engelberg ski tour

Visitors on a safari are always keen to see the legendary "Big Five" - elephants, lions, rhinoceroses, buffalos and leopards. Freeriders in Engelberg, are mad about a different "Big Five": five unique runs and unforgettable powder-filled experiences.

Big like an elephant

When people think of freeriding in Engelberg, it's usually the Laub they have in mind. Its great breadth and length and easy accessibility has brought this mighty descent global fame. The Laub is a long off-piste run with a 1200m vertical descent.

Majestic like a lion

The Galtiberg route from TITLIS down to Engelberg promises you 2000 meters of spectacular freeride adventure. The "Galti" is one of the longest freerider descents in the whole of the Alps. A mountain guide is highly recommended!

As thick-skinned as a rhino

The Steinberg offers a range of descents that provide enjoyable freeriding over playful, undulating terrain. Bear in mind that there are crevasses on the Steinberg. A mountain guide is highly recommended.

Adaptable like the buffalo

Small, medium and large Sulz invite you to playful freeriding for all tastes and all levels of ability. Always read the avalanche forecast before heading out!

Concealed like a Leopard

The stone valley is somewhat hidden behind the Jochstock, but it is actually easy to get to on the Jochstock-Xpress. Because of its north-west aspect, good powder snow can often be found here even days after the last snowfall.

Freeride & Safety Info

Test your avalanche equipment in the new Avalanche Safety Competence Centre at the Mammut Store. 

Daily from 12.00 - 6.00 pm. 

HIGH 5 Ski Tours

Is ski touring your passion or would you like to gain your first experience in this gentle winter sport? The valley of Engelberg has a large number of ski routes that allow you to climb the most beautiful viewpoints against an imposing mountain backdrop and with more or less effort! You will be rewarded with a magnificent deep-snow run free of charge!

Urner Haute Route

This impressive ski tour through the unspoilt nature of the Central Swiss Alps used to be one of the major Alpine crossings. Today, the tour from Andermatt to Engelberg, which takes several days, is one of the absolute "ski tour delicacies" and should definitely be on your bucket list!

A difficult but impressive ski tour with breathtaking views.

This is a great ski tour for beginners. The Salistock offers beautiful views of Engelberg and the Engelberg Valley as far as Lake Lucerne.

Titlis round tour

The Titlis round tour offers long downhill runs, short climbs, rappelling into steep couloirs, and a great glacier hike. And then a spectacular north-facing descent from the Grassen bivouac to Engelberg.

The Brisen ski tour, with its magnificent panoramic views and descents, is one of the most popular tour destinations in the region.

Courses & Offers

Are you looking for your next mountain and freeride adventure? Find the right deals here that offer you the perfect experience, are organised by professionals and promise unforgettable moments.

Snow 'n Fish

If you are looking for a very special experience in nature, you will find it here. Lake Engstlen is a paradise for ice fishing and there are wonderful ski tours around the lake. The Hotel Engstlenalp, which will also be our accommodation, is nestled in this dreamlike mountain landscape.

Mountain Guides Course Program

The Engelberg Mountaing Guides offer many different courses and excursions. In their program you will surely find what you are looking for.

Event & Deals

Are you looking for your next mountain and freeride adventure? Here you will find a selection of guides and rental centers to make your powder experience perfect.

AVALANCHE TRAINING CENTER Free of charge

Below the Laubersgrat valley station, the Avalanche Training Center ATC is installed in winter. Avalanche training facilities provide an opportunity to practise with avalanche transceivers under realistic conditions.

Book your guide right here.

Rental Centre

You can buy or rent sports equipment and clothing in the following shops.

5 reasons why to freeride in Engelberg

When the best freeride areas in the Alps or even worldwide are listed, Engelberg is right at the top. Why should you definitely come here for freeriding this winter?

Geographical characteristics

Engelberg has its own microclimate, so to speak. The valley has a good angle and creates a damming effect. With westerly and north-westerly currents, the two most frequent wind directions in Switzerland, a large amount of snow often falls!

Perfect possibilities to get started

When freeriding on the really big hillsides and not shed a single drop of sweat on the way up? In Engelberg the "Big 5" offer you exactly this comfort. Immerse yourself in the powder directly from the lift - unbelievable but true!

All-Weather Terrain

The freeride area in Engelberg stretches from 1000 to 3000 m above sea level. Even days after the last snowfall, top conditions can still be found at higher altitudes. In addition, there are also various small, fine bad weather runs, so that you are sure to get your money's worth!

Relaxed freeride community

In Engelberg, a colourful freeride crowd from all over the world cavorts in winter. The experiences of the day are exchanged over a drink in one of the hip bars and pubs, new friendships are made and plans for the next day are made.

Short journey

In one hour's drive from Zurich to Engelberg and only 30 minutes later you are on Mount TITLIS, ready for the first run of the day. If you come by plane, you can make the first tracks in the snow with a morning flight before lunch.

Freeride Stories

In a freeride area like Engelberg there is a lot to tell about the shared passion, to talk about legendary runs or to talk about the pioneers of freeriding. Let yourself be carried away by exciting stories and thrilling videos!

RED BULL SEASON PASS

Engelberg is not known for its party-scene at all. But anyone who has ever read a ski magazine undoubtedly laid eyes on stunning pictures from Engelberg, whether they realize it or not. It is the go-to for some of the best ski photographers in Europe, and the hub for Scandinavians who wants nothing more than to go to bed early, just so that they can go ski even earlier. Tag along as we'll follow professional photographer Oskar Enander with crew to hunt down good pow for landing the next cover. Or as they call it: Work.

Dani Friedli

Dani Friedli has been the owner of the Okay-Shop for over 20 years. As a freerider from the very beginning, he contributed significantly to the successful positioning of the Engelberg freeride area. When you enter his shop, you immediately feel his passion and know that you and your skis are in good hands here.

As a freerider you must know Snowflake, an Engelberg original. Let yourself be carried away by him and let him show you the joys and wonders of nature through his eyes. You may soon meet him on one of your next runs - the eccentric Swiss skier with his philosophy of life, which is as beautiful and unique as his namesake.

Christoph Bissig and his mountain

Christoph, head of slope & rescue departement at TITLIS, lives his passion like no other. In the film about his everyday life on the mountain, Henrik Andersson has captured the beauty and fascination of his profession in a fantastic way. Despite some tough and difficult moments, you can feel the enthusiasm for his mountain throughout the film.

