Walliser Sonnenweg, Stage 3/4

Panoramic hike on high-level BLS railway Südrampe (south ramp). Popular classic hike beside the Lötschberg Railway tracks to imposing Bietschtal bridge. Lovely path beside historic water channels (suonen) to hanging bridge; superb views at Brägji and Riedgarten.

From the Steg VS, Bäckerei bus stop, it is only a few steps to the starting point in Gampel. Initially, the route passes through a built-up area and climbs towards Hohtenn. The steeper section begins at the Church of St. Barbara: a white-red-white waymarked mountain path ascends through woodland and rocky terrain. Small hamlets are left behind as the path increasingly emerges onto open meadows and pastures.

By the Bärgbeizi Rarnerchumma, a good part of the ascent has been completed. Shortly afterwards, the hike reaches its highest point at Ritzubode, at around 1,030 m. The path then widens again and continues with gentle ascents and descents through alternating woodland, open slopes and rocky sections. Towards the end, the route descends to Ausserberg, where it finishes near the Church of St. Josef. The Ausserberg, Dorf bus stop is just over 100 m away. A little over three and a half hours should be allowed for the 12 km hike, with around 640 metres of ascent.