Character
A Swiss high-mountain line through the Bernese Alps: green valleys, precise waymarking, long ascents and views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.
Alpine Treks
VIA-ALP Via Alpina Bear Trek
A compact Swiss alpine traverse through the iconic landscape of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.
Overview
Bear Trek is a strong alpine section of Via Alpina, offering Swiss precision, big views and good infrastructure. Shorter than the major traverses but the elevation gain remains rigorous.
- Distance
- 120 km
- Time
- 7-9 days
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Total elevation gain
- 8,500 m
Route & profile
Quick orientation of the route line, start, end and elevation profile.
Elevation profileHighest 1,946 m a.s.l. · Hahnenmoospass
Bernské Alpy, Švýcarsko
120 km · 8 stages · ↑ 8,500 m
Stage elevation data is indicative (derived from village altitudes and passes crossed).
Map data: OpenStreetMap contributors, displayed via Waymarked Trails.
Planning
Switzerland is expensive but logistically precise. Save with simpler hotels, mountain huts and shopping in valley villages.
July to September; snow on high passes may linger into early summer.
What to expect
Who it's for
Hikers who want a physically rigorous week in the Alps with very good transport and accommodation.
Suggested pace
7–9 days. The crossings of Kleine Scheidegg, Sefinenfurgge and Bunderchrinde deserve a good weather window.
Logistics
Both Meiringen and Lenk are well served by train. Most stages end in villages or at mountain accommodation.
Resupply & permits
Resupply
Easy resupply in Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Kandersteg and Adelboden.
Permits & regulations
No permit, but some huts and hotels require reservations; check Swiss rules for bivouacking.
Why go
- Some of the greatest views in the Alps.
- Excellent public transport.
- A compact trek with premium alpine character.
Watch out for
- Swiss prices are high.
- Passes are physically demanding even without technical ground.
- In poor weather the valley variants are worth taking.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for Via Alpina Bear Trek?
July to September; snow on high passes may linger into early summer.
How hard is Via Alpina Bear Trek?
Via Alpina Bear Trek is rated as Hard. A Swiss high-mountain line through the Bernese Alps: green valleys, precise waymarking, long ascents and views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.
How many days does Via Alpina Bear Trek take?
Via Alpina Bear Trek usually takes 7–9 days. 7–9 days. The crossings of Kleine Scheidegg, Sefinenfurgge and Bunderchrinde deserve a good weather window.
Do I need a permit for Via Alpina Bear Trek?
No permit, but some huts and hotels require reservations; check Swiss rules for bivouacking.
What about resupply on Via Alpina Bear Trek?
Easy resupply in Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Kandersteg and Adelboden.
Similar treks
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Photos from trekkers
Real shots from the trail by people who walked it — coming soon.