• Via ferrata / climbing
• Trailrunning
• Recharge batteries
• Little Patagonia
• Holiday Tips
• More Summer activities

Bookable experiences

Group experiences, hiking highlights.

• Ridge hike Stanserhorn-Engelberg
• Alpine cheese trail
• Buiräbähnli Safari
• 4-Lakes Trail
• Walenpfad trail

All year around

• TITLIS Highlights
• Culture & Traditions
• Sportingpark
• Benedictine Monastery
• Horse-drawn carriage rides
• Bad weather program
• Lake Lucerne Region
• All year activities
• Hiking & Snowshoe Tours

Ski Tours & Freeride

• Ski & Snowboard
• Cross-Country Skiing
• All Winter activities

Packages & Deals

All lodging

• Group Accommodation
• Youth Hostel "Berghaus"
• Apartments on request
• Mountain Lodges
• Private Rooms
• Bed & Breakfast

• "Buiräbähnli" Cable ways

Prices & Tickets

• Prices Winter
• Prices Summer
• Webshop Destinations Abos
• Buy Skitickets
• Webshop Titlis Tickets
• Webshop Brunni-Tickets
• Further passes/tickets

Exhibitions

ÖKK BIKE REVOLUTION

FOOD UNPLUGGED

Seminar Hotels

All from one source

Special Locations

Social Program

Teambuilding

Tourist Info

Sustainability

Location & Arrival

Free WiFi access in Engelberg

Vouchers for engelberg, village & infrastructure, press & media, medical emergency, engelberger blog.

Summer Treats Magazine

Engelberg magazine

• Route Finder
• Route Planner
• Travel Guide
• Places to visit
• Eat & drink
• Accommodation
• Ski resorts
• Current Conditions
• Avalanche Report
• Collections
• Travel Stories
• Publications

Titlis Rundtour - The alpine classic

hi guys. what length rope is needed for Titlis rundtour ...

Author’s recommendation

Safe snow fun in powder snow at the Snow & Safety Days.

Track types

Safety information.

Safety tips for off-piste skiing

• Please note that you are travelling at your own risk.
• A ski tour must be carefully planned.
• Appropriate equipment (avalanche transceiver, probe, shovel, airbag) and clothing are essential safety factors.
• The local ski and mountain guides will take you safely to your destination and back home.
• Emergency call REGA telephone number 1414

Tips and hints

Safety Tips

Avalanche courses

Freeride Info

Mountain guide office

Destination

Turn-by-turn directions, public transport, coordinates, book recommendations for this region:.

The equipment can be rented in the sports shops of Engelberg.

Similar routes nearby

• Fünffingerstöck (2994m)
• Sustlihütte-Grassen-Engelberg

Questions and answers

Ratings and reviews.

Help others by being the first to add a review

Photos from others

Avalanche conditions, weather at the route's trailhead.

• Show images Hide images

Excursions and leisure tips for the region

• PHILANTHROPY
• TRAVEL INSURANCE
• TESTIMONIALS
• WHY CHOOSE LGA?
• TRIP INQUIRY

URNER HUT TOUR - THE SKIERS HAUTE ROUTE

The Urner High Route- this is the Ultimate Haute Route ski tour for the skier who likes big, long runs. Every day the group will be rewarded with ski descents that are 3,000+ vertical feet or more. A true ski tour with lots of terrain and vertical to be skied! With huge snowfalls, a guaranteed base, and hundreds of backcountry possibilities, this is a true mecca for people that like to explore backcountry hut tours. The surrounding backcountry area has a lifetime of possibilities to explore.

What makes this different than a regular hut tour?   

• Transfers: All your transfers are covered. Such as: roundtrip airport, trains & luggage transfers.
• Ski Andermatt: One resort day to get your touring legs ready as it’s one of of the best freeride and backcountry resorts in Switzerland.
• Andermatt Lodging: 2 nights lodging in Andermatt to adjust to Swiss mountain living and enjoy a day at the SkiArena Andermatt.
• Engelberg Lodging: 1 night lodging at the end of the trip to celebrate in Engelberg after a week of ski touring through the Swiss Alps.
• Meals: All breakfast & dinners are included for the entire trip! 7 Breakfasts & 7 Dinners  (Arrival Half-board dinner, Welcome Dinner in Andermatt & Farewell Celebration dinner in Engelberg, 4 dinners in Swiss Mountain Huts).

Location: Andermatt to Engelberg, Switzerland

Duration:   8 Days | 7 Nights | 6 Ski Days

Skill Level:   Strong Intermediate-Expert

Guide to Client Ratio: 4 to 1

Price:  $3195 per person (min. 4 people)

Trip Dates: TBD…

• WHAT'S INCLUDED
• THE EXPERIENCE

SAMPLE ITINERARY

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Lift Tickets: 1 Day Ticket to Andermatt Ski Arena + 5 Days of Ski Touring through Central Switzerland Guiding: Professional Local Swiss UIAGM/IFMGA Guides for 6 Days Coaching: Ski Technique & Backcountry Skills Sessions with Professional Skiers and Guides Transportation:  Transportation via Scenic Train from Zurich Airport to Andermatt, Andermatt to Realp, Engelberg to Zurich Airport Lodging: 2 Nights in Andermatt, 1 Night in Engelberg, 4 Nights Lodging in Swiss Alpine Club Huts while ski touring Meals:  All breakfast & dinners are included for the entire trip! 7 Breakfasts & 7 Dinners  (Arrival Half-board dinner, Welcome Dinner in Andermatt & Farewell Celebration dinner in Engelberg, 4 dinners in Swiss Mountain Huts). LGA Welcome Gift Bag

OPTIONAL ADD-ONS FOR THE WEEK: *Scott Scrapper Skis with Marker Alpine Touring Bindings and Skins *Scott E1 Patrol Airbags, Avalanche Beacon, Shovel and Probe

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

• Lunches: Guests will be able to have lunch at local villages and mountain huts through the week. Each guest should have snacks, water and other items with them every day during the tour
• Alcoholic beverages
• Gratuities for Guides
• Travel & Trip Insurance: We require trip insurance for all trips abroad.  We recommend World Nomads as they are the ultimate in travel protection and global emergencies and evacuations.
• Gear: Skis, Snowboards, Backpack, Avalanche beacon, Probe, Shovel, Skins, and Helmet. If you have your own equipment please bring it. Avalanche safety gear is required on all of our tours and is available to rent for the duration of the trip.

