Via Alpina
The Swiss Via Alpina, a north-south traverse of Switzerland through the Jura, Bernese Alps, Central Alps and Southern Alps, crossing five alpine ranges…
Route overview
The Via Alpina is an international network of alpine trails that crosses all eight alpine countries. The Swiss section, approximately 400 kilometres, runs from the French border at Lake Geneva to the German border at Lake Constance, traversing five distinct alpine regions: the Pre-Alps, the Bernese Alps, the Central Alps, the Eastern Alps, and the Northern Limestone Alps. The Swiss Via Alpina uses existing national and cantonal trails including sections of the Alpine Pass Route. It crosses major passes such as the Susten Pass, the Grimsel Pass, and the Furka Pass, and passes through iconic alpine landscapes including the Jungfrau region, the Engadine valley, and the Appenzell Alps. The route is well waymarked and supported by the extensive Swiss alpine hut network. The trail is demanding but not technically difficult, with some long days and significant elevation gain. The Swiss hut system provides reliable shelter and food, making the route accessible to experienced walkers with good fitness.
The Swiss Via Alpina, a north-south traverse of Switzerland through the Jura, Bernese Alps, Central Alps and Southern Alps, crossing five alpine ranges from Lake Geneva to Lake Constance.
Trail facts
- Country
- Switzerland
- Region
- Swiss Alps
- Distance
- c. 400 km
- Typical duration
- 3–4 weeks
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- c. 25,000 m cumulative
- Best season
- July–September
- Trail type
- Alpine traverse
Safety context
High passes are snow-covered until mid-July. Glacier moraine is unstable. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. The Swiss hut system requires advance booking.
The route is demanding with long days between huts. Some sections require glacier travel equipment. The full traverse takes three to four weeks.
Highlights
Montreux and Lake Geneva Jungfrau massif views Engelberg and the Titlis range Engadine valley and St Moritz Appenzell alpine pastures Lake Constance finish Swiss alpine hut network Five alpine regions
Why find a buddy
A multi-week alpine traverse of Switzerland's finest mountain scenery — a partner shares the hut-to-hut experience and the reward of crossing five alpine ranges from lake to lake.
Primary source
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Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.