Grindelwald First - everything you need to know about Top of Adventure 2025

Grindelwald First is a mountain ridge, located north of Grindelwald at 2184 meters above sea level. It can be reached with the Firstbahn from Grindelwald in only 25 minutes.

8 Highlights at Grindelwald First

• The First Cliff Walk by Tissot is an adrenaline hot spot with popular selfie point at the viewing platform.
• The comfortable Firstbahn gondola takes 25 min from Grindelwald via Bort and Schreckfeld to the First.
• In addition to the 6-seater gondola lift, the Firstbahn also includes three chairlifts and two ski lifts.
• The First Flyer and the First Glider are two popular experiences for four people each between First and Schreckfeld. They give Grindelwald First its name "Top of Adventure".
• The First Mountain Carts and the First Trotti Bikes are available in summer between Schreckfeld and Bort or Bort and Grindelwald.
• In addition to the Eiger and Jungfrau, the mountain giants Wetterhorn, Schreckhorn and Fiescherhorn rise from north to south. The Mönch is hidden by the Eiger.
• The famous Bachalpsee is a 60-minute hike from the First.
• From Grindelwald First you can hike to the Faulhorn to experience the world's longest toboggan run, the Pintenfritz, in winter.

In addition to the many adventure possibilities on Grindelwald First, you can go on wonderful hikes here. You always have the impressive 4000-meter mountains in view, especially the Eiger.

In addition to easy hikes, difficult high-altitude hikes are also possible. At the cable car station Bort you will find a large alpine playground. Children have here all possibilities to really let off steam.

Sights at Grindelwald First

Grindelwald First has a special sight with a special thrill. In addition, there is the uniquely beautiful view of the 4000-mountain world with the Eiger in the foreground. On the rocks the alpine jackdaws are the attraction.

First Cliff Walk by Tissot

The First Cliff Walk by Tissot is an exciting walkway that leads along the rock face at an altitude of 2166 m above sea level. The path also features a suspension bridge, adding an extra thrill to the experience. This single-cable suspension bridge has been built close to the rock wall.

Both ends of the curved suspension bridge are anchored in the rock. It has a walkway made of metal mesh, offering a breathtaking view downwards. Despite this, it's built to be sturdy. However, it does sway a bit when many people cross at the same time.

The view of the 4000-meter high mountains is exceptionally beautiful and gets even better on a small viewing platform. This platform extends about 45 meters out over the abyss and has a glass floor. It's known as a famous selfie spot and adrenaline hotspot, with a view down that seems to go on forever.

The distinctly shaped Eiger mountain is particularly visible in the foreground. Visitors to the First Cliff Walk by Tissot should not be afraid of heights. The watchmaker Tissot has co-financed the creation of this walkway.

The First Cliff Walk is open year-round during the operating hours of the First gondolas. Access is free. Offer by Swiss Activities:

• Grindelwald First Ticket Cable Car Round Trip

Bachalpsee near Grindelwald First

Bachalpsee is about an hour's walk from Grindelwald First. The mountain lake, which lies at 2266 meters above sea level, is considered particularly picturesque. The surrounding mountain giants are reflected in it. These include, for example, the Finsteraarhorn, the Schreckhorn and the Wetterhorn. At sunset, the view becomes spectacular

The Bachalpsee is separated into two parts by a natural dam. The lower part is almost eight meters lower than the upper one. Around the lake you will find moorland through which the Milibach meanders. It flows from the lake over the Bachläger waterfall into the Schwarze Lütschine. The moor landscape is of national importance and is explained on a nature trail.

Hikes from Grindelwald First down to Bachalpsee are very popular. In winter it is worth taking the toboggan with you. The toboggan run leads directly to Bort.

Alpine Playground at the Bort Cable Car Station

The Alpine Playground Bort is a perfect addition to your visit to Grindelwald First. With 700 square meters of space, kids of all ages have plenty of room to play, climb, or simply run wild.

Situated at approximately 1570 m above sea level, the Alpine Playground is located on a gentle slope. It is overshadowed by the Eiger, standing at 3967 m above sea level, which creates a stunning backdrop alongside other majestic peaks. From Bort, you can reach Grindelwald First in just 14 minutes via the gondola.

Mountain Railways and Lifts at Grindelwald First

Railways in Grindelwald First (Firstbahnen)

Type	Valley Station (Name)	Valley Station (m a.s.l.)	Mountain Station (Name)	Mountain Station (m a.s.l.)	Length of Rail Track (m)	Travel Time (min)
6-person Gondola	Grindelwald	1065	Bort	1570	2614	11:00
6-person Gondola	Bort	1570	Schreckfeld	1955	1694	9:00
6-person Gondola	Schreckfeld	1955	First	2168	917	5:00

Chairlifts and Ski Lifts at Grindelwald First (Firstbahnen)

Lift Type	Base Station (m a.s.l.)	Top Station (m a.s.l.)	Length of Route (m)	Travel Time (min)
4-Seater Chairlift Schilt Quattro	1949	2259	1623	6:00
4-Seater Chairlift Grindel	1729	2019	1065	3:50
4-Seater Chairlift Oberjoch Express	2168	2500	1503	5:30
Ski Lift Bärgelegg	1727	1933	950	2:50

Experiences at the Top of Adventure

Grindelwald First is considered the Top of Adventure with the First Cliff Walk, First Rider, First Flieger, Trottibike, and Mountain Carts. These activities are so popular that even with a ticket, you often have to wait. It’s a good idea to head up as early as possible.