THE RIDING EXPERIENCE

Skiing and touring over 6 days with LGA’s local IFMGA guides into the heart of the central Swiss Alps and across multiple valleys. The tour starts in the historic town of Andermatt and finishes in Engelberg allowing guests to ski two incredible resorts along the way. Explore Andermatt Ski Arena and the vast terrain of the Uri Canton with endless off-piste options. With over 5,000′ feet of vertical from the top of Gemsstock, our groups will have an unforgettable first day in the Alps.  Andermatt gets some of the most snow in Switzerland as it sits in a perfect location for storms and is typically colder than other resorts.  Andermatt Ski Arena is one of the most snow sure resorts in Europe. 

Average descents equal 2,500-5,000 feet through the high alpine of the Swiss Alps. Daily ascents can range from 2,000 to 3,000 feet as we ski tour our way through central Switzerland. Ski touring between Andermatt & Engelberg will take the group through some steep, rugged and magnificent terrain surrounded by glaciers. During the ski tour, we will have incredible descents, beautiful ascents through the Swiss mountains and the option for numerous summit options if conditions and energy permit. We will finish our last day riding Engelberg- The freeride mecca of Switzerland with some of the biggest descents in the Alps. Over 6,000 vertical from the top of Mt. Titlis, a wide range of terrain options and some of the best snow in Switzerland. An area every skier should visit at least once.

THE CULINARY EXPERIENCE

Every morning you will be treated with healthy Swiss breakfasts at the hotel or huts before we start our day. All dinners are included for the trip. We host 3 group dinners (Arrival Day, Welcome & Farewell) so everyone gets to sample the local favorites. Dinners will be provided nightly by the Swiss huts to make it easy for you to kick back and relax after a great day of skiing. Swiss meals are known for their quality & local ingredients at each region we visit. A great way to experience the unique flavors of the culture. The group will have lunches along the way as we ski through the day. A great way to take in the 360′ Swiss Mountain views while grabbing a snack. 

THE LODGING EXPERIENCE

In Andermatt, we will be staying 2 nights at a classic Swiss hotel that has hosted skiers for decades. Located in the center of town and close to the lifts, its a prime spot for starting any ski trip. Along the tour, the group will be staying in traditional Swiss Mountain huts and sharing the group rooms. A classic touring experience in the Alps. Our last night in Engelberg we will be staying at a beautiful hotel situated in the center of town overlooking the Engelberg Valley with stunning views of the Swiss Alps.  The hotel features a full restaurant and bar, ski room with heated boot dryers and free wireless internet. After a long day skiing Engelberg and exploring this vast area, enjoy access to the Wellness Center after a great week of skiing.

Day 1 – Arrival Day

Fly into Zurich International Airport (ZRH) by 1pm where the group will be there to transport you. In some cases you may need to plan your arrival the day before. There are many hotels near the airport offering shuttle service so it is easy to meet the group back at the airport by 1pm. The LGA team is happy to assist you with booking a hotel room before or after your trip. If you would like to book a hotel room yourself, we suggest using Booking.com to find a nearby hotel.

Le Grand Adventure Tours welcomes you to Switzerland! Upon landing at Zurich International Airport (ZRH) you will travel via scenic Swiss train to your hotel in Andermatt. Inspiring views along the way of the Swiss Alps and other ski resorts await you. The group will check in at the hotel in the afternoon around 3:00pm. At our hotel in Andermatt, the group will assemble the gear for the week and get ready for the next day of skiing the resort area. Enjoy our Half-board dinner at the hotel for an easy first night to get some rest. Great way to get to know the other group members and talk about some skiing! 

If rentals are needed, we can arrange snow equipment for the week through our partnership with Scott Sports. We will have a selection of powder skis with touring bindings to choose from. There will also be the brand new Scott E-1 Patrol Backpack and avalanche kits available for rent for guests during the trips. Both items can be rented for the duration of your trip to save you time and money. If you wish to rent ski/snowboard equipment please let us know so that we can coordinate your rental.

Day 2  – Preparation day in Andermatt (4,700 to 9,721 feet 5,000 vertical feet of skiing!)

Today we will ski the resort and do a short ski tour in the area if weather permits. A perfect time to check everyone’s equipment and prepare for the week ahead. Any last minute items can be purchased in town at one of the ski shops. Today gives the LGA Guide Team a chance to get to know everyone and have some fun skiing! Andermatt has an extensive amount of terrain that offers a chance to ski open bowls, a 5,000 vertical foot drop from the top, couloirs and hopefully lots of powder. In the afternoon we can prepare our packs and food for the tour this week. Enjoy our Welcome Group Dinner at one of our favorite places in town and relax at the hotel before the real fun starts!

Day 3  – Realp (1,540m/5,050 feet) – Albert Heim Hütte (2,543m/8,350 feet)

The first day of the tour begins with a train ride from Andermatt to the town of Realp, located up valley from Andermatt. One of the many gateways into the surrounding high peaks of the Swiss Alps. Realp dates back to 1799 when the area was used for trading and smuggling goods between Italy and Switzerland as it sits at the bottom of Furkapass. From here we will start working our way up the beautiful trail to the Albert Heim Hut. If we have the strength, we can continue to go towards Galenstock and get a nice ride down again. Or we can just sit on the terrace and enjoy the view for the rest of the day.

Day 4  – Albert Heim Hütte (2,543m/8,350 feet) – Chelenalphütte (2,350m/7,700 feet)

Waking up in a Swiss Alpine hut is a special thing. Take your time to go outside, admire the views and watch the stars. The days will start early so we can optimize our time during each tour. Breakfast is served in the dining area of the huts. There will be Half Board accommodations on all nights during the hut tour so everyone gets a hearty meal after each day. We begin the day with a small downhill ski to the start of the first ascent for the day. We walk about 1600+/- vertical feet until we get to Winterlücke. From here we ski down directly against the Göcheneralpsee. 3300+/- glorious vertical feet of skiing! If weather and conditions allow we have the option to take the route via Lochberg. We continue into Chelenalphutte against the hut, about 1600+/- vertical feet.

