Alpe Äpnet Waldrand Weg

Winter hiking

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Tour data

4.14km

1,614 - 1,755m

Distance

118hm

131hm

Ascent

01:13h

Duration

Valais/Wallis Promotion

Brief description: This winter hike from Grächen to Alpe Äpnet has plenty to offer in terms of culture, history and relaxation. It’s perfect for families and winter hikers with a thirst for knowledge.
Difficulty: medium
Rating: Technique

Fitness

Landscape

Experience
Starting point: Grächen
Route: Grächen village
4.0 km
Best season: Aug

Sep

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Jul
Description: Fresh air, amazing views and lots of interesting history. The winter hiking trail from Grächen to Alpe Äpnet impresses, surprises and delights. It’s not just because of the view – there’s also the captivating section of trail through the snowy forest of Grächen. The Drieri and Eggeri irrigation channels (bisses) lead the way to Alpe Äpnet and are part of an irrigation system with roots in the 12th century that is still in use today. It’s worth taking a pit stop at the Restaurant Zum See to enjoy the regional specialities. The view of the Weisshorn and the frozen lake makes the perfect accompaniment to your break. Once you’ve reached Alpe Äpnet, cross the valley ski run and hike downhill towards Egga. At the chapel of the same name you can immerse yourself in the history of Grächen. Before finally heading back to the village, take one last look at the “mountain of mountains”, the Matterhorn.
Directions: This winter hike to Alpe Äpnet starts at Grächen village square. It then continues between charming chalets, passing the sports centre on its way up to the edge of the forest. Once there, follow the path as it makes a broad turn to the left, then continues on level ground through Grächen forest to the Restaurant Zum See and on to Alpe Äpnet, following the Drieri and Eggeri bisses along the way. After crossing the valley ski run at the barbecue area, hike on towards Ritti, Egga and finally back into the village.
Highest point: 1,755 m
Endpoint: Alpe Äpnet
Height profile: © outdooractive.com
Equipment: We recommend:
good footwear clothing suitable for the weather: always carry a waterproof jacket hat or cap sunscreen bottle for water, picnic camera hiking poles (optional) printout of this hike (click “Print” icon, top right, to download)
Safety instructions: Use of the trails and the information on this website is at hikers’ own risk. Local conditions may entail changes to routes. Valais/Wallis Promotion accepts no liability for the accuracy and completeness of information on this website.
Bring a map. Download full description of this route including large-scale map by clicking on “Print” icon, top right of this page. Use marked trails only, and observe all signposting – for your own safety, to safeguard grazing animals and to avoid disturbing wildlife. Please be considerate to other trail users, and to the plants and animals. Do not leave any waste in nature. Take extra care protecting yourself from the sun at altitude. UV radiation can be exceptionally strong, even in cloudy weather. Plan hike carefully: take into consideration fitness level of each participant, weather forecast and season. Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, without warning. Appropriate clothing is therefore essential, along with adequate supplies of food and water. In uncertain weather, turn back in good time.
Inform others of planned route, and whenever possible, avoid going alone.
Tips: The view over the village is exceptional. Grächen is like a fairy tale, especially when there’s fresh snow on the ground. Stop off for a break at the Restaurant Zum See along the way.
Additional information: More information about the destination: Grächen
Directions: Motorway A9 direction Visp. Main road direction Saas-Fee / Zermatt junction Grächen.
Public transportation: Accessible by train and bus. From Visp or St. Niklaus train station, take the bus to Grächen.
Parking: Grächen is partially car-free. Two parking garages are available at the entrance of the village.