Schneeschuhtrail Bannalp

The Bannalp is a secret gem in the Engelberg Valley. This high valley with the peaceful Bannalp reservoir at its centre is surrounded by the mighty Gross Walenstock, Klein Walenstock and Bietstock peaks. Close by, the circular walk up to the Urnerstaffel begins. Snowshoe hikers can enjoy wonderful views!

The tour starts at the Bannalp‑Chrützhütte, close to the Chrützhütte bus stop. First the route passes the Kapelle Bannalp and shortly afterwards opens up to views of the Bannalpsee; the lake is a reservoir in the canton of Nidwalden. The Berggasthaus Bannalpsee sits slightly apart and remains visible as a point on the slope, before a short flat section gives the legs a breather.

Then the track gains height across wide alpine pastures; the ascent covers around 110 vertical metres up to just below the Bietstöck, the highest point of the circuit at about 1'720 m. On the open alp the views extend across the surrounding ridges, before the path slips into a final short descent. The mountain path later becomes a wider hiking trail that gently descends back to the Chrützhütte. The loop measures around 3 km and takes just over an hour.