is a stunning mountain lake in Switzerland that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Located at 2,265m above sea level, this picturesque spot is a popular destination for a leisurely hike in the Jungfrau Region. The easy trail to Bachalpsee starts at Grindelwald-First gondola station and takes about an hour to complete. With its crystal-clear waters and colourful wildflowers. Bachalpsee is a must-visit in the beautiful Swiss Alps.
🗺️ How to get there:
Starting Point - Grindelwald
Train to Grindelwald: Grindelwald is easily accessible by train from major Swiss cities such as Interlaken, Bern, and Zurich.
Gondola to First: From Grindelwald, take the Firstbahn gondola to the First mountain station. The gondola ride offers spectacular views and takes about 25 minutes.
🥾Hike to Bachalpsee
Trailhead: The hike to Bachalpsee begins at the First station.
Distance and Duration: The trail to Bachalpsee is approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) one way and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to hike, depending on your pace and fitness level.
Difficulty: The hike is relatively easy to moderate, with a well-marked and maintained trail.
Scenic Trail: The hike from First to Bachalpsee is one of the most scenic in the region. The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
🌼Along the way, you’ll pass through lush alpine meadows filled with wildflowers in the summer. Keep an eye out for marmots and other alpine wildlife.
About Bachalpsee:
Bachalpsee is divided into two sections by a natural dam. The larger section is known for its crystal-clear waters and perfect reflections of the surrounding mountains on calm days.
🧺There are no shops or restaurants at Bachalpsee. Bring along some snacks or a packed lunch, the shores of Bachalpsee provide a perfect spot for a picnic. Take some time to relax by the lake, soak in the beauty of the Alps, and the peaceful atmosphere.
You can swim in Bachalpsee Lake. But for reference the water of the glacial lake is freezing , even on a summers day. I recommend dipping your toes in the lake and see how you feel.
📆Best time to visit: May- Oct
I recommend visiting the lake early in the morning. 10am-4pm is when the lake is generally super busy and the sun will be directly in front of you, taking away the best views and making it more difficult to take photos. If visiting in the afternoon , keep an eye on gondola schedules to make sure you get back to Grindelwald in time.
I hope this has inspired you to visit this pretty alpine lake.
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