The Aletsch Glacier is the longest in the Alps and one of Switzerland’s most impressive sights. You can explore it in different ways – either walking along the ridge for big views or crossing a valley with a suspension bridge. Here are two great ways to see it.

1. Ridge Walk with Glacier Views

• Best for: Big views without a full-day hike

• Season: July to mid-October (early summer = more ice patches, October = yellow larch trees)

• Effort: Moderate

Route idea:
Take the Moosfluh cable car and follow the ridge path to Hohfluh. If the chairlift is open (mid-July to mid-August), ride down to Riederalp. If not, walk down – about 40 min more.

Want a longer challenge? Keep going to Bettmerhorn. The last part is uphill and more open, but the glacier view is incredible.

Timings:

• Moosfluh to Hohfluh: ~45 min • 2.5 km

• Moosfluh to Bettmerhorn: ~2 hr 50 min • 8.5 km • 750 m climb

Tips:

• Mornings = bluer ice, afternoons = warmer but busier

• The ridge can be windy – bring a layer

• If clouds move in, views can disappear fast

2. Suspension Bridge – Belalp to Riederalp

• Best for: A mix of glacier views, forest paths, and a bit of adrenaline

• Season: July to mid-October

• Effort: Moderate to challenging

Route idea:
From Blatten, take the cable car to Belalp. Follow the path to the suspension bridge over the Massa Gorge. After crossing, climb through larch forests until you reach Riederalp.

Timings:
~12 km • 4.5–5.5 hrs • 600 m up, 700 m down

Tips:

• Start early to avoid wind on the bridge

• Bring enough water – not many refill spots

• You can turn back after the bridge if you want a shorter walk

Getting there

• By car: Park at Mörel (Riederalp) or Blatten (Belalp)

• By train: From Brig, connect to Mörel or Blatten by bus and cable car

• Cable cars: Usually 8:30–17:00 – check seasonal times