Best canyons around Schattenhalb, a municipality in the Bernese Oberland of Switzerland, are carved by glacial meltwaters and rivers. These natural formations offer dramatic landscapes and unique geological features. The region provides accessible pathways for visitors to explore these natural wonders. Schattenhalb is known for its impressive gorges, which are a significant part of the Alpine landscape.
Last updated: May 20, 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 canyons around Schattenhalb are unique due to their dramatic landscapes, carved by glacial meltwaters and rivers over millennia. They offer impressive geological features, such as the narrow, deep passages of the Aare Gorge and the wild, romantic scenery of the Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge, characterized by unique rock formations and waterfalls.
Yes, several canyons around Schattenhalb are suitable for families. The Aare Gorge is particularly well-suited, with a well-secured path of footbridges and tunnels accessible for all ages. The Rosenlaui Glacier Gorge is also considered family-friendly, offering an impressive natural experience with its waterfalls and unique rock formations.
Accessibility varies by canyon. The Aare Gorge is notably accessible, with 2/3 of the gorge being wheelchair accessible from the west entrance. Well-maintained footbridges and tunnels make it easy to navigate for most visitors. Other gorges, like the Alpbach Gorge, can be more challenging with steep sections and slippery rocks, especially after rain.
The summer months are particularly pleasant for visiting the canyons, as they offer a cool and refreshing atmosphere. For example, the Aare Gorge is open from April to early November, with evening lighting available in July and August. It's generally best to check specific opening hours for each gorge before your visit.
You can expect to see a variety of stunning natural features. These include deep river gorges carved through limestone, powerful waterfalls, unique rock formations, and the shimmering glow from rocks in glacier gorges. The Grindelwald Glacier Gorge, for instance, is known for its bizarre rock formations and numerous streams.
Yes, the region offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find various mountain hikes around Schattenhalb, including routes like the 'Dossen Hut – Rosenlaui Gorge loop' or the 'First Cliff Walk by Tissot – Bachalpsee loop'. For more details on these and other trails, you can explore the Mountain Hikes around Schattenhalb guide.
Beyond exploring the gorges, Schattenhalb is a great base for other outdoor activities. You can find challenging MTB trails, such as the 'Grosse Scheidegg – Spectacular view loop', or scenic road cycling routes like 'The Grosse Scheidegg in the Jungfrau region'. Discover more options in the MTB Trails around Schattenhalb and Road Cycling Routes around Schattenhalb guides.
When visiting the canyons, it's advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as paths can sometimes be wet or uneven. Layers of clothing are recommended, as the temperature inside the gorges can be cooler than outside, even on warm days. A light rain jacket might also be useful.
Yes, for popular attractions like The Aare Gorge, there are large car parks available at both the main (west) and east entrances. These often include free parking for coaches and passenger cars. For other, less developed gorges, parking might be more limited, so it's good to check in advance.
While specific cafes are not detailed for every canyon, popular sites like The Aare Gorge are typically well-equipped with facilities. The surrounding towns like Meiringen and Innertkirchen also offer various dining and refreshment options within a short distance.
Visitors frequently express awe at the sheer power of nature evident in these gorges. They appreciate the impressive views, the unique geological formations, and the refreshing atmosphere, especially on hot days. The accessibility of many paths, allowing people of all ages to experience these natural wonders, is also highly valued.


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