Route on Swisstopo:

https://swisstopo.app/i/5/AX6XJF35

🥾 Route Overview

Start: Felskinn Station (2989 m)

End: Britannia Hut (3030 m)

Distance: ~4.5 km

Duration: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Glacier crossing is a T4 according to the website of the hut. You can do it without equipment though. I found it would be safer if you have hiking poles and even better: crampons.

Route Type: One-way (with glacier crossing). You can go the same way back.

Season: July – September (weather-dependent) In Winter they prepare a winter hiking path to the hut. Check their website for infos which paths are open.

Website: https://www.britannia.ch

🚠 Access & Starting Point

Take the Alpin Express cable car from Saas-Fee to Felskinn. The hike starts right at the top station. You’re immediately above the tree line, surrounded by alpine rock and ice!

🧊 Trail Description

From Felskinn, follow the marked trail across the Glacier. The route is generally tracked and safe in summer. Many people visit the hut, so you won't be alone after all. Plus it's like a snowy/icy path, so no huge crevasses in sight – may change if you visit during another time :)

You’ll first ascend slightly, then continue across mostly flat glacier terrain before descending and having a final steep hill to reach the hut.

Trail markers are painted on rocks and poles — follow them closely, especially in poor visibility. There are lots of them though. I found the trail very easy to figure out.

🏔️ Highlights & Scenery

• Expansive views of many glaciers

• Close-up glacier textures and crevasses (from a safe distance)

• Views of Allalinhorn, Strahlhorn, and the Mischabel range

• Arrival at the Britannia Hut: A historic SAC hut with a modern interior and panoramic terrace. (love their cake 😋)

⛏️ Equipment & Safety

• Sturdy hiking boots (high ankle, waterproof)

• Crampons or microspikes (I would recommend them)

• Hiking poles if you'd like (I wish I had them for the glacier passage)

• Weatherproof layers — the wind can be strong and sudden!

🏡 Britannia Hut Info

Altitude: 3,030 m

Facilities: Restaurant, dormitories, toilets, water, snacks

Popular for: Starting point for climbs of Allalinhorn, Strahlhorn, and ski tours in spring

Reservations: Do reserve online for overnight stays (especially weekends) It is often booked out some time in advance as it is a popular hut.

☀️ Tips & Warnings

• Start early to avoid soft glacier snow and weather changes

• Check glacier conditions before crossing — late season may expose ice or crevasses

• Don’t attempt in fog, snow, or storms without alpine experience

• Ideal as a first glacier experience for hikers with good fitness and caution