Cross-country skiing in Kandersteg

The 3 km-long trail follows the river Kander out of the village centre, in the direction of the Kandersteg Scout Centre. This trail has been prepared exclusively for the classic cross-country skiing technique, and proudly bears the label «Heart Trail Switzerland» awarded by Loipen Schweiz.

The 5 km route starts with a gentle climb, heads out around the back of the village, and passes the scouting centre’s camp site before arriving at the entrance to the Lötschberg tunnel. An easy descent back to the starting point awaits you here at the end of the trail. The time spent between the easy climbs and descents is entertaining and full of variety.

This 7 km-long trail commences with the legendary ascent through the «Wildi» district. No need to worry though; shortly after the climb you are rewarded with a descent towards the Catholic church. The trail continues past the Oeschinensee cable car, which is followed by the second descent. Here you have the choice to either shorten the trail by heading left at the end of the descent, or to follow the original trail by heading right. The original route heads up along the sunniest ascent to the Nordic Arena ski jumping stadium.

This challenging 10 km-long trail is ideal for sporty cross-country skiers who want to reach higher altitudes in Kandersteg. The trail begins with the challenging «Wildi Ascent» and then heads out through the picturesque Oeschi forest. After a rapid descent you arrive directly back on the main cross-country skiing routes. The trail continues across the village and through the Höhwald forest to the west. On this section of the trail through the forest you can enjoy the best views. The trail continues along the impressive Allmenalp rock face, then heads around the back of the village and turns off at the Scout Centre. Further along the trail you will soon arrive at the traditional Ruedihus, a cosy country inn, before rejoining the main trail network.

This total package will make the heart of any cross-country skier beat faster. To reach an altitude of 1318 m and safe above sea level, both fitness and downhill skiing techniques are required – however, the view is absolutely worth it. The 14 km-long panorama trail passes several lookout points, starting from the Nordic Arena, and continues on to the viewpoint on the Höhwald, then past the Scout Centre and on towards the Sunnbüel valley station, before returning to the starting point at the cross-country skiing centre.

Please be aware that the «Höh» trail is available for shared use; cross-country skiing, hiking, horse riding and snowshoeing. Maintenance is handled by the Kandersteg Cross-country Ski Centre, after the cross-country skiing trails on the valley floor have been prepared (no daily maintenance).

Cross-country skiing by night is an absolute highlight at Kandersteg, in good snow conditions the trail is lit up from Monday to Friday evenings until 21:00 hours. The illuminated trail starts at the Hotel des Alpes and enables cross-country skiers to enjoy a magical tour of the picturesque valley floor, using both the classic technique and the skating technique.

From the mountain station of the Sunnbüel cable car, the trail heads down to the Spittelmatte plateau. This diversified trail leads past the Sennhütten and the Arvenwald back to the ski lift area. Between 3.5 and 8 km of the trail is maintained between Christmas and Easter, depending on snow conditions.