Day 5  – Chelenaalphütte (2,350m/7,700 feet) – Steingletcher (1,865m/6,120 feet)

We start the day directly with the skins on and heading towards the Sustenlimi about 2100 vertical feet of altitude gain. Here we can choose whether we want to continue moving towards the top of Sustenhorn that lies at 11,500 feet, or ski down directly through Steingletcher to the night’s accommodation at the bottom of the valley. 5500+/- fabulous vertical feet from the top, welcome to the Swiss Alps!

Day 6  – Steingletcher (1865m/6,120 feet) – Süstlihütte (2,257m/7,400 feet)

Today we travel towards the Fünffingerstock which passes through the Obertaljoch pass (2,835m/9,300 feet). From here we have multiple choices down to Sustlibach depending on weather and conditions. A scenic descent, stunning views of central Switzerland and a classic alpine tour! The last bit to the hut will require the group to put the skins back on for a short approach to the hut. Once we are at the hut, we will make sure to enjoy the last night in the hut and the inspiring mountains around us.

Day 7  – Süstlihütte (2,257m/7,400 feet) – Engelberg (1000m/3,280 feet)

The last day in the Swiss Huts but also a day with a big descent! The day begins with the group moving uphill towards the Grassengrat / Stössensattel – a climb of about 2,000 feet. Once on the top enjoy the views of central Switzerland and the surrounding peaks as it’s all downhill from here! This could very well be the best ski descent of the week. We have an astounding 5,900 foot downhill run to cap off a sensational week of ski touring in the Swiss Alps. If time/ weather permits the group can go by the Grassen bivouac located just below the overwhelming southeast wall of the Titlis. A remarkable view! Once we are down in the valley we will take either the local bus or taxi back to Engelberg. Time to enjoy a cold beverage at the Yucatan of the Ski Lodge Engelberg to celebrate a great week of ski touring.

Day 8  – Departure Day

It’s been an amazing week of skiing Andermatt, the Swiss Alpine huts, and the angel- Engelberg. Lots of great skiing, Swiss hospitality and a section of the Alps that has some of the best skiing in the world . We will have breakfast together in the morning before we head out to Zurich airport. Please make sure to book your departure flights after 1:00pm. Thank you for a great week! (If you want to stay after the trip and get a few extra days, let us know and we can help you book extra nights of lodging, lift tickets, and guiding.)

NOTE: This itinerary is an example. The tour may be altered to adjust for weather and conditions. Our guides will plan the tour around the conditions to make sure you have the best trip possible.

Check out our General FAQs section. Here you will find answers to your general questions.

What is the Best Way to Get There?

Fly into Zurich International Airport (ZRH) by 1pm where the group will be there to transport you. In some cases you may need to plan your arrival the day before. There are many hotels near the airport offering shuttle service so it is easy to meet the group back at the airport by 1pm. We suggest using Booking.com to find a nearby hotel.

When Should I Make My Travel Arrangements?

Please wait until you receive confirmation from Le Grand Adventure Tours before making any travel arrangements. Our team is happy to assist you with any travel needs.

Hotels Before & After Your Trip

There are a lot of great hotels in the Zurich and the surrounding areas close to the airport or in city center. If you plan to arrive early, a day before the trip start, or if you plan to stay for an extra night before you leave. We suggest using online resources like  Booking.com  to check availability. We are always happy to help and offer recommendations for all of our guests.

Can I Reserve My Trip With a Deposit?

Yes, you can reserve your trip with a Deposit for all Multi-Day Tours lasting twenty-four hours or longer. If you seek to reserve a spot on the Tour more than 90 days prior to the Date of Departure. The Deposit amount is twenty percent (20%) of the Tour Price. For Private Group Tours the Deposit amount is fifty percent (50%) of the Tour Price. Within 89 days or less prior to the date of departure, the full amount is due at time of booking.

When is The Final Payment For This Tours Due?

Final payment is due no later than 90 days prior to departure, or 7 days from booking confirmation if booking is within 90 days.

What Is Your Cancellation Policy?

• 90 days or more prior to Departure: LGA will retain the deposit as an “Adventure Deposit” for a future trip. Full refund will be given.
• 89-60 days prior to Departure: LGA will retain 50% of the total Tour Price and the deposit will be held as an Adventure Deposit for a future trip.
• 59 days or less prior to Departure: LGA will retain 100% of the total Tour Price.Le Grand Adventure Tours cannot be held responsible for snow and/or weather conditions. Trips cannot be cancelled or amended on the basis of snow and weather conditions.

What Is Your Refund Policy?

No refunds, reimbursements or discounts will be granted if, for any reason, Client misses the Tour, fails to join the Tour, leaves the Tour, is dismissed from the Tour, or cannot fully participate in the Tour. Any Refunds will be at the discretion of Le Grand Adventure Tours if you are involuntarily forced to leave a tour for any reason.

What is The Group Size?

Small group sizes that don’t exceed 8 guests.

Do We Need to Tip Our Guides?

Gratuities are not included. Tips are accepted at your discretion based on the overall trip experience provided by our team.

Do I Need Trip Insurance?

Trip Insurance is Not Included: We require trip insurance for all trips abroad. Protecting your trip & safety is our priority! We recommend World Nomads as they are the ultimate in travel protection and global emergencies and evacuations.

What Type of Skis To Bring?

A ski with roughly a 100mm to 110mm is the best option. If you want to bring a wider pair of skis please feel free or we can rent these if needed.

Do I Need Ski Touring Equipment?

Yes, as this is a backcountry touring trip. If you have a pair of touring bindings (Dynafit, Plum, Marker, Salomon, etc) and are comfortable skiing a wide variety of terrain on them, please feel free to bring them. We also have  Alpine Touring & AT Touring skis from Scott during the trip to rent for the duration of the trip. Splitboarders are welcome!

Do I Need Backcountry Safety Gear?

Avalanche safety gear is required on all of our tours. If you have your own equipment please bring it. We have  Scott E1 Airbags, Avalanche Beacon, Shovel and Probe  available to rent for the duration of the trip. (Option available to add-on at checkout. If you wish to add later please feel free to contact us.)

Ski & Gear Rentals

If you wish to rent ski/snowboard equipment please let us know so that we can coordinate your rental. Please advise the LGA Team before the trip if you will need gear.

What Should I Bring With Me?

Ski/Snowboard Gear: Skis/Snowboard, boots, poles Goggles Helmet – stay safe on the slopes!!

