OVERVIEW

On the search for an epic hike in the Swiss Alps? The Schynige Platte-Faulhorn-First Trail in Bernese Oberland is one of the most stunning and accessible alpine hikes in Switzerland, perfect for travelers who want stunning mountain views without needing technical climbing skills. 

The 10.5-mile route connects First to Schynige Platte and follows a scenic, well-marked trail with incredible mountain views. It’s moderately challenging and suitable for adventurous hikers but doesn’t require technical skills. 

We encountered a few unexpected challenges on the trail, which highlighted just how important it is to plan thoroughly. Factors like weather, transportation timing, and unforeseen events can greatly affect your hike. We hope that by sharing our experiences, you’ll be better equipped for your own hike and enjoy a smoother, more rewarding visit.

This article covers everything you need to prepare for the Schynige Platte hike, including what to pack, how to get there, and a detailed step-by-step guide to help you make the most of this unforgettable alpine trek.

STATISTICS AND MAP

• Distance: 10.5 (17 km) mile point-to-point trail.
• Elevation Gain: 2,870 feet (875 meters).
• Elevation Loss: 2,250 feet (685 meters).
• Duration: 6-7 hours.
• Difficulty: Challenging.

LOGISTICS

Getting There

Getting to the Bernese Oberland region is surprisingly easy thanks to Switzerland’s efficient public transportation network—no car rental is needed, even for accessing the remote mountain areas. The country’s trains run frequently and are known for their accessibility and punctuality. 

From major cities like Zurich or Geneva, take a train to Interlaken, the region’s main gateway. Then transfer to a local train to Wilderswil, the base for the historic Schynige Platte cogwheel railway, which operates seasonally—from late May to October. The scenic train slowly climbs to the western trailhead at 6,500 feet elevation. 

Instead of taking the cogwheel train to Schynige Platte, you can continue by train into the Lauterbrunnen Valley and on to Wengen, where many people base themselves while exploring the region.

To get to the eastern trailhead, take a train from Wilderswil to Grindelwald. From Grindelwald a gondola leads up to First, where the trailhead is located. Grindelwald can also be reached from Wengen using different trains, lifts, and/or gondolas.

Interesting Fact: The Schynige Platte cogwheel railway opened in 1893, originally using steam engines to ascend from Wilderswil into the Bernese Alps. Electrified in the 1910s, it remains one of Switzerland’s oldest mountain railways. Today, it offers a scenic, nostalgic ride with stunning views of iconic peaks like the Eiger and Jungfrau.

Hiking Direction

The First to Schynige Platte hike is a point-to-point trail that can be hiked in either direction. If you start at First, as we did, you will have about 900 feet less elevation gain and the hike will be easier. Regardless of the direction you hike, the routes feature well-marked trails and spectacular scenery. 

One crucial tip: always check the operating hours for your transportation—whether it’s trains, gondolas, or cable cars—before heading out.

The Schynige Platte cogwheel train runs seasonally, typically from mid-June to late October. Trains leave Wilderswil every 40 minutes starting at 7:25 AM, with the final ascent at 4:45 PM. Return trips from Schynige Platte begin at 8:21 AM, with the last descent at 5:53 PM.

The gondola from Grindelwald to First runs year-round, but the hours vary by season. From early May to late October, the first ascent is at 8:00 AM, with the last ride up at 5:30 PM and the final descent at 6:00 PM.

We hadn’t double-checked the train schedule before setting out, and about halfway through our hike, we realized we were going to miss the last train from Schynige Platte to Wilderswil. By the time we reached the station (20 minutes too late), we were faced with two choices: pay for an expensive overnight stay at Berghotel Schynige Platte or hike nine miles down the railway tracks to Wilderswil at dusk. 

We chose the latter, and let’s just say the three-hour descent was grueling—complete with massive blisters and aching feet. Our GPS showed we covered around 22 miles that day, nearly double what we had originally planned.

