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
7300 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
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.