Alpe Äpnet – Hannigalp-Trail

Distance 2.47 km

Duration 1:19 Hours

Difficulty medium

Information

In summer, the cattle graze on the idyllic pastures of Alpe Äpnet, filling up on juicy alpine grass and fresh herbs. However, even in winter, when the cows are no longer up there, it’s still a picturesque location. Make sure you get your fill of this energy before starting the Hannigalp Trail, which begins on open terrain before heading into the snow-capped larch forest. Be sure to pace yourself, because the trail starts to climb again after the first section on level ground. Which makes sense, as the route ends on Hannigalp at 2,114 metres above sea level. Enjoy the tranquillity and look forward to a culinary reward on the panoramic terrace at the heart of the Hannigalp ski area. Even though you’ll spend most of the hike in the forest, you’ll get regular opportunities to enjoy the magnificent Alpine panorama, including the Weisshorn.

Characteristics

Ascent

351 Metres

Technique

Descent

11 Metres

Fitness level

Highest point

2.118 Metres

Quality of the experience

Lowest point

1.767 Metres

Scenery

Best season

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

POI details

Hike from Grächen to Alpe Äpnet, then strap on your snowshoes and cross the ski slope along the edge of the forest. Shortly afterwards you’ll head into the romantic wintry forest of Grächen and take the path towards Hannigalp. The return journey follows the same route. Those looking for a more leisurely hike can take the Fairy Tale Cable Car back to Grächen.

Accessible by train and bus. From Visp or St. Niklaus train station, take the bus to Grächen.

Motorway A9 direction Visp. Main road direction Saas-Fee / Zermatt junction Grächen.

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