Interlaken to Grimsel: Canyoning Adventure with Rappel & Lunch

Summary

Grimsel canyoning from Interlaken with big rappel and alpine pools

You’ll suit up in Interlaken then drive up to Grimsel Pass for a real canyoning adventure: guided rappel down sheer rock, wild slides and jumps into icy alpine pools, plus a zipline splash finale. After two hours in the canyon—with pros guiding every step—you’ll warm up with lunch before heading back down. It’s honest adrenaline mixed with mountain air.

What’s the experience like?

We piled into the van just outside Interlaken—still half-awake, clutching coffee, everyone a bit nervous but pretending otherwise. Our guide, Jonas, was already cracking jokes as we wound up toward Grimsel Pass. The road twisted through green slopes and gray rock; you could smell cold mountain air even with the windows closed. I kept thinking about that first thing Jonas said: “You’ll remember the start.” I didn’t get it yet.

The moment we stepped out at the canyon, it hit me—real alpine chill, sharp and clean. We wriggled into wetsuits (not my best look) and helmets while Jonas and his friend Li checked our harnesses twice. Then came the part I’d been dreading: that 50-meter rappel straight down into Grimsel’s pale rock throat. My hands shook a little on the rope—I’m not ashamed to say it—but Jonas talked me through every step until my feet finally touched water. Cold shock right through my shoes. Someone behind me whooped so loud it echoed off the cliffs.

Canyoning here is more than just jumps and slides—though yeah, there were plenty of those too. The zipline sent us flying over a pool so clear you could see every pebble below. At one point I tried to say “xièxiè” to Li for catching my clumsy landing; she laughed and told me I sounded Swiss-German instead of Mandarin (I’ll take it). There’s this weird mix of adrenaline and quiet when you’re wedged between rocks listening to nothing but water sliding past your ears.

After two hours in the canyon—honestly felt both longer and shorter—we changed back at the van, shivering but grinning like fools. They handed out sandwiches and drinks while we tried to wipe river grit off our faces. I still think about that first drop sometimes when I’m back home doing something boring. You don’t really know how high 50 meters is until you’re hanging over it with your heart in your throat.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Canyoning trip at Grimsel Pass

• Meet guide in Interlaken
• Receive first briefing
• Prepare canyoning equipment
• Drive to Grimsel Pass
• Change into canyoning gear
• Attend safety instructions
• Canyoning for two hours
• Enjoy light lunch and drink
• Drive back to base
• Order your video

Top questions

How long does the Grimsel canyoning trip from Interlaken take?

The whole experience lasts around 5 hours including transport; about 2 hours are spent in the canyon itself.

Is previous canyoning experience required for Grimsel?

No experience needed—professional guides provide full instruction and safety briefing before entering the canyon.

What should I bring for canyoning at Grimsel?

Bring a swimsuit, towel, and small day bag; all other equipment is provided on site.

Is lunch included after the Grimsel canyoning tour?

Yes, a free light lunch and drink are included after you finish canyoning.

Can beginners join this day trip from Interlaken?

Yes, beginners can join but should have moderate fitness; there’s a compulsory 50m guided rappel at the start.

Are showers available after canyoning?

Yes—hot showers and changing rooms are available at the base in Interlaken after your return.

What’s the minimum age for Grimsel canyoning?

The minimum age is 14 years old for this activity.

Do I need to know how to swim for this tour?

The ability to swim is recommended but not strictly required for this trip.

What’s included

Your day starts at Interlaken base where you meet your guides before driving up to Grimsel Pass—all necessary canyoning equipment is provided along with professional guidance throughout. After two hours exploring waterfalls and rock slides in the canyon, you’ll get a free light lunch and drink before returning to hot showers at base camp.