Hochstollen Circular Hike, Melchsee-Frutt

A challenging, panoramic summit circuit between Melchsee and Blausee. Steep mountain paths lead up to Hochstollen, with sweeping views of the Bernese Alps and Titlis.

From the old mountain station at Melchsee-Frutt, the trail first leads to Melchsee, whose waters are held back by an artificial dam. The route soon leaves the lakeshore and climbs across open alpine pastures to Balmeregghorn. The views extend to the Bernese Alps and Titlis. The mountain path then continues in a steady succession of ascents and descents over several high points before reaching the lowest part of the large circuit at Hääggenstubeli.

The long and, in places, very steep ascent to Hochstollen now begins. The pastures gradually give way to rocky terrain; with a little luck, marmots, chamois or ibex may be spotted. Near Hochstollen, the route reaches its highest point at around 2,450 m. The descent leads via Abgschütz back into gentler terrain.

On the final section, Blausee lies directly beside the trail. From its shore, the circuit leads across open ground and past the first houses of Frutt-Dorf, returning to the old mountain station at Melchsee-Frutt.