Lake hike above Grindelwald

Grindelwald, the charming village in the Bernese Alps, offers various hiking opportunities with spectacular views. This beautiful hike offers the chance to walk on secluded paths. Those looking for a physically demanding hike can start directly in the village of Grindelwald and hike up to First. We choose the more leisurely version by taking the cable car. Once at the top, we join the many other people and start heading towards Bachsee. This first stage is beautiful and perfect to warm up. After a few kilometers – about ten minutes before reaching Bachsee – there is a hiking signpost leading to Hagelseeli; we follow this. The path winds through meadows and we already pass a small, unnamed lake. Shortly after the turn-off, there is even a view of Bachsee from above; we also enjoy the view of Faulhorn and the prominent Grindelwald peaks.
Hagel- and Häxeseeli as highlights
We continue and follow the well-marked path towards Hagelseeli. This picturesque mountain lake is reached after about an hour. It’s worth taking a first break here. The path is not very demanding. However, although we are hiking in high summer, there is snow in some places. Appropriate equipment and experience are therefore recommended. Continuing over some of these very snowfields, we hike to Häxeseeli. It lies below Chlyne Chrinne at 2465 m above sea level. The scenery has something magical and gloomy. We hike along massive, dark rocks, whose shadows also fall on Häxeseeli. The reflection in it and the sparkle of the water are very special.
Long descent
After admiring Häxeseeli sufficiently, we continue to the Wart pass, where the sun shines again. From there, there are various options to extend the hike. Because the weather is uncertain that day, we decide on the direct descent. This leads – once again – over a large snowfield, then steeply down and finally gently across pastures to Grosse Scheidegg. From there, a path would lead back to Grindelwald. However, the post bus is already waiting and thus takes us safely back to the valley.
Text: Tanja Isler