Alpine Passes Trail, Stage 21/43

From the deepest valley in Switzerland over the Augstbord Pass at an altitude of 2,900 metres and back down to Gruben in the beautiful Turtmann Valley. This long route is captivating, with a tremendous view of the Mischabel chain including the Dom and Weisshorn.

From the Grächen, Zentrum bus stop, the route leads through the village and past the church. The long descent to St. Niklaus begins via Niedergrächen, reaching the lowest point at around 1,090 m after approximately five kilometres. Up to this point, the route follows a hiking trail before switching to a mountain hiking trail.

From St. Niklaus, the mountain hiking trail climbs steeply via Gaffine. The houses are left behind, and forest and alpine pastures now define the ascent; higher up, the terrain becomes increasingly rocky. After a total ascent of around 2,000 metres, the route reaches the Augstbordpass at just under 2,900 m, also its highest point. This packhorse pass links the Mattertal with the Turtmanntal and lies between the Schwarzhorn and Steitalhorn.

Beyond the pass, the long descent leads through open mountain terrain, then later across pastures and through forest into the Turtmanntal. After a good nine hours, the houses of Gruben come into view. The destination is at Restaurant Schwarzhorn, just a few steps from the Gruben VS bus stop.