Hiking from First to Bachalpsee: A Dreamy Alpine Walk in Grindelwald, Switzerland

If you’re dreaming of pristine alpine lakes, panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, and an easy-to-moderate trail that feels straight out of a fairytale, hiking from First to Bachalpsee Lake is an absolute must. Tucked in the heart of Grindelwald, in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, this iconic walk is one of the most beloved in the Swiss Alps—and for good reason.

From riding a scenic cable car to traversing flower-filled meadows and gazing at the jagged Eiger peak, every step offers something magical. Whether you’re visiting in summer or shoulder season, the Bachalpsee hike is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking epic views without needing to summit a massive mountain.

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Where Is Bachalpsee?

Bachalpsee, also called Lake Bachalp, is a high-altitude alpine lake located near the First cable car station in Grindelwald, Switzerland. Surrounded by towering peaks like the Eiger, Finsteraarhorn, and Schreckhorn, the lake sits at around 2,265 meters above sea level and offers jaw-dropping reflections of the surrounding Swiss Alps.

Although it looks remote, it’s incredibly accessible—just a short ride from Grindelwald village via the Firstbahn cable car and a 3 km hike (each way) on a well-maintained trail.

Why Bachalpsee Hike Is Worth It

Let’s be honest—Switzerland has no shortage of stunning alpine walks. So what makes this one special?

• It’s short and sweet: The trail to Bachalpsee is just under 6 km round trip with gentle elevation gain, making it ideal for hikers of all levels.
• Unreal mountain views: Think snowy summits, wildflower-strewn pastures, and glacial lakes that shimmer under the sun.
• Postcard-perfect reflections: On calm days, Bachalpsee becomes a mirror for the mountains—perfect for photos.
• Tons to do nearby: After your hike, you can visit the First Cliff Walk, try the First Flyer zipline, or enjoy alpine dining at Berggasthaus First.

How to Get to First in Grindelwald

Getting to Grindelwald First is part of the adventure. The village of Grindelwald, located in the Bern region, is easily accessible by train or car. From there, head to the Firstbahn cable car station.

Here’s how to get there:

• By train: Take the train from Interlaken to Grindelwald. From the Grindelwald station, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Firstbahn station.
• By car: Drive to Grindelwald and park in one of the public parking areas (near the cable car is ideal).
• Cable car to First: The ride takes about 25 minutes and includes stunning views. Be sure to book your ticket in advance during peak summer months!

Trail Overview: First to Bachalpsee

Distance	6 km (3.7 miles) round trip
Time	1.5 to 2 hours round trip
Difficulty	Easy to Moderate
Elevation Gain	~188 meters (617 ft)
Best Time to Visit	Late June to mid-October

Step-by-Step: Hiking to Bachalpsee

Step 1: Start at First

As you step off the Firstbahn cable car, you’re immediately greeted by mountain air and incredible views. But before hitting the trail, don’t miss the First Cliff Walk—a free metal walkway that clings to the cliff edge and leads to a scenic platform. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s 100% worth it.

Step 2: Follow the Trail Signs to Bachalpsee

From the First station, look for the yellow signs pointing toward Bachalpsee or Bachalpsee Lake. The path begins with a gentle uphill slope, hugging the mountain with sweeping views of the Grindelwald valley below.

As you walk, the trail rolls through grassy meadows dotted with alpine flowers. Occasionally, you may even spot grazing cows and hear their iconic Swiss bells echoing through the hills.

Step 3: Arrive at the Lake

After about 45–60 minutes, you’ll reach a small rise. From here, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the lake—and it’s breathtaking. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Bachalpsee reflect the snowy mountain peaks so perfectly that it almost feels like a painting.

There are a few benches and grassy areas where you can stop for a picnic, soak up the sun, or snap some unbelievable photos.

Is Bachalpsee Worth the Hype?

