Selde - Lauchernalp

To make the description easier to follow, the following symbols are used:
Sign R: Yellow sign with a hiker pictogram.
Sign No. 56 or P56: Red and white multi-directional sign with a green No. 56 sticker.
The start of this hike is at the Berghotel Gasterntal Horner in Selde.

Signpost No. 56

(S) From the Berghotel, head back towards the Hotel Steinbock. (P56).

(1) Opposite the hotel, take the narrow path leading down to the suspension bridge. Cross the Kander via this bridge and follow the path to a fork in the road (P56).

(2) Begin the steep ascent towards the Gfelalp mountain pasture, up to a small hut (P56).

(3) Continue the fairly steep climb to the 2000-metre mark (P56)

(4) Enjoy the view of the Kanderfirn glacier, which feeds the River Kander. Continue round a rocky outcrop and emerge onto the Lötsche glacier.
On the glacier and the moraine, follow the red marker posts (see also the ‘Practical information’ section).

(5) On the glacier, make sure you spot the next marker before continuing. Walk without difficulty, following the markings, until you reach the moraine.

Red/white markings all the way to the pass

(6) Continue along the moraine until you reach a short rocky section, taking care to follow the markings closely. You’ll arrive at a small plateau before tackling the secured section.

(7) Set off along the cable-equipped path, then reach the Lötschepass and the Lötschenpasshütte fairly quickly.

(8) Take the opportunity to stop at the hut for a bite to eat and to enjoy the view of the Valais peaks, including the Bietschorn, directly opposite. Begin the descent by staying on the path to the left. Do not head towards the first lake.
Heading east, follow a fairly rugged path, with numerous sections over rocks and scree, before reaching a small pass and a signpost for Lauchernalp.

Signpost No. 56

(9) On a more pleasant path, head back up to the top of the Lauchernalp resort at the Berghaus Lauchern (P56).

(10) Turn right and rejoin Stafelstrasse. Continue until you reach a signpost for “Zur Wildi”.

(11) Turn left onto the small path which leads directly to the Hotel Wildi, your accommodation for the night (E).

Hike completed by the author on 29 August 2024

• This hike follows the Lötschberg-Panoramaweg trail, which is marked on Swiss maps.

Please note: the ascent of the Lötschen Pass includes a section between points (5) and (8) rated T3
A quick reminder about route difficulty ratings: see this page.

Signposting: at every major junction, you will find signposts:
- Sign No. 56 or P56 with a No. 56 sticker indicating this trail.
- R sign: Yellow sign with a hiker pictogram
- Lötsche Glacier: the glacier is covered in scree, with a few small crevasses to bypass. No special equipment is required. You simply need to follow the route marked by stakes.

Before setting off, it is advisable to check the Suisse Topo website for any trail closures and diversions. This information is updated in real time.

As well as the Visorando app, you can also download the swisstopo app ( free), where you’ll find this information too.

Weather: before setting off, check the Swiss Weather Service or Météo Blue

Mountain pastures: You will be passing through several mountain pastures. Please remember to close the gates behind you.

Hiking kit, including good walking boots.

• Accommodation in Lauchernalp: Hotel Wildi

• Selde^.
• View of the Kanderfirn (the glacier that feeds the River Kander).
• Lötsche Glacier (Lötschegletscher).
• Lötsche Pass (Lötschepass).
• Lötschenpasshütte (food and accommodation).
• View of the Bietschhorn (3,934 m).
• View of the Blamhorn (3,697 m), the Hochenhorn (3,293 m) and the Ferdenrothorn (3,180 m).
• Lauchernalp (Lötschental ski resort).