WHERE TO STAY

Wilderswil (Closest to Schynige Platte Trailhead)

Wilderswil is just a short distance from Interlaken and serves as the base station for the Schynige Platte cogwheel train, offering convenient access to the western trailhead. 

• Hotel Berghof Amaranth: Located above Wilderswil, this hotel offers beautiful and quiet surroundings with stunning views.
• Alpenrose Hotel and Gardens: Set amid large flower-filled gardens, it features a sun terrace with views of the Jungfrau mountain range.
• Gasthof Hirschen: Enjoys a quiet location at the edge of Wilderswil, just a 3-minute walk from the train station.
• Edelweiss Lodge: Offers a convenient location just a few minutes’ walk from Wilderswil station, making it an ideal base for excursions.

Alternative Stays

For a unique mountain stay, consider the Berghotel Schynige Platte, situated at the top station. It offers panoramic views and includes breakfast and dinner.

For a more secluded experience, the Berghaus Männdlenen is a mountain hut located along the Schynige Platte–Faulhorn–First trail. It operates from late June to mid-October and offers basic accommodations, making it ideal for multi-day hikers. 

Grindelwald (Closest to First Trailhead)

If you prefer to start your hike from the eastern trailhead at First, accessible via gondola from Grindelwald, consider accommodations in Grindelwald. 

• Hotel Belvedere Grindelwald: Elegant 4-star hotel with spa and mountain views.
• Eiger Selfness Hotel: Comfortable mid-range hotel near the gondola station.
• Hotel Gletschergarten:– Family-run with alpine charm and personal service.
• Hotel Cabana: Budget-friendly option near town center and trails.

Wengen

Wengen is a car-free village perched above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, accessible via a cogwheel train. From here it’s easy to get to both WIlderswil and Grindelwald by using the various trains in Bernese Oberland.

• Hotel Schönegg: Beautiful alpine lodge with views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
• Beausite Park Hotel: High-end option with a pool and wellness center.
• Hotel Edelweiss: Known for friendly service and great meals.

Mürren

Mürren is a quiet, car-free village with epic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. While it takes longer to reach the trailheads, it serves as a peaceful and beautiful alpine base.

• Hotel Edelweiss: Cliffside location with dramatic views.
• Hotel Regina: Historic, atmospheric, and budget-conscious.
• Hotel Eiger Mürren: Upscale option with spa and gourmet dining.

WHAT TO PACK

Here’s a practical packing list for the Schynige Platte-Faulhorn-First Trail:

• Sturdy Hiking Shoes – Waterproof and broken-in with good grip.
• Weather-Appropriate Layers – Include a moisture-wicking base, fleece or light down jacket, and windproof shell.
• Rain Jacket – Alpine weather changes quickly; pack a lightweight waterproof layer.
• Sun Protection – Sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 30+), and a wide-brimmed hat or cap.
• Water Bottle or Hydration Bladder – At least 2-3 liters; limited refill options on trail.
• Snacks and Picnic Lunch – Energy bars, trail mix, sandwiches—there may not be much food en route.
• Map or GPS App – Paper map or a downloaded offline map (e.g., AllTrails, SwissTopo).
• Phone and Portable Charger – For photos, navigation, and emergencies.
• Small First Aid Kit – Include blister care, band-aids, pain relievers.
• Trekking Poles – Optional but helpful on steeper or uneven sections.
• Light Gloves and Hat – Even in summer, it can get chilly at altitude.
• Camera – If not using your phone, this hike is incredibly photogenic.
• Swiss Travel Pass or Train Tickets – If you’re connecting by cogwheel train or gondola.
• Cash/Card – For the mountain restaurant or train stations.
• Trash Bag or Ziplock – Pack out everything, including wrappers and food waste.

WHEN TO HIKE

The best time to hike the Schynige Platte–Faulhorn–First trail is from late June to early October, when the trail is free of snow and alpine wildflowers are in full bloom. July and August offer the warmest weather and the most reliable trail conditions, though they also bring more visitors. 

Early fall, particularly September, can be a great alternative, with fewer crowds and clear mountain views. Mornings are typically calmest, with less cloud cover and better visibility. 