Absolutely. Even if you’re not an avid hiker, the ease and beauty of this walk make it one of the best hikes in the Swiss Alps. Plus, the route is well-maintained and signed, so there’s little chance of getting lost.

Moreover, it offers so many postcard moments that you’ll probably take 200 photos before you even reach the lake. (Guilty.)

Tips for Hiking from First to Bachalpsee

Here are some tips to make the most of your Bachalpsee hike:

1. Start Early
The trail gets busy by mid-morning, especially in summer. For the best light and quietest paths, take the first cable car up around 8:00 or 8:30 AM.

2. Dress in Layers
Weather in the mountains can change fast. Even in July, mornings can be chilly, while afternoons warm up. Bring a light jacket or windbreaker.

3. Wear Good Hiking Shoes
While the trail is relatively easy, it’s still rocky and uneven in some sections. Supportive footwear will make a difference.

4. Pack Snacks and Water
There’s no food available at Bachalpsee, so bring what you need for a snack or light lunch by the lake. You could also grab lunch at the restaurant at the top of the gondola prior to embarking on the hike.

5. Don’t Skip the First Cliff Walk
It’s free, quick, and makes a thrilling pre- or post-hike stop.

6. Always Check the Webcams!
The Jungfrau region has a website that allows you to check the webcams at popular summit spots. This is invaluable! As you can see from my photos, the weather conditions can vary greatly.

Extend the Adventure: More Things to Do Near First

Once you’ve completed the hike, don’t rush back down. The First area is packed with adrenaline-pumping and family-friendly activities:

• First Flyer: A zipline that soars down the mountain at 80 km/h.
• First Glider: Fly like an eagle strapped into a giant wing.
• Mountain Cart or Trotti Bike: Ride down the alpine road with a little speed and a lot of fun.
• Schynige Platte: Consider hiking here if you’re in the mood for a longer trek with panoramic views.

Best Time to Hike to Bachalpsee

While the lake is most popular in summer, it can be stunning in early fall as well. Here’s a quick seasonal guide:

• Late June–Mid October: Best for hiking. Trails are clear, and wildflowers are in bloom.
• Spring: Trails may still be covered in snow. Check conditions before heading out. The view was completely fogged out on our most recent trip in May.
• Winter: The trail is inaccessible, but you can still enjoy snowshoeing or skiing nearby.

Where to Stay in Grindelwald

Grindelwald has a great mix of charming chalets and high-end hotels. Here are a few traveler favorites:

• Hotel Belvedere Grindelwald – A 4-star hotel with epic views and a fantastic spa.
• Eiger Selfness Hotel – Boutique vibe and centrally located.
• Hotel Kirchbühl – Cozy alpine charm with amazing balcony views.

Booking early is recommended, especially during summer.

Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen are also charming towns that would make a great home base.

Getting Tickets for Firstbahn

Tickets for the Firstbahn cable car can be purchased online or at the base station. You can buy single or round-trip tickets. If you’re planning multiple activities, look into:

• Jungfrau Travel Pass – Includes unlimited travel in the region.
• Berner Oberland Regional Pass – Good if you’re traveling more broadly in the Bern region.

FAQs About Hiking to Bachalpsee

How long does the hike take?
The average hiker completes the trail in about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip. But with photo stops and a snack break at the lake, give yourself 3 hours to enjoy it fully.

Can kids do this hike?
Yes! The trail is family-friendly with a manageable incline and no steep drop-offs. Bring a carrier for toddlers.

Is the trail open year-round?
No. The trail is typically open from May through October, depending on snow conditions.

Final Thoughts

The First to Bachalpsee hike is the kind of travel memory that sticks with you forever. Between the striking alpine scenery, manageable trail, and ease of access, it’s no wonder this is one of the most popular walks in the Swiss Alps. It’s an adventure you can squeeze into half a day, yet it offers rewards that last a lifetime.

So if you find yourself in Grindelwald, do yourself a favor: hop on that cable car and walk to one of the most iconic lakes in Switzerland.