Best canyons around Grindelwald are carved into the alpine landscape, showcasing the region's geological history. Grindelwald is situated in the Bernese Oberland, surrounded by mountains and valleys shaped by glacial activity. The area is characterized by dramatic rock formations and powerful rivers. These natural features create deep gorges and canyons, offering unique insights into the earth's processes.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
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1960 The bridge and paths to the ,,Trockenen Lamm“ were dismounted because the cost of maintenance was too high. 1977 Financial investment was focused upon infrastructure and visitor's safety. 1987 The Aareschlucht restaurant at the west entrance was renovated. 2003 The MIB train stop at Aareschlucht Ost was accessed by a new swing-bridge. 2005 After a very bad storm, the gorge was closed for a few days during peak season because of safety reasons. 2008 The Aare-Bistro at the east entrance was built.
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1946 On 6 May, the MIB train (between Meiringen and Innertkirchen) was granted permission to be used for public transport. The train belongs to the Oberhasli Hydroelectric Power Company and had previously been operating solely as a transport and workers' train for the company since 1 August 1926. 1947 The opening of the Susten pass road lead to a visitor's record 180000 admissions. 1957 The tram line was replaced by a bus connection.
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Building Phases 1888 At the same time that the road to, and the paths in the gorge were built, the train line over the Brünig pass was opened. This made the Alps accessible for tourists, who came in droves. 1898 The gorge was completely accessed and passable throughout. A second entrance was built from the „Trockene Lamm“. 1912 With the introduction of electricity the Aare gorge was illuminated at night which was a huge attraction at the time. A tram line connected Meiringen with the Aare gorge1914 The flood lights for the evening illumination had to be given to the Swiss army. 1937 Evening illumination was newly installed using new vapour discharge lamps. 1940 Construction of the military cavern in the eastern part of the gorge. The entrance at „Trockenen Lamm“ was closed for safety reasons.
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Eastern entrance or exit of the Aare Gorge. Visiting the Aare Gorge is subject to a fee, but it's well worth it. Tickets are available here. Parking for cars and coaches is available right in front of the entrance. A small restaurant with restrooms offers a wonderful view from the terrace, especially in summer. Various interesting information boards are available.
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🌊🏞️ The Aare Gorge near Meiringen is an impressive natural wonder in the Bernese Oberland. This hike takes you through the narrow, up to 200-meter-deep gorge through which the Aare flows. 🌄🚶♂️ 🚗 The Aare Gorge is easy to reach from Meiringen. You can arrive by car or public transport. There are parking spaces at both entrances to the gorge - west and east. 🚶♂️The hike through the Aare Gorge is easy and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. The path is well secured and suitable for all ages. Entry usually costs around 10 CHF for adults. Start the hike at the west entrance of the Aare Gorge, which is located near the Aare Gorge West train station. Alternatively, you can also start at the east entrance. The path takes you along well-developed footbridges and through tunnels directly through the narrow gorge. The impressive rock faces and the roaring water of the Aare offer a unique natural experience. 📸
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A beautiful gorge, you can walk through it and take the train back or walk back, cool and pleasant especially in summer
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There is coffee and tasty treats at the entrance and exit.
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The most popular canyons around Grindelwald include The Aare Gorge, known for its impressive 200-meter-deep chasm and well-secured path. Another highly-rated spot is the Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge, an effervescent natural wonder with ideal picnic spots. The Grindelwald Glacier Gorge also offers fascinating views of the White Lütschine Gorge with towering 300-meter-high rock walls.
Yes, several canyons around Grindelwald are very family-friendly. The Aare Gorge features a well-secured path suitable for all ages, and 2/3 of it is even wheelchair accessible from the west entrance. The Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge is also highlighted as ideal for families with small children, offering impressive views and picnic spots. The Grindelwald Glacier Canyon itself is considered excellent for all ages, with pathways generally suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
The canyons showcase dramatic geological formations carved by glaciers and rivers. In the Grindelwald Glacier Gorge, you'll see towering 300-meter-high rock walls, traces of glacial erosion, and unique veins of pink and green marble. The Aare Gorge is a narrow, 200-meter-deep chasm where the river has carved its way into limestone. The Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge is known for its effervescent glacial waters and impressive rock formations.
The main canyon attractions like The Aare Gorge typically open from April or May until November. The Grindelwald Glacier Canyon is generally open from May to October. Visiting during summer (July and August) can be particularly appealing, as some gorges like the Aare Gorge offer evening lighting. On hot summer days, the gorges provide a cool escape, with temperatures inside the Grindelwald Glacier Canyon remaining around 10°C (50°F).
Yes, the Grindelwald Glacier Canyon offers thrilling experiences. A major highlight is the 'Spiderweb,' a large, suspended net seven meters above the rushing Lütschine River, offering a unique perspective. For adrenaline seekers, the Canyon Swing allows a free-fall leap from a 90-meter platform, swinging through the gorge at speeds up to 120 km/h. This activity requires prior booking.
Accessibility varies by canyon. The Aare Gorge is notably accessible, with 2/3 of the gorge being wheelchair accessible from the west entrance. The Grindelwald Glacier Canyon also features pathways generally suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, though some sections may be narrow. It's always advisable to check specific conditions with the attraction directly before your visit.
The region around Grindelwald offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can explore various mountain hikes, including routes like the Oberer Grindelwald Glacier loop or the First Cliff Walk by Tissot. For cycling enthusiasts, there are options for gravel biking and touring, with routes like the Männlichen Viewpoint loop or the Lauterbrunnen Valley loop. You can find more details on these activities in the Mountain Hikes around Grindelwald, Gravel biking around Grindelwald, and Cycling around Grindelwald guides.
The Grindelwald Glacier Canyon is designed with educational experiences in mind. It's divided into six themed areas that cover geology, water, glaciers, and local mysticism. Information boards provide fascinating insights into the gorge's formation and natural history, enriching your visit with knowledge about the powerful natural processes that shaped the landscape.
Entry fees vary by canyon. For The Aare Gorge, the entry fee is typically around 10 CHF for adults, and a hike through takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. The Trümmelbach Falls, which are underground waterfalls within a gorge, also have an entry fee. For the Grindelwald Glacier Canyon, visitors typically spend 1-2 hours exploring the walkways and features. It's recommended to check the official websites for the most current pricing and opening hours.
Yes, from May to October, the Grindelwald Glacier Canyon offers a special 'night experience' on Friday evenings. During this time, the gorge is illuminated with colorful lighting until 10 PM, adding a magical and unique dimension to your visit. This provides a different perspective compared to a daytime visit.
Visitors frequently praise the sheer impressiveness and natural grandeur of the canyons. Many highlight the unique experience of walking through narrow gorges with towering rock walls and roaring rivers, feeling how tiny humans are in comparison to these natural wonders. The well-secured paths, family-friendly options, and the cool, refreshing atmosphere on hot days are also highly appreciated. The 'Spiderweb' and Canyon Swing in the Grindelwald Glacier Canyon are often cited as thrilling highlights.
The Grindelwald Glacier Canyon is easily accessible from Grindelwald village. You can reach it via a short bus ride, or if you prefer a scenic walk, it's about a 20-35 minute walk from the village center. This makes it a convenient attraction to visit during your stay in Grindelwald.


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