Misc/Recommended: Backpack Avalanche Transceiver Shovel/Probe Touring Gear and Skins Packable Puffy Climbing Harness (that fits over ski pants) (We can assist with some gear, please feel free to contact us)

Après Clothing: You will be in the Alps for a week so please bring proper clothing for when you’re not on the slopes.

Travel Requirements: Current Passport Credit card, cash and/or traveler’s checks ID or driver’s license Medical insurance cards Prescriptions or other medications Important phone numbers Proof of Travelers Insurance

What Is The Weather Going To Be Like?

For the most accurate weather please check the Andermatt Weather Online a few days before your trip. We will be in the mountains so bring clothes that will keep you warm in a wide variety of conditions. We will guarantee you get the most out of your ski holiday as we have a wide range of activities that we can add into the trip incase there are down days due to snow storms or weather.

How Long Does It Take to Fly to Switzerland?

Flight time from the West Coast of the United States to Zurich is approximately 11.5 hours if you book a non-stop flight. From the East Coast the flight time is approximately 8 hours.

Can I Use My Credit Card in Switzerland?

Credit cards are widely accepted, but Amex is not always accepted. Better stick with Visa. You will need some cash – but just for casual expenses. Most things can be paid for by credit card. The currency is CHF/Swiss Franc. EUR is not the currency of Switzerland (even if it is sometimes accepted by some merchants at a bad exchange rate). It never makes sense to carry too much cash on you – anywhere. Withdrawing cash from your checking account using your US cash/debit card is usually much cheaper than converting dollar bills at an exchange desk and you will get the BEST Exchange rate. Many credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee around 3-5%. This may be the time to get yourself a fun new rewards travel credit card that comes with “No Foreign Transaction Fees.” We never leave home without it.

Which Languages are Spoken in Switzerland?

The four national languages of Switzerland are German, French, Italian and Romansh. In the Davos & St. Moritz area they speak German or a Swiss-German dialect. You will find English is widely spoke all over Switzerland. It is still great to learn a few of the day to day vocabulary to be polite.

Is It Safe to Travel to Switzerland?

Switzerland is very safe. Always take regular precautions whenever abroad to save yourself from any potential headaches that could interfere with your travels.

I Heard Switzerland is Expensive, How Expensive is it?

With its plethora of international banks, the country is a center for global wealth. This means prices are high, but people are paid quite well. Supermarket sell pre-made meals for between 5-9 CHF. Bars and cafés are the cheapest food option, cost about 9-15 CHF for a lunch special. Restaurants with table service are around 20 CHF for lunch and 40 CHF for dinner (starter, main, and drink) to start. You’ll typically find pizzas for around 20 CHF in a restaurant. If you’re dining out (but still trying to stick to a budget), you’ll spend an average of 25-45 CHF a day on food.

URNER HUT TOUR  GALLERY

Andermatt, Switzerland

Engelberg, switzerland, happy customers., testimonials, best guides ever, the holy grail…, simply the best, the japan trip with le grand adventure tours was absolutely amazing and blew us away, i will be using them again, imagequest japan trip was out of this world., the pictures and videos do not do it justice., second year in a row working with jeff, deepest snow of my life, the best trip i have ever been on..

St. Anton & Ischgl Austria Ski Tour

Furano-Otaru Japan Powder Explorer Ski Tour 10 Day

Tohoku-Aomori-Otaru, Japan Powder Ski Tour 10 Day

Furano-Iwanai Japan Ski Tour 10 Day

• Our Certifications
• Join our Email List
• Latest News from NMS
• Basic AT Ski Course (1-day)
• Intermed. AT Ski Course (1-day)
• Women's Backcountry Ski Camp
• Haute Route Verbier Skiing
• Berner Oberland - Switzerland
• Ortler Circuit Ski Tour - Italy
• Otztal Ski Tour - Austria
• Silvretta Ski Tour - Austria
• Gran Paradiso Ski Tour - Italy
• Urner Haute Route - Switzerland
• AIARE Level 1
• AIARE Avalanche Rescue Course
• AIARE Level 2
• Stevens Pass Backcountry
• Leavenworth Backcountry
• Mt. Adams Ski Descent
• Forbidden Tour
• Chiwaukum Ski Traverse
• Mt. Baker Ski & Snowboard Descent
• Spearhead Traverse
• Japan Ski Tours
• Mt. Adams Ski & Snowboard Descent
• 1-day Crevasse Rescue Course
• Crevasse Rescue & Glacier Travel
• Baker Summit Course
• 5-Day Mountaineering Course
• Denali Prep Course
• Youth Mountaineering Course
• Mt. Adams Climb
• Easton Glacier Climb
• Coleman-Deming Route
• North Ridge Route
• Coleman Headwall Route
• Glacier Peak Climb
• Mt. Rainier Climb
• Mt. Shuksan Climb
• Forbidden Peak Climb
• Sahale Peak Climb
• Sharkfin Tower Climb
• Eldorado Peak Climb
• Mt. Torment Climb
• Mt. Buckner Climb
• Mount Fury Climb
• Dragontail Peak Climb
• Ingalls Peak Climb
• Mt. Daniel Climb
• Snow Creek Wall Climbs
• Mt. Stuart North Ridge Climb
• Colchuck Peak Climb
• Ruth Gorge Seminar
• Denali West Buttress Climb
• Ladakh Trek
• Sikkim Trek - Kanchenjunga
• Mont Blanc Climb
• Matterhorn Climb
• Zermatt 4000ers - Monte Rosa
• Mount Vinson Expedition
• San Juan Sailing and Sea Kayaking Adventure
• Intro to Outdoor Rock Climbing
• Intro to Lead Climbing Course
• Private or Custom Rock Climbing
• Multi-pitch Rock Climbing Course
• Rock Climbing Anchors Clinic
• Group Rock Climbing Program
• Improvised Rock Rescue Course
• Crack Climbing Technique
• Sport Climbing Techniques
• Women's Rock Programs
• Joshua Tree Women's Seminar
• Red Rocks Women's Seminar
• Red Rocks Climbing Programs
• Seattle Rock Climbing Courses
• Summer Meltdown Darrington
• AMGA SPI Courses & Exam
• Leavenworth Women's Rock
• Joshua Tree Women's Rock
• Red Rocks Women's Rock
• Ouray Ice Climbing
• Registration
• Make a Payment
• Gift Certificates
• Frequently Asked Questions
• AMGA and IFMGA
• Travel Cancellation Insurance
• Client Testimonials
• 2021 Set Date Programs
• Guide's Gear Sale
• Employment Opportunities
• Covid Policies and Protocols

Urner Haute Route Ski Tour  

• Custom Dates Available for 4+

Expedition PDFs  

Urner Haute Route Itinerary  

Urner haute route ski tour qualifications  , ski skills assessment  , advanced ski skills  .

