My husband and I are intrigued by the Eiger Trail Hike from Eigerglecher to Alpigen. We are both late 50s and enjoy walking. In the past we have done other hikes in the region like Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg and First to Grosse Scheidegg. He's more sure footed than I am (I have arthritis) but I've watched YouTube videos from other hikers and felt decently good that I'd be ok. However, one video showed a very steep and rocky stair decline with wire handles in the rocks near the end of the trail. Can anyone who isn't in peak physical condition comment on how challenging this entire route might be for someone who is more used to easy hikes vs moderate hikes? I have purchased the collapsible walking sticks, but haven't got the hang of them yet - are they very useful for this type of hike? Thanks!
Posted by
Paris
6883 posts
I do not know anything firsthand about that specific trail. Looking at the map (map.geo.admin.ch), the end section looks steep, BUT the wire handles might belong to the via Ferrata that branches off the Eigertrail. Maybe someone who's done it will know.
And I can answer that bit:
I have purchased the collapsible walking sticks, but haven't got the hang of them yet - are they very useful for this type of hike?
I am a very recent convert to hiking poles, and I cannot hike without anymore. They are extremely useful, especially in downhill sections - and that trail you mention is mostly downhill given the 700 metre elevation difference between beginning and end.
The ONE caveat, and it is important: you MUST be able to store / stash your poles in some fashion if the trail you take has any section which requires the use of the hands. Wrist loops will do in a pinch, but they're not ideal.
Posted by
2288 posts
I've been on that trail twice, both times late September or early October - 1st time was when a new section to the trail first opened and I remember the trail to be quite slick (heavy frost and the sun hadn't got on it yet) and the 2nd time, it was very enjoyable - I don't recall it be being particularly difficult.
.
This link has some real nice Pics of the Trail and Area:
https://www.earthtrekkers.com/eiger-trail-hike-bernese-oberland-switzerland/
Posted by
Thun, Switzerland
484 posts
Hi Skatie, I see by your most recent post that you haven’t started your trip yet. I thought I would send you this link to help you if you are still deciding about this hike.
They do not have an English version, but I worked my way through it with Google translate. They ask you some great questions that help you to decide if these kind of hikes are for you.
If you want to give it a try, choose “Selbsttest machen”. They ask you some good questions that help you think about what you might encounter on the trail. How are you with heights. When you walk out on a viewing platform do you feel afraid? Do you hang on, or are you perfectly comfortable? Things like that.
There is also a part where they get to you do some physical things - time how long you can keep your balance while standing on one foot with hands on hips. Lunging forward with one foot and then returning to your starting position. Walking forward with one foot directly in front of the other. Things you might have to do on the trail.
All of this can help you assess what kind of trails you should be looking for so that you can have a safe and fun hiking experience.
Posted by
25 posts
We’ve been on that trail 2-3 times, the most recent being a couple weeks ago. That part toward the end is as you describe but you can choose to use either your hiking sticks on the descent or the cables. It’s not treacherous but could be slick if wet. Just take your time and choose your steps carefully. My husband is 68 and I’m 66 and we have hiked in mountains on trips quite a lot but his knee has been acting up on downhills since we got to Switzerland in July. He survived it. At our age we would never hike without sticks and are amazed at so many who do. They are amazing aids in steep mountains. We love the Eiger Trail—beautiful views all around—but as I recall the Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg hike was much easier. Eiger is more moderate and M-KS more on the easy side if I recall accurately.