Loipe Saastal

The perfectly groomed cross-country ski trail meanders through snow-covered larch forests along the frozen Saaser Vispa and offers fantastic views of the Saas Valley’s mountains and glaciers.

The 23-kilometre trail starts in Saas-Grund, just over 200 metres from the Saas-Grund, Schulhaus bus stop. Initially, the circuit heads down the valley across open valley floors and through short stretches of forest. Near Bidermatten, the Antoniuskapelle, built in 1692, stands a little off the route; shortly afterwards, the trail reaches Saas-Balen and passes close to the round church.

From there, it heads back up the valley. For a short stretch, the trail follows the Fee Vispa before the houses of Saas-Almagell come into view between the forest and the open valley floor. Beyond the village, the longer ascent begins: in total, the circuit involves around 500 metres of elevation gain. The highest point, at just under 1,900 metres, is reached shortly after the halfway mark.

The trail then leads back down the valley. Sections of forest alternate with open ground, while the settlements of the Saastal reappear in between. After just over six hours, the circuit ends back in Saas-Grund; from there, it is again just over 200 metres to the Saas-Grund, Schulhaus bus stop.