Selde - Lauchernalp

For ease of description, the following annotations are used:
R sign: Yellow sign with a hiker pictogram.
Sign No. 56 or P56: Red/white multi-directional sign with green sticker No. 56.
The start of this hike is at the Berghotel Gasterntal Horner in Selde.

Signpost No. 56

(S) From the Berghotel, return to the Hotel Steinbock. (P56).

(1) Opposite the hotel, take the small path that descends towards the suspension bridge. Cross the Kander via this bridge and follow the path to a fork (P56).

(2) Begin the steep climb towards the Gfelalp mountain pasture until you reach a small refuge (P56).

(3) Continue the fairly steep climb to an altitude of 2,000 metres (P56)

(4) Enjoy the view of the Kanderfirn glacier, which feeds the Kander River. Continue your climb, going around a rocky outcrop, until you reach the Lötsche glacier.
On the glacier and moraine, follow the red markers (see also the "Practical information" section).

(5) On the glacier, locate the next stake before continuing. Follow the markings to the moraine without difficulty.

Red/white markings to the pass

(6) Continue along the moraine until you reach a small rocky passage, keeping an eye out for the markings. You will arrive at a small platform before tackling the equipped passage.

(7) Take the path equipped with cables, which will quickly lead you to the Lötschepass and the Lötschenpasshütte.

(8) Take advantage of the hut for a break and to enjoy the view of the Valais peaks, including the Bietschorn, just opposite. Begin the descent by staying on the path to the left. Do not go to the first lake.
Heading east, follow a fairly rough path with numerous rocky and scree sections before reaching a small pass and a sign for Lauchernalp.

Signpost No. 56

(9) On a more pleasant trail, return to the top of the Lauchernalp station at the Berghaus Lauchern (P56).

(10) Turn right and rejoin Stafelstrasse. Continue until you see a sign for "Zur Wildi".

(11) Turn left onto the small path that 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 Lötschenpass includes a section rated T3 between points (5) and (8)
A quick reminder about the route ratings: see this page.

Signposting: at each major crossroads, 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 with gravel and there are a few small crevasses to avoid. No special equipment is required. Just follow the route marked by stakes.

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

In addition to the Visorando app, you can also download the swisstopo app ( free) where you will also find this information.

Weather: before setting off, check the Swiss weather forecast or Météo blue

Alpine pastures: You will cross several alpine pastures. Remember to close the gates behind you.

Hiking equipment, including good shoes.

• Accommodation in Lauchernalp: Hotel Wildi

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