My research and other posts suggest that the climb in to see Trummelbach Falls is steep and takes about 45 minutes, which is likely too much for our poor old legs. Is there any part of it worth seeing without the climb? Is this a "top of the list" place to see while in the area? We are not hikers so are looking for beautiful sights that are easily accessed.
Thanks in advance for your expertise!
Posted by
TX
515 posts
Steps most of the way up and down, and not a hard climb, but quite slippery. You can't really see the falls without the climb. Lauterbrunnen Valley is quite beautiful. Steep mountains on each side, lots of visible waterfalls....we took the gondola to top of Schilthorn...weather permitting I would certainly do that. Just walking everywhere in the valley is so lovely.
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9110 posts
You're not really "climbing", but there are some short stretches of steep stairways, but you should be okay. But for the most part you'll be going up and down as you tour the site. Trummelbach Falls is more of a caving type experience, and not a rugged wilderness trail to the top of an outdoor waterfall. IMO it is worth visiting.
Posted by
Ottawa, Canada
695 posts
Chris, in my opinion it is worth seeing, the climb is not that bad, you climb some steps, then stop at the look out, climb some more, then stop at another look out. It is very slippery thought, if you pace yourself you won't have any problem. We also walk from Launterbrunnen, that was an easy flat walk.
Posted by
PNW
194 posts
As the other Chris mentioned, you can take the lift and avoid over half the climb. If you don't want to go up the rest of the way, you can walk down and stop at the viewing areas and see at least half of the falls. Be sure to wear a windbreaker or rain jacket, because the spray can get you pretty wet! If you'd like to see a "layout" of the falls, I took a picture of the sign posted out in front. Just send me a private message and I'll send it to you. (I can't post my picture here; at least I don't know how...)
Posted by
Knoxville, TN, USA
7209 posts
I've been twice to Trummelbache and I don't remember any climbing "up" at all...I just remember hopping on the lift and being deposited at the top and then walking down. It's not difficult at all.
Posted by
Puyallup, WA, USA
881 posts
Rewriting my posts as they were a bit messy.
Chris - you'll find this is a travel site for walkers, and hikers. Rick's tours, and his suggestions are made for a fairly active set, and the helpline reflects that. I've found a lot of suggestions for "easy" 5 minute walks that I would not consider easy, or 5 mins. lol
That being said, Trummelbach falls is wonderful. Yes, it's a bear of a hike up to the top if you have mobility issues, but all of my favorite places were along the way, and all of my best pictures were taken well before the top. (If I can find them, I'll link them to you. worth seeing.)
I don't think you'll be disappointed at all, if you can't make it all the way up.
Yes there is a lift, but there is a good little hike after. The views from around there are beautiful. There is this nice spot not too far in at all where the trail clings to the wall. You can see part of it here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trummelbach Very cool!
I wouldn't be disappointed if you didn't make it to the top. The best views are on the way up, and boy are they worth it.
FYI - I'm a 300lb+ guy, and I was exhausted the day we when there, but I made it to the top. I wouldn't be disappointed if I didn't next time.
Posted by
OP
Houston, Texas, USA
231 posts
Thanks so much for sharing your experiences. I hope that we have time to make ti to the falls!
Posted by
Frankfurt, Germany
9221 posts
How much time do you have until your trip? Start now with a walking plan to get in shape. Take the stairs at work or at the Mall, park your car a couple of blocks away from work, go hiking now in your free time. Every little bit that you do now will increase your enjoyment of your trip.
Posted by
santa rosa, california, usa
35 posts
we visited the falls, came down on a cable car from Gimmelwald- what great fun.I have a bad back and knees (57 yr old)and I had no problem with the slight incline walk up to where you get the tram that takes you inside the falls, then walked up the stairs and ramps no problem. I think it is a stupendous place to see- don't miss it and look back from time to time- great views. then the post bus ride through the valley to catch the train back to Interlaken was so pretty. go for it !!
Posted by
OP
Houston, Texas, USA
231 posts
Jo, Thanks for encouragement. We did start walking, and then I stepped in a crack and hurt my foot. It's still healing but we plan to get back to walking as soon as we can. I walk a lot on my job, so that helps. I've started looking for new shoes so I can have them well broken in before the trip. Suggestions anyone? I tried on a Merrel light hiking shoe and it felt good but was a bit narrow for me.