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Swiss Pass Question and Shoe Question

Posted by (Suwanee, Georgia, USA) on

I apologize if these have been answered in another thread

Question 1: We purchased the Swiss Pass through Rail Europe and received it in the mail. We are arriving in Zurich on 27 June and making our way to Wengen. Do we need to "purchase" tickets at the Zurich Airport station, or can we just get on the trains we need and find a conductor?

Question 2: We are planning to do some easier hikes while in the BO. Specifically, we would like to do the Mannlichen-Kleine Scheidegg hike and the North Face trail. Are my husband and I safe to wear running/walking shoes on these hikes? I also have some Merrell hiking sandals. We weren't sure if we should purchase more "hiking" type shoes or possibly rent hiking boots there.

Thanks for any/all advice you can pass along!

Posted by
16893 posts

You need to have your pass activated by a ticket agent at Zurich airport train station. Then, fill in your travel date if using a flexipass, then hop on any trains leaving, no additional ticket or reservation needed as far as Wengen. Trains conductors come around to check tickets after you're seated. See also http://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/transportation/trains/using-your-rail-pass.

Our staff have hiked both of these easier trails with just running shoes.

Posted by
3391 posts

Unless I plan on scrambling, I almost always hike with regular running shoes in Switzerland. They keep my feel cooler and are lightweight.

Posted by
328 posts

As the other posters said, you will be fine hiking with just your regular walking/running shoes.

Posted by
9 posts

Thanks so much!! Can't wait to be there next week :)

Posted by
7209 posts

It's a magnificent place. you SHOULD be looking forward to it :-) have fun.

Posted by
2 posts

Hi Dee Dee. My husband and I are there now (for the second time). We would suggest a trail running shoe so you get more grip on the bottom than a regular running/walking shoe. Some of the trails can be slippery especially if it rained. We love the Brooks Cascadia trail runner. Very comfy and great grip on the bottom. Have a great time!!

Posted by
9 posts

Oh thanks Becky! I found some Merrell trail shoes that I've decided to bring as well as my running shoes so hopefully they will be sufficient. We will be there on Friday around noon----hoping and praying for pretty weather, but have my raingear packed too....kind of with the idea that if I pack it, then I won't need it ;) Hope you are having a wonderful trip!

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