Description: Hiking is the most popular activity in Gimmelwald. There are tons of trails, and everyone has an opinion on which ones are the best. We got some great advice on which ones to take from the people at the hostel. However, every trail affords wonderful views and is well marked. The trail markers tell you how much time it should take you to get to the next point. However, beware that experienced Swiss hikers apparently timed the distances, because we almost never got there as fast as the signs suggest. Still, it gives you a good idea of how long/difficult the next leg of your journey will be.
The first hike we took, along the northface trail, was easy. It was circular from Murren and included gentle sloping hills, lots of flowers, several stream crossings, and, of course, wonderful views of the mountains. What is also great about this trail is that many points feature plaques that identify the various mountains and tell the story of the first ascent of each. It was fun to be able to identify which mountain we were looking at and read about the trials and tribulations of early climbers. This trail took us an afternoon, which included a stop for lunch at the restaurant at the top of the funicular where we had some traditional Swiss raclette - a dish with melted cheese, potatoes, and pickles.
The next hike we took was anything but easy. It was recommended to us by a hostel staff member as a difficult but worthwhile hike. "Difficult" was an understatement! The hike, which they called 'sharks fin,' took us toward and eventually past the Hotel Obersteinberg. However, first we went down to the valley floor via the main road out of Gimmelwald, and back up the other side. Then down the back side of that mountain across the valley floor and back up to Gimmelwald. It was VERY strenuous, but the views were absolutely incredible! From the top, we could see Gimmelwald and Murren perched on the side of the mountain far below. I would highly recommend this hike to anyone in good condition--hopefully better than me--because I had trouble walking the next day!
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