Offer by Swiss Activities:

• Grindelwald First Adventure Package with Train Ticket

First Flieger from Grindelwald First to Schreckfeld

The First Flieger is a popular year-round adventure starting from Grindelwald First. Up to four people can fly together from First to Schreckfeld, all secured in their harnesses.

• Length: 800 m
• Height: 50 m
• Speed: 84 km/h
• Weight: 35 to 125 kg

First Glider from Grindelwald First to Schreckfeld

On the First Glider, up to four people fly secured on their stomachs in harnesses. This flight under a stylized kite takes place from First to Schreckfeld all year round. Beforehand, the glider is pulled backwards from Schreckfeld to First.

• Length: 800 m
• Height: 50 m
• Speed: 83 km/h (backwards 72 km/h)
• Weight: up to 125 kg
• Minimum age: 10 years
• Minimum height: 130 cm

First Mountain Cart ride from Schreckfeld to the middle station Bort

The Mountain Cart combines a go-kart with a toboggan. It is driven exclusively in summer (May to October) from Schreckfeld to the middle station Bort. A Mountain Cart has three all-terrain wheels. Since the wheels are widely spaced, the center of gravity is low. Even at higher speeds, the mountain cart therefore lies well on the road. Hydraulic brakes provide additional safety.

• Track length: 3 km
• Duration: 30 min
• Altitude difference: 356 hm
• Minimum height: 135 cm
• Helmet compulsory

First Trotti Bike ride from the middle station Bort to Grindelwald

Only in summer (May to October) you can ride the Trotti Bike. The Trotti Bike is a mixture of a scooter and a bike and is especially popular with families. From the middle station Bort you ride down to Grindelwald.

• Route length: 3.5 km
• Duration: 30 min
• Altitude difference: 566 hm
• Minimum height: 125 cm
• helmet compulsory

Activities from Grindelwald First

The hiking area around Grindelwald First is popular in both summer and winter, thanks to the stunning views of the 4000-meter mountain landscape. Here, you can experience the mountains up close by paragliding in tandem, giving you a more intense connection with the surroundings. In winter, the Grindelwald First skiing area is a go-to spot for skiers and sledders alike.

The most popular activities at Grindelwald First include:

• Hiking, winter hiking, and snowshoeing
• Paragliding
• Sledding
• Skiing and snowboarding

Offers from Swiss Activities:

• Grindelwald First Paragliding Tandem
• Sledding Ticket Grindelwald First Bachalpsee

Hiking and winter hiking at Grindelwald First

Grindelwald First is ideal for hiking. In summer and winter you always have the huge mountains in view and the choice of shortening your hike by cable car, toboggan or scooter bike.

All hiking trails are signposted with yellow signposts.

First - Bachalpsee - First

The high moors around the Bachalpsee, with extensive meadows, have quite a few benches. A rather easy hiking trail.

• Distance: 6 km
• Duration: 1:45 hrs.
• Height difference: 188 hm↑↓
• Season: all year round (with a short, steep climb at the beginning)

First - Schreckfeld

In the direction of the Oberjoch chairlift valley station, the hiking trail continues to the Schreckfeld. It is suitable for baby carriages and wheelchairs. The view of the Wetterhorn is overwhelming.

• Distance: 2.4 km
• Duration: 0:40 hrs.
• Height difference: 3 hm↑, 215 hm↓
• Season: all year round

First - Bachalpsee - Hiendertellti - Grosse Scheidegg

The panoramic hike leads up and down and is very varied. On the way you pass the Chlosterseeli (Antseeuwen)

• Distance: 13.4 km
• Duration: 4:50 hrs.
• Height difference: 794 hm↑, 998 hm↓
• Season: June to October

First - Bachalpsee - Waldspitz - Bort (flower trail)

Alpine flora, high moor landscapes and pure nature can be experienced on the flower trail. More than 60 flower species are signposted. The view shows the Schreckhörner and the Finsteraarhorn.

• Distance: 8.0 km
• Duration: 2:30 hrs.
• Height difference: 152 hm↑, 757 hm↓
• Season: May to September (with steep section)

First - via ferrata Schwarzhorn - First

This difficult hike with climbing interludes is only recommended for very experienced mountaineers. Otherwise it can be booked with a mountain guide in Grindelwald.

• Distance: 8.3 km
• Duration: 6:00 hrs.
• Height difference: 937 hm↑↓
• Season: July to September (with ladders and safety elements)

First - Schilt - barbecue area in Oberläger

The marmot nature trail leads from Grindelwald First to Grosse Scheidegg. The path shows information boards about the marmot at intervals.

