4.7
(842)
7,521
hikers
55
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Gelmersee are characterized by dramatic alpine scenery, featuring steep mountains and, at higher elevations, snow-capped peaks. The region's centerpiece is the vivid turquoise glacial meltwater of Gelmersee, contrasted by impressive boulders and rock formations along the paths. Hikers can also encounter several waterfalls that feed into the lake, adding to the scenic beauty.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.7
(98)
788
hikers
13.3km
05:45
590m
590m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
33
hikers
12.0km
06:58
1,070m
1,070m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

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5.0
(58)
448
hikers
9.74km
04:14
560m
560m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.9
(30)
205
hikers
11.7km
05:36
810m
810m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.4
(14)
74
hikers
7.72km
02:45
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Popular around Gelmersee
An eye-catcher at the lake
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In foggy weather you can't sunbathe, but it is still worth seeing and definitely worth a visit.
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Speaking of the Grimsel Pass: The Grimsel Pass is in the heart of the Alps, an exceptional natural area. From a hydrological point of view, the large amounts of precipitation are unique. Here at the Grimsel Pass, this is an average of around 2300 litres per square metre per year. 300 litres of this evaporate per square metre, and 2000 litres per square metre leave the region as runoff in the Rhone or Aare. That is a lot of water: twice as much as the Swiss average and almost seven times as much as the average in Germany. Depending on which side of the pass the water drops reach the earth's surface, they flow into the Mediterranean or the North Sea. The Aare, with a total length of around 290 km, flows through the cantons of Bern, Solothurn and Aargau, crossing Lake Brienz, Lake Thun and Lake Biel. It is the longest river located entirely in Switzerland. Although the Aare carries more water on average at the confluence with the Rhine, it loses its name. After another 1000 km of flow, the Aare water flows into the North Sea as part of the Rhine. The Rhone, on the other hand, keeps its name until it flows into the Mediterranean. Its approximately 810 km long flow takes it through the Valais into Lake Geneva and from there via Lyon into the French Rhone Valley, where it repeatedly receives tributaries from the Western Alps. While the Aare flows into an oceanic climate, the Rhone carries the water from the Grimsel Pass into the Mediterranean climate zone, where the abundant snow and glacier meltwater from alpine rivers is very popular in the dry summers.
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The water of the Grimselsee has the colour of glacier milk. The play of cloud shadows on the surface of the lake makes the view from here spectacular
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Very nice hike. Below the Gelmerhütte we enjoyed our lunch with a magnificent view. The route can also be walked in the opposite direction. Tip: reserve the Gelmerbahn in advance, otherwise there can be long waiting times.
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Small chapel consecrated on 8 September 1961
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Monument at the Atlantic / Mediterranean watershed
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When the sun shines, the Caribbean flair comes to life😉
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There are over 50 hiking trails around Gelmersee that are accessible by bus. These routes offer a wide range of experiences, from moderate walks to challenging alpine treks, all starting conveniently from public transport stops.
The bus-accessible hikes around Gelmersee vary in difficulty. While there is 1 easy route, the majority are more challenging, with 15 moderate and 40 difficult trails. Many routes, especially those directly around the lake, are classified as mountain trails (T3) and require sure-footedness and sturdy footwear due to narrow or exposed sections.
Yes, there are family-friendly options, though it's important to note the terrain. While the full circular hike around Gelmersee can be challenging for very young children or strollers, easier walks like the 1.8 km loop near the Handeckfall Bridge are suitable. Always check the specific trail details for elevation and terrain to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails around Gelmersee. However, always keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and be mindful of other hikers. Some sections of the more challenging trails might be difficult for dogs, particularly those with ropes or chains. Public transport rules for dogs should also be checked.
Hiking from bus stops around Gelmersee offers stunning views of the turquoise lake and dramatic alpine scenery. You can discover features like the View of Lake Gelmer (Gelmersee), a distinctive Natural rock arch on the Gelmersee Trail, and the impressive Diechterbach Stream. The area is also known for its waterfalls and unique rock formations.
Yes, several circular hikes are accessible from bus stops. For instance, the challenging View of Gelmersee – View of Gelmersee loop from Gelmersee is a popular option. Another route, North Shore of Grimselsee – Waterfall at Grimsel Reservoir loop from Räterichsbodensee, also offers a circular experience starting from a bus-accessible point.
The best season for hiking around Gelmersee is typically from June to October. During these months, the trails are generally free of snow, and the weather is most favorable for enjoying the alpine landscape. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
While many trails are challenging, there is 1 easy bus-accessible route available. For a more relaxed experience, consider shorter sections or the 1.8 km Gelmerbahn Valley Station – Handeckfall Bridge loop, which offers scenic views without significant elevation gain. Always check the specific route details for an accurate assessment of difficulty.
The bus-accessible trails around Gelmersee are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 839 ratings. Hikers frequently praise the breathtaking turquoise waters of Gelmersee, the dramatic alpine scenery, and the thrill of accessing such remote beauty via public transport. The well-maintained, albeit challenging, paths and the panoramic views are often highlighted as favorites.
Yes, the Handegg area, which is a key bus stop and the valley station for the Gelmerbahn, offers amenities. You can find places to eat and potentially accommodation options there, making it convenient for hikers starting or ending their bus-accessible adventures.
Yes, adventurous hikers can choose to walk up to Gelmersee from the Handegg valley station, which is accessible by bus. This trail is approximately 1.5 km one way, involves a 250m elevation gain, and typically takes about an hour. It requires steady footing but offers a rewarding ascent to the lake.


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