Three Lakes Trail and Aletsch Glacier: Valais, Southwest Switzerland
A trail that takes you right along the biggest glacier in the Alps, with unparalleled views of this massive river of ice.
The "Big Three Lakes" trail suffers from poor marketing. Yes, you get to see the three lakes of Bettmersee, Blausee, Märjelensee - but they are pretty small (one is basically a puddle at the height of summer) and the hike description glosses over the best part: the Aletsch Glacier! The trail takes you right along the biggest glacier in the Alps, and you get unparalleled views of this massive river of ice. You can even go all the way down to the glacier's edge to really take in its sheer size - and also understand how quickly it is receding :( Full disclosure: I didn't do this hike myself, but Raunaq (my partner in crime in hiking, and in all things) embarked on the trail while I was in California and gave it rave reviews. He noted that it’s the type of hike I would have a “moment of despair” on, meaning it’s probably pretty long and tough. 21km, 6 hours, 3 lakes, 1 glacier. I can't wait to check it out for myself.
Start and End: Betten Talstation, then Bettmeralp cable car up to Bettmeralp.
Basic Route: Betten talstation - Bettmeralp – Bettmersee – Blausee – Biel – Hohbalm – Roti Chumma – Märjelensee – Obers Tälli (tunnel) – Fiescheralp > Bettmeralp > Betten talstation
Length and Rating: Moderately difficult. It’s going to be a long, full day, especially if you are making this a day trip from Zurich.