• Able to ski fall line in most snow conditions (powder to wind affected snow).
• Able to make parallel or stem-christie turns on 35° groomed or firm snow.
• Able to side-slip on firm slopes up to 40°.
• Able to ski moguls in soft snow.
• Able to do kick turns facing in or facing out on 30° slopes.
• Able to skate on level terrain.
• Able to ski fall-line in tight radius turns in good conditions.
• Able to ski black diamond runs at ski areas efficiently and in most snow conditions.

Physical Condition Evaluation for Skiing  

How do the huts work  , luggage  , insurance considerations  , travel insurance  , rescue insurance  , getting to andermatt  .

Northwest Mountain School owners John Race & Olivia Cussen are AMGA Certified Rock, Alpine, and Ski Mountaineering Guides, as well as IFMGA Licensed Guides.

Northwest Mountain School

Engelberg Titlis | Ski Resort Review

From the Engelberg piste map to the best ski hire and après ski bars, here is the lowdown on skiing in this fantastic Swiss ski resort.

With the majority of Switzerland's internationally famous resorts in the country's far west or south-eastern corners, ancient Engelberg, in the central canton of Obwalden, stands out. The first hotels appeared here in the 1850s and it became a ski resort not long after, but the village had been dominated for many centuries before that by the impressive Benedictine monastery, established in the early 12th Century. It's still operational today, with about 20 monks in residence.

The people of Obwalden have always had a reputation for their independent spirit, reflected in the fact that the original Swiss Confederacy – an alliance of small states determined to remain independent from their more powerful neighbours – was established near here at the end of the 13th Century. Although it's very much a village, with a population of around 4,000, Engelberg's long-standing status as a holiday resort means that the architecture is of the grand Swiss model, giving the feel of a small town. The spectacular mountains rising up to 2,000 metres above the buildings, create one hell of a backdrop. 

As a ski resort, Engelberg has always been at the cutting edge – the first electric rail line in Switzerland was installed here – and the best example in the modern era is the already legendary rotating 'Rotair' cable car/tram, which ascends to 3,020 metres to offer access to  the Titlis glacier. At the top station there is a tunnel through the ice, with a frozen bar. The resort is nice an accessible, with its own train station, and with Zurich Airport just an hour and a half away (or around two hours on the train) it's ideal for shorter breaks.

It's also got a reputation as something of an off piste paradise, and the 'Big 5' off piste ski runs (see below) should be on every expert skiers' bucket list. 

Engelberg - Ski Map & Pistes:

Engelberg's ski area is large, if not enormous, but its 82km (51 miles) of trails span a massive, 2,000 metre vertical drop. The ski area is served by a network of rapid, modern ski lifts (of which the Rotair is just the most famous example). The longest of the pistes from the Titlis glacier back down to the resort is a whopping 12km (8 miles ) long. 

To reach the main Engelberg ski area from the villages, take the Gerschnialp gondola and then the Trübsee cable car . The base station is half a mile (800 metres) from the village centre so it's best to take the ski bus if you don't have your own transport. If you have rented a car, however, there's a large carpark near the gondola. 

Most of the runs that make up Engelberg's resort area are designed for intermediate skiers, but there are plenty beginner areas dotted around the mountains too. Although the different sections of the ski area are linked by ski lifts, each one tends to operate as its own, separate cluster – a series of ski lifts converging on a single meeting point – rather than the whole ski resort operating as a fully-interwoven network of trails. 

Skiing in each of the areas has advantages and disadvantages. The Brunni area, for example is usually best for beginners. Its base station cable car, which leaves from the other side of Engelberg village to the Gerschnialp, serves lower altitude and mostly gentler slopes. There is a popular children's snow play area here too. 

The main snowboarding attractions are on the Jochpass where a terrain park is established when the conditions are right – plus, of course, the off piste (see below). Snowboarders also head for the glacier, especially in the spring and autumn 'summer skiing season' when a fun park is created on the Titlis Glacier.

If you're into cross country skiing, Engelberg's extensive network of marked cross country trails will tickle your fancy. And if you just want to watch something spectacular, try to make sure your holiday in Engelberg coincides with the Ski Jumping World Cup, which takes place on the 120 metre Titlis jumping hill in late December. It's the largest ski jumping hill in Switzerland, and the only Swiss stop on the FIS World Cup tour.

Engelberg - Off-Piste, Backcountry & Ski Touring:

Engelberg's reputation as an off piste paradise is well deserved.  The 2,000m vertical drop makes the Engelberg ski area particularly well suited to all manner of off piste shenanigans should the snow conditions play ball. There's a huge amount of variety to the terrain, from high alpine couloirs and cliffs, to tree runs that are perfect when there's fresh snow falling. All round, this is a great place for expert skiers. 

Much of the Titlis ski area is north facing, and the lifts here run up to above 3,000m, so there's plenty of decent off piste lines to be had. Chief among these are the so-called 'Big 5,' all of which can be accessed from the lifts with no ski touring or boot packing required. 

The Galtiberg, which runs from Mt. Titlis to Engelberg via the Galtiberggletscher is one of the longest freeride runs in the Alps. The Laub, slightly lower down, is also a challenging descent, while Steinberg offers a variety of different line options. The final two, known as the Sulz and Steintäli, which drop from either side of the Jochstock lift, are also must-rides. Check out the Engelberg ski resort tourism website for more details, and to download GPX routes of the Big Five .

Check the snow reports and avalanche forecasts before heading off on any of these off piste itineraries, Make sure you have your beeper, shovel, probe and, ideally, an avalanche backpack with you, and don't set off if you're at all unsure about snow conditions and directions.  As everywhere in the Alps, it's well worth hiring a guide from Engelberg Mountain Guides   – not only will they help keep you safe, they'll make your off piste day more enjoyable by planning it out and taking you to where the best snow conditions are. 

