The best walks and hikes around Totesee
4.7
(926)
8,615
hikers
19
hikes
Hiking around Totesee is centered on the Grimsel Pass in the Swiss Alps, an area characterized by high alpine landscapes and significant hydrological features. The region features majestic mountains, the natural Totesee lake, and several dammed reservoirs like Grimselsee and Oberaarsee. It also serves as a continental divide, with water flowing to either the Mediterranean or North Sea.
Best hiking trails around Totesee
- The most popular hiking route is View from Sidelhorn – View of Totesee loop from Grimselpass, a 6.0 miles (9.7 km) trail that takes 4 hours 14 minutes to complete, offering expansive views of Totesee and the surrounding peaks.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is View of the Rhone Glacier – Grätli Lake loop from Grimselpass, a difficult 7.2 miles (11.6 km) path. This route provides views of the Rhone Glacier and passes by Grätli Lake.
- Local hikers also love the Lake Jost loop from Grimselpass, a 4.8 miles (7.7 km) trail leading through alpine terrain around Lake Jost, often completed in about 2 hours 45 minutes.
- Hiking around Totesee is defined by alpine scenery, high mountain passes, and glacial lakes, with options for both moderate and difficult trails. The network offers routes suitable for various ability levels, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness for challenging sections.
- The routes in Totesee are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 280 reviews. More than 2600 hikers have used komoot to explore Totesee's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
5.0
(58)
448
hikers
9.74km
04:14
560m
560m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.9
(30)
205
hikers
11.7km
05:36
810m
810m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.4
(14)
74
hikers
7.72km
02:45
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(5)
38
hikers
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(5)
57
hikers
10.2km
04:36
630m
630m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Popular around Totesee
Tips from the Community
An eye-catcher at the lake
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The Sidelhorn is a 2764 m high mountain in the Bernese Alps massif in Switzerland. It lies on the border of the cantons of Valais and Bern and on the European main watershed. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sidelhorn
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Here you have an excellent view of the Totesee lake and the Grimsel Pass. A short stop is worthwhile.
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Speaking of the Grimsel Pass: The Grimsel Pass is in the heart of the Alps, an exceptional natural area. From a hydrological point of view, the large amounts of precipitation are unique. Here at the Grimsel Pass, this is an average of around 2300 litres per square metre per year. 300 litres of this evaporate per square metre, and 2000 litres per square metre leave the region as runoff in the Rhone or Aare. That is a lot of water: twice as much as the Swiss average and almost seven times as much as the average in Germany. Depending on which side of the pass the water drops reach the earth's surface, they flow into the Mediterranean or the North Sea. The Aare, with a total length of around 290 km, flows through the cantons of Bern, Solothurn and Aargau, crossing Lake Brienz, Lake Thun and Lake Biel. It is the longest river located entirely in Switzerland. Although the Aare carries more water on average at the confluence with the Rhine, it loses its name. After another 1000 km of flow, the Aare water flows into the North Sea as part of the Rhine. The Rhone, on the other hand, keeps its name until it flows into the Mediterranean. Its approximately 810 km long flow takes it through the Valais into Lake Geneva and from there via Lyon into the French Rhone Valley, where it repeatedly receives tributaries from the Western Alps. While the Aare flows into an oceanic climate, the Rhone carries the water from the Grimsel Pass into the Mediterranean climate zone, where the abundant snow and glacier meltwater from alpine rivers is very popular in the dry summers.
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The water of the Grimselsee has the colour of glacier milk. The play of cloud shadows on the surface of the lake makes the view from here spectacular
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Small chapel consecrated on 8 September 1961
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Monument at the Atlantic / Mediterranean watershed
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Totesee?
There are 19 hiking trails around Totesee, offering a variety of experiences in the high alpine landscape of the Grimsel Pass. These routes range from moderate to difficult, catering to different fitness levels.
What are the typical difficulty levels for hikes in the Totesee area?
The hikes around Totesee are primarily classified as moderate or difficult. There are 9 moderate trails and 10 difficult trails. Difficult routes often require good fitness, sure-footedness, sturdy shoes, and some alpine experience due to the challenging terrain and significant elevation changes.
Are there any circular walks around Totesee?
Yes, several circular walks are available. For example, the Grimsel Pass and the Totensee – Totensee (Grimsel Pass) loop from Grimselpass is a moderate 2.7 km loop directly around the lake. Another option is the Lake Jost loop from Grimselpass, a 7.7 km moderate trail through alpine terrain.
What kind of natural features and landmarks can I expect to see while hiking near Totesee?
The region is rich in natural features. You'll encounter the stunning Totensee (Grimsel Pass) itself, the impressive Grimsel Pass, and other glacial lakes like Grimselsee and Oberaarsee. A unique highlight is the Continental Divide Monument at Grimsel Pass, marking where water flows to either the Mediterranean or the North Sea. The Oberaar Panorama Road from Grimsel Pass also offers spectacular views.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Totesee?
The trails around Totesee are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 280 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the breathtaking alpine scenery, the dramatic mountain backdrops, and the serene beauty of the lake reflections.
Is there parking available for hikers at Totesee?
Yes, parking is generally available at Grimsel Pass, which serves as a common starting point for many trails around Totesee. It's advisable to arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.
Can I reach the Totesee hiking trails by public transport?
Grimsel Pass, where Totesee is located, is accessible by public transport, typically via post buses during the summer season. This allows hikers to reach the trailheads without a car. It's recommended to check current schedules before planning your trip.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options around Totesee?
While many trails are moderate to difficult, shorter and less strenuous options exist. The Grimsel Pass and the Totensee – Totensee (Grimsel Pass) loop from Grimselpass is a relatively short and moderate walk that could be suitable for families with older children or those accustomed to alpine environments.
What is the best time of year to hike around Totesee?
The best time to hike around Totesee is typically during the summer months, from late June to early October, when the Grimsel Pass is open and the trails are free of snow. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions and accessibility.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near the hiking trails at Totesee?
Yes, there are facilities at Grimsel Pass, including the Grimsel Hospiz, which offers accommodation and dining options. These can be convenient stops for refreshments or a meal before or after your hike.
What is the longest hike available in the Totesee area?
One of the longer and more challenging hikes is the View of the Rhone Glacier – Grätli Lake loop from Grimselpass. This difficult route spans 11.6 km and involves significant elevation changes, offering views of the Rhone Glacier.
What kind of views can I expect on the trails around Totesee?
Hikers can expect breathtaking panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, including majestic mountains, glacial lakes, and the serene waters of Totesee itself. Trails like View from Sidelhorn – View of Totesee loop from Grimselpass offer expansive vistas of the lake and surrounding peaks.
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