• Distance: 7.0 km
• Duration: 2:00 hrs.
• Height difference: 234 hm↑, 434 hm↓
• Season: June to October

First - Faulhorn - Schynige Platte

This hiking trail has the official number 62 and is considered particularly popular.

• Distance: 16.0 km
• Duration: 6:00 hrs.
• Height difference: 629 hm↑, 835 hm↓
• Season: June to October (with partial rock and scree)

Paragliding from Grindelwald First

An incredible experience awaits you with a tandem paragliding flight. Taking off from Grindelwald First means starting at an altitude of 2,150 m above sea level. During the flight, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking close-up view of the mountain peaks Schreckhorn (4,078 m above sea level) and Wetterhorn (3,692 m above sea level).

Offer from Swiss Activities:

• Grindelwald First Tandem Paragliding

Winter Activities at Grindelwald First Ski Resort

The Grindelwald First Ski Resort stretches northeast of Grindelwald over the slopes of the Schwarzhorn. Here, you'll find long and varied descents all facing the sun. You'll also have a view of the world-famous Eiger North Face.

Winter sports take place primarily at altitudes between 1,050 and 2,500 meters above sea level. You have access to 49 ski runs and 4 km of ski touring routes. Continuous skiing is available from mid-December to the end of March.

A thrilling snow park at the Bärgelegg lift helps you practice. It is 650 meters long and a meeting point for freestylers. Here, you'll find various boxes and rails that can be combined for jumps. A 130-meter-long halfpipe is the centerpiece of the park. A drag lift brings you back to the starting point.

At Grindelwald First, you'll also find particularly long sledding runs. If you hike from Grindelwald First to the Faulhorn, you can reward yourself with the longest descent in the world. The 15 km Pintenfritz takes about 40 minutes and runs right alongside the Bachalpsee. Alternatively, you can ride from First via Schreckfeld to Bort.

Offers from Swiss Activities:

• Sledding Ticket Grindelwald First Bachalpsee
• Grindelwald First Carving for Advanced
• Grindelwald First Ski School Black League Kids
• Grindelwald First Freestyle Ski Afternoon

Mountain huts and restaurants at Grindelwald First

In Grindelwald First and surroundings you will find several huts and restaurants.

Alpinhotel Bort

The Alpinhotel Bort is located at the first middle station of the Firstbahn. Overnight guests are allowed to drive up in summer. There are 10 cozy rooms available. One of them is a single room, the other rooms are for 2 to 4 or 6 uncomplicated guests. The restaurant is à la carte and uses only Swiss meat.

Open: December to October

Suitable for: Families

First mountain inn

The First mountain inn is located right next to the First mountain station. The view of the surrounding mountains is breathtaking. The restaurant also has a large sun terrace, which is divided into self-service and service. In addition to shared rooms and dormitories (40 people), double and family rooms are also available. Shower and WC are available on the floors.

Open: December to October

suitable for: Families and groups_

Schreckfeld Mountain Restaurant

The Schreckfeld mountain restaurant offers home-style cooking made mainly from regional products. The restaurant is located directly in the hiking or winter sports area and only 50 m next to the cable car station Schreckfeld.

In the served restaurant you will find 150 seats inside and 250 outside In winter there is a special feature here: a satellite kitchen in the snow. Guests can thus directly watch the preparation of the dishes.

Mountain inn Waldspitz

Not far from the Bort railroad station you will find the Waldspitz mountain inn. The terrace offers an unforgettable view of the Eiger, Schreckhorn and Wetterhorn. Overnight stay is also possible. There is a double room, a family room and two multi-bed rooms (12 and 14 persons) with a common washroom. Traditional Swiss cuisine is served in the restaurant and on the outdoor terrace.

Open: December to October

Suitable for: Families

Genepi ski hut

The Genepi ski hut is located a few meters above the First mountain inn on Oberjoch.

Anja's Skibar

The ski bar is located about 15 minutes walk above the First mountain station and close to the Oberjoch ski slope (blue/red).

Bärgelegg Hut

The Bärgelegg Hütte is located not far from the Bärgelegg ski lift. As a ski bar it is located directly next to the halfpipe.

Location and Getting to Grindelwald First

Grindelwald is well connected to an excellent transport network.

By Car

You can reach Grindelwald via the highways from Zurich, Geneva, or Basel through Bern or Lucerne to Interlaken. From Interlaken, the Grindelwaldstrasse Route 6 leads through the mountains straight to Grindelwald.

If you're traveling by car or motorcycle from Meiringen, the pass road over Grosse Scheidegg offers an adventurous route. However, expect road closures at the pass in winter.

There are parking spaces available at the valley station of the First cable cars. Long-term parking can be found at the Pfingsteggbahn parking lot. In winter, it’s best to take the ski bus 22 from both parking areas, which goes directly to the valley station of the Grindelwald First gondola.

By Public Transport

The historic Bernese Oberland Railway travels from Interlaken to Grindelwald in about half an hour. The way to the valley station of the First cable cars is well signposted.

Grindelwald First is a good destination for families and groups. The activities and adventure offers are very diverse and the surrounding mountains are spectacular