Engelberg - Restaurants, Bars & The Town:

Like all modern Swiss ski resorts Engelberg offers plenty of off-slope activities, and a range of winter sports that aren't alpine skiing or snowboarding - including an excellent network of winter walking trails which are perfect for snowshoeing. 

Most of the 55 or so restaurants around Engelberg are hotel based and offer traditional Swiss fare cooked to a very high standard. The mountain huts also offer a wide range of top class dining opportunities. The Fürenalp mountain restaurant is one of our favourites and a great place for sampling local specialities.

Typical of many Swiss ski resorts, Engelberg isn't the most lively on the après ski front, but it's better than some. The Old Monk Bar in the Hotel Central does decent cocktails and the Core Irish bar serves Guinness and puts on live music without laying on the tacky faux-Hibernian vibe too thick. The bar at the Ski Lodge Engelberg is also popular, and on busy weeks, there's always a good party going on at the Yucatan . If it's late night entertainment you're after, the Gletscherspalte disco is a perennial favourite – just don't expect the most cutting edge music.

Engelberg has a range of hotel options to suit a wide variety of budgets including luxury hotels, ski in ski out accommodation near various of the lifts. This is Switzerland though, so none of it sits right at the bottom of the budget range. 

While it might not be party central for après ski, Engelberg ski resort is great for children, and traffic is not a danger thanks to Engelberg's location at the head of the valley. Apart from the swimming and ice skating kids can enjoy the toboggan run and of course the revolving cable car! Daycare for children begins at age two in the village kindergarten, with baby sitters available to look after younger kids (contact the tourist office for details). The Ski Kindergartens offered by the ski schools are available for booking from half a day to five days, with lunchtime supervision if required. 

Engelberg - Ski Hire:

Renting ski boots and skis in Engelberg is easy, with plenty of ski hire shops clustered in the village and around the lifts at the base of the ski area. The Intersport-owned Titlis Rent at the base of the main gondola, or the Intersport Achermann near the Brunni-Bahnen are good places to start. More ski shops offering ski hire can be found near the centre of the village, including the excellent QuattroSport .

Engelberg - Ski School:

There are plenty of good options for ski schools in Engelberg, from the Schweizer Skischule Engelberg near the centre of the resort, to more boutique ski school operations like Prime Engelberg . Active Snow Team also offer ski and snowboard lessons in Engelberg, with private ski lessons particularly popular. 

Tourism and Ski Area

// read next //.

Mürren | Ski Resort Review

Champéry | Ski Resort Review

Saas-Fee/Saastal | Ski Resort Review

Nendaz | Ski Resort Review

Aletsch Arena | Ski Resort Review

// trending //.

The Best Ski Resorts in Austria

The Best Ski Resorts In The Pyrenees

The Best Ski Resorts in France

Swiss Ski Resorts | The Best Places to go Skiing in Switzerland

The Best Ski Jackets 2023-24

Best Freeride Skis 2023-2024

The Best Short Transfer Ski Resorts in Europe

Best Ski Socks 2023-2024

• Work & Careers
• Life & Arts

Switzerland’s wildest ski tour

• Switzerland’s wildest ski tour on x (opens in a new window)
• Switzerland’s wildest ski tour on facebook (opens in a new window)
• Switzerland’s wildest ski tour on linkedin (opens in a new window)
• Switzerland’s wildest ski tour on whatsapp (opens in a new window)

Tom Robbins

Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

We peered over the top of a perfect-looking slope — sparkling, never-skied powder snow, rolling over the shoulder of the mountain, then dropping out of sight. Dan Loutrel, my guide, stamped his skis in the snow, then dug in his poles, trying to discern any weak layers that, combined with our weight, might trigger an avalanche. He moved forwards and back, obviously weighing up a decision on whether we should go ahead and ski the slope, or retreat.

The situation was, as they say in the mountaineering world, “consequential”. He and I were alone, on a glacier, on the flank of 3,000-metre Swiss peak called the Wendenhorn. Conditions were not ideal: in the previous week, 51 people had been caught in avalanches in Switzerland; six had died.

The minutes ticked past in silence — I was anxious not to say anything that might disturb or influence Dan’s thought process — but the siren call of the slope was loud in our ears. He was clearly conflicted. Below were 500 metres of powder that, if it stayed stuck to the mountain, would provide a descent we’d remember for years. If it did slide, a crack appearing in the snow and a vast slab accelerating downwards, “Well, your angels would be working triple time,” said Dan. “And they still wouldn’t save you.”

It was the final day of a week-long adventure, a haute route through the Alps. For most anglophone skiers, that phrase means the journey from Chamonix to Zermatt, a summer itinerary devised by members of Britain’s Alpine Club in 1861, then first skied in January 1903. Now undertaken by thousands each season, it offers great views of the Alps’ most famous peaks, Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn.

But the “Chamonix-Zermatt” can feel a bit like a procession and, though it’s rarely mentioned, the skiing can be a little mundane — much of the route is made up of long, fairly level traverses.

I had come to try one of the many less-celebrated alternatives, the Urner Haute Route, a journey between the off-piste meccas of Andermatt and Engelberg in the Uri Alps of central Switzerland. It has become known as “the skier’s haute route” because it includes a succession of steep north-facing descents, is far less frequently tackled, and passes through some of the Alps’ wildest terrain. From Andermatt to Engelberg, we didn’t see another skier.

I arrived in late March, at the end of one of the warmest, driest winters on record, to find huge banks of new snow all around. A big late-season storm had just passed through — good for our prospects of powder descents but, given the meagre weak layers below, a classic recipe for avalanches. Dan was already having to rethink the itinerary, to divert us on to gentler slopes until the new snow had settled.

We met at Andermatt station, sending our suitcases unaccompanied to Engelberg, leaving us with relatively light rucksacks. We were a group of five: a honeymooning couple from the US, a father and son from Finland and me, plus two guides, Dan and a Swiss colleague, Severin (Sevi) Karrer. You don’t need to be an extreme skier to take on the Urner, but you do need to be confident off piste, relatively fit and have some touring experience.

Andermatt sits on a high plateau at the meeting point of three key Alpine passes, a strategic position controlled from the late 19th century by a major army garrison. Arriving in 1912, DH Lawrence found “the whole place was so terribly raw” that he couldn’t bear to stay the night. “Everywhere were soldiers moving about the livid, desolate waste of this upper world . . . Darkness was coming on; the straggling, inconclusive street of Andermatt looked as if it were some accident — houses, hotels, barracks, lodging-places tumbled at random as the caravan of civilization crossed this high, cold, arid bridge of the European world.”

