Grindelwald First to Lake Bachalp 2-hour alpine hike

The hike to Lake Bachalp takes you past three of the Alps' most famous peaks in a single morning.

A small-group hike from Interlaken that combines train and gondola transport with a 2-hour alpine walk to Lake Bachalp in the Grindelwald First area. The route passes beneath Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, includes a picnic break by the lake and a stop at the Cliff Walk, with all tickets and a live English or German-speaking guide included. No prior hiking experience is required.

The experience

The day starts with a 35-minute train ride from Interlaken to Grindelwald, followed by a 10-minute walk to the gondola station. The gondola carries you up to First in about 25 minutes, where the actual hiking begins. From there, a 50- to 60-minute walk on a moderate trail leads to Lake Bachalp, a glacial lake ringed by peaks. The hike itself is straightforward (no scrambling, no technical sections), and the path is well-marked throughout.

At Lake Bachalp you stop for a picnic break, with time to rest and take photos before the return walk back to First (another 50 minutes). The route then includes a break at First itself, where you can sit and look out over the valleys, before the gondola and train carry you back to Interlaken. The whole outing takes about 7 hours from start to finish, though most of that is travel and rest. The actual walking time is 2 hours. Your guide speaks English or German and points out alpine plants and local traditions along the way, plus arranges photo stops at the best vantage points.

Bring solid, comfortable hiking boots and layers: the weather changes fast at altitude. Sun protection and rain gear are essential. You'll need to carry snacks and water, though you can buy a picnic on the way up if you prefer not to pack your own. The fitness requirement is moderate: the trail has no steep pitches, but you should be comfortable walking for an hour at a time without stopping.

What’s included

• All train and gondola tickets from Interlaken to First and back.
• a live guide in English or German.
• time for a picnic break at Lake Bachalp and a rest stop at the Cliff Walk.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 10:15

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (16 and older) · Child (6 to 15 years) · Infant (under 6)

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish and German

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 7 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by SwissTravelGuide.ch

Is this one for you?The walk itself is only 2 hours spread across the day, so this suits anyone who wants alpine views and a mountain lake without a full day of strenuous hiking. Bring comfortable boots and layers, and be ready for a moderate pace with plenty of stops for photos and rest.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and German.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 15 years); Infant (under 6).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How much of the day is actually spent hiking versus traveling?

The hike itself is 2 hours in total: 50 to 60 minutes up to Lake Bachalp and 50 minutes back down. The rest of the 7-hour outing is train and gondola rides, breaks, and the walk from Grindelwald station to the gondola base, which takes about 10 minutes.

Can I do this hike if I've never hiked before?

Yes. The trail to Lake Bachalp is rated easy to moderate and requires no prior training or technical skill. The path is well-maintained and the pace is leisurely, with time built in for rest and photos.

What are Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau?

They are three of the most recognizable peaks in the Swiss Alps, visible throughout the hike from Lake Bachalp. Eiger is the northernmost and most dramatic. Mönch and Jungfrau rise to the south and east. You'll see them from multiple angles as you walk.

What should I bring to eat and drink?

You can pack your own snacks and water, or buy a picnic on the way up to Grindelwald. The tour includes a picnic break at the lake, so bring or purchase enough for that stop. Water is essential at altitude.

Is the Cliff Walk included, and what is it?

Yes, a break at the Cliff Walk at First is part of the itinerary. It's a viewing platform and walking area at First where you can stand and look out over the surrounding valleys and peaks before heading back down.

What happens if the weather turns bad?

Rain gear and sun protection are required because alpine weather changes quickly. The tour operates in most conditions, but your guide will adjust the pace and route if needed to keep the group safe.