Always check the local forecast before setting out, as weather in the Alps can change quickly, even in summer. The cogwheel train operates seasonally, so plan accordingly.

STEP BY STEP GUIDE 

Getting to First

During our time in Bernese Oberland, we stayed at Hotel Edelweiss in charming Wengen, a conveniently located and peaceful village with stunning views of the Swiss Alps. To get to the eastern trailhead, we took a train across the Kleine Scheidegg mountain pass to Grindelwald. 

From Grindelwald, we boarded the chairlift up to First, which saved us a ton of energy while offering fantastic views along the way. The Schynige Platte–Faulhorn–First trailhead is found at the summit station. Again, be sure to confirm the gondola’s operating hours before starting your day.

First to Faulhorn – 3.5 miles

After setting out on the trail, we first stopped at the First Cliff Walk, a thrilling suspension bridge that offers sweeping views of the valleys and peaks around us. The walk is exciting but safe, giving a unique perspective of the alpine landscape. We especially enjoyed watching the paragliders soaring through the air overhead.

Next, the trail leads past two beautiful mountain lakes, Bachalpsee and Obersee, where the calm water perfectly mirrors the surrounding mountains—ideal for a peaceful break or photos. 

From the lakes, the trail climbs steadily uphill through several switchbacks toward Faulhorn, a prominent peak at 2,681 meters. The ascent is gradual but fairly steep, rewarding hikers with spectacular views as they approach the summit. At Faulhorn, a cozy mountain hut awaits, a great spot to rest and enjoy the views before continuing the journey.

Faulhorn to Berghaus Männdlenen – 1.8 miles

From Faulhorn, the hike continues along a scenic ridge toward Berghaus Männdlenen, a charming mountain hut nestled in the alpine meadows. 

The trail gradually descends, offering wide-open views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Along this stretch, wildflowers bloom in summer, adding bursts of color to the rocky landscape. The path is well-marked and mostly smooth, making for a pleasant walk as you soak in the fresh mountain air. 

Approaching Berghaus Männdlenen, you’ll notice its rustic charm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a rest or a meal. This hut provides the perfect refuge, with simple accommodations for those wanting to extend their hiking adventure overnight. Grab a snack here if you need to, it’s the last opportunity for over five miles.

Berghaus Männdlenen to Schynige Platte – 5.2 miles

The final stage of the hike from Berghaus Männdlenen to Schynige Platte offers a gentle descent through beautiful alpine terrain. The trail winds through meadows dotted with wildflowers and patches of forest. 

On your right, you’ll pass Sägistalsee, a small alpine lake with clear water surrounded by rolling hills. You might even see areas with snow depending on the time of year. This was the favorite section of our hike, the views along this stretch were absolutely stunning and truly unforgettable!

As you near Schynige Platte, you’ll have the option of hiking a scenic detour known as the Panoramaweg Loucherhorn Trail. The trail follows a ridgeline and adds about 1 mile and 30 minutes of hiking to an already long hike, but offers sweeping views of Brienzersee and the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. 

Overall this section is less steep than earlier parts of the hike, making it a relaxing finish to the journey. Along the way, you may spot local wildlife such as marmots, birds, goats, and cattle. As you approach Schynige Platte, the iconic cogwheel train station comes into view, along with the Berghotel where many hikers rest and enjoy a meal before descending down to Wilderswil. 

FINAL IMPRESSION

The Schynige Platte–Faulhorn–First Trail is a stunning alpine hike that’s both rewarding and accessible. With clear trails, frequent public transport connections, and optional overnight stays in cozy mountain huts, it’s easy to plan and enjoy without needing technical experience. 

Hikers enjoy ridge walks with sweeping views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, as well as serene stretches past alpine lakes and wildflower-filled meadows. Whether done in a single day or stretched into a multi-day trek, the experience is pure Swiss mountain beauty—unforgettable, scenic, and perfect for those seeking a classic Alpine adventure.