Alpine Passes Trail, Stage 20/43

This is a demanding stage of the mountain path between Saas-Fee and Grächen, which is very exposed in places. Tricky passages are secured with wire ropes. On the hike you experience spectacular views down into the Saas Valley and enthralling perspectives of the Fletschhorn, Weissmies and Matterhorn.

From the bus terminal in Saas-Fee, the hiking trail leads out of the village and climbs to Alp-Hitta. It soon becomes a mountain trail and continues uphill through open meadows and pastures. Stretches of woodland provide variety before increasingly rocky terrain comes to define the character of this long tour.

After several hours, the highest point is reached at around 2,390 metres. From here, the long descent towards Grächen begins. The mountain trail initially remains in open, rocky terrain, with the forest drawing closer again later on. At Hannigalp, the route passes the small chapel and joins an easier hiking trail.

Towards the end, the small lake Zum See lies directly beside the route, while the restaurant of the same name is also just a few steps away. Grächen is then quickly reached. The hike is around 20 kilometres long, takes just under eight hours and requires good stamina, with approximately 1,250 metres of ascent and 1,450 metres of descent. It is just under 200 metres from the route to the Grächen, Zentrum bus stop.