Alpine Passes Trail, Stage 16/43

The attractive pass hike over the Saflischpass affords the first views of the Valais 4000-metre-mountain world. The village of Rosswald offers views down into the Rhone Valley from its scenic terrace.

The long traverse to Rosswald starts at the Binn, Dorf bus stop. Initially, the hiking trail passes through the settlements of the Binntal and descends to the Binna reservoir. The route then turns uphill. Alternating between forest and open meadows, it climbs steadily via Saflischmatta, quickly leaving the valley floor behind.

Higher up, the path becomes a white-red-white-marked mountain trail. Open pastures give way to barren, rocky terrain before the Saflischpass is reached. Shortly afterwards, the highest point of the hike lies at around 2,560 m. Here, the long ascent of roughly 1,350 metres has been completed.

The descent leads back across pastures and later through forest towards Rosswald. Near Restaurant Fleschboden, the trail once again passes close to a refreshment stop. Finally, the route reaches Rosswald and ends a few steps from the bus stop of the same name. A little over six hours should be allowed for the 18 kilometres; the sustained ascent and long mountain trail require stamina.