Times have changed. Most of the soldiers are gone and over the past decade £1.3bn has been invested to create a modern, upmarket ski and golf resort, a project overseen by the Egyptian-born billionaire Samih Sawiris. A five-star hotel, the Chedi, opened in 2013. Michelin stars followed, as did new lifts and a 650-seat concert hall. Last year, Vail Resorts, the largest ski resort operator in the US, bought a controlling stake in Andermatt’s lift company; this month sees the opening of an outpost of Ibiza’s Cotton Club.

But if the jet set has arrived in Andermatt, up in the surrounding peaks and valleys things felt as rugged as ever. We began by taking a little red rack-and-pinion train out of town, a 20-minute ride up to the Oberalp Pass (and in the opposite direction to Engelberg). We stepped off the platform straight on to the snow, fixed adhesive climbing skins to our skis, and set off up a peak called the Pazolastock, Sevi setting the slow, meditative pace of an expert ski tourer. From the top we could see the cable car station on the summit of the Klein Titlis, the high point of the Engelberg ski area, only 30km away as the crow flies, but through a tangle of ridges and valleys that would take days to navigate on foot.

Dropping back down, we pressed on south into a snowbound valley that could have been Antarctica — an all-white world, snow flurries lit by shafts of sunlight through the swirling clouds. Up ahead was our objective for the night, the Maighelshütte, a lonely mountain refuge at 2,310 metres.

Inside, over hot apple cake with swirls of whipped cream, we scanned weather and avalanche forecasts, and heard more about Dan’s life story. Originally from Massachusetts, he’d come to Andermatt as a powder-chasing ski bum in 2003 and never left, first setting up a boutique ski manufacturer, Birdos, then training as a guide and starting a family.

He now speaks English with a singsong Swiss-German cadence, a joke never far from his lips. In The Last Whale in Switzerland , a short ski film released online last month, he’s asked: what lies do you tell during a working day? Without missing a beat he comes back: “That it’s going to be fun, that you’re doing a good job, and that we’re almost there.”

In the morning, we climbed up to Piz Borel, crossed the Maighels Pass, then made a 10km descent to Andermatt, passing barns on the outskirts of the village that are the winter home of yaks, the farmers finding the Himalayan animals better able than cows to cope with the local terrain.

Just to the north of Andermatt is the small town of Göschenen, the gateway to the 17km-long Gotthard motorway tunnel, a key route between Milan and Zurich that is used by some 17,000 vehicles a day. But stretching up to the west is Göscheneralp, a long, pristine valley where the sense of isolation seems sharpened by the knowledge of the rushing traffic down below.

After a short taxi ride to Göschenen, we put on our skis again to climb to Göscheneralp’s only hamlet, about 1,600 metres above sea level. It’s popular with hikers and campers in summer, but in winter the road is closed and the community cut off — fewer than a dozen people remain.

We stayed at the Gastaus Göscheneralp, a picture-perfect eight-room guesthouse with bright red shutters and a flagpole outside. Since 2016, it has been run by Dan and his wife Seraina; we were its first guests of the year. After dinner — yak stroganoff — Dan and Sevi broke the bad news: the avalanche bulletin suggested it would still be too dangerous to press on with the Urner the next day. Instead, we’d have to sit tight, take a day’s ski tour around the valley and hope for an improvement. I was anxious — making it to Engelberg was seeming increasingly unlikely.

And yet the next day dawned bright and sunny, and being marooned in Göscheneralp began to feel more like a blessing than a frustration. We ate homemade bircher muesli with fresh bread, jam from last summer’s blueberries and honey from a neighbour, then headed out to explore, skiing along the street, the occasional villager coming to their door to shout hello. Apart from the rhythmic swish of our skis, it was as still and silent as anywhere I’ve known, the snow drifts and icicles glittering.

Later I had tea with Konrad Mattli, 92, who had grown up with his sister and four brothers in an older hamlet, higher up among fields on the flat valley floor. Alte Göscheneralp , a book and online oral history project , contains photographs from his childhood — as a baby on his mother’s lap, with his brothers carrying supplies through wildflower meadows on rough wooden rucksacks, and of the villagers coming together for choir practice on a chalet terrace, or for school trips to a nearby lake. “My father was a mountain guide, a hunter and a crystal collector — and we did everything together as a family,” said Konrad smiling.

The photos look pre-industrial and idyllic — no road reached here even in summer until the 1950s — but life must have been hard and people still talk about the avalanche that swept down in 1951, destroying two houses and going right through the ground floor of the school. Luckily, there were only a few children there that day, said Konrad, and so the teacher had taken them into his rooms upstairs, where it was warmer. No one was killed but after that, the families agreed to plans for a hydroelectric reservoir that was completed in 1962, submerging the old village.

That night brought more long discussions about routes and risks, then eventually a plan. If we put in a long day — an ascent of about 1,700 metres and 18km distance — we might be able to get back on track to Engelberg. We rose for breakfast at 4.30am, and clipped into our skis by the light of our headtorches. Christian Näf, the jovial goat farmer next door, had agreed to give us a tow on his snowmobile to get us up to the dam, saving us the first 40 minutes or so. He threw out a rope behind, we clung on and we were off, an unlikely trail of lights in a vast, dark valley.

By 2pm we had made it to the end of the valley and clambered over the ridge on to the dazzling expanse of the upper Stein glacier, the peak of the Sustenhorn to our right. Now it was downhill, gently at first, then steeper, the glacier cracking into a series of crevasses. We roped up to edge gingerly around them, Sevi gamely going first. It was just after 4pm when made it on to the terrace of the Berglodge Steinalp to toast a glorious, gruelling, day.

At dawn it was just Dan and me, scraping up an icy slope above the hotel. Struck down by blisters, the Finns had left us at Göscheneralp, and the honeymooners had opted for a slightly easier final day’s tour. There was no guarantee we’d make it through the last mountains to Engelberg but for now, with the sun gradually warming our backs, concentrating on the ascent and breathing hard, it was easy to be in the moment, relishing being alone on the mountain, a world away from the crowded pistes of a conventional ski trip.

At the top we could see the Titlis cable car station, but first came that slope on the Wendenhorn, and that decision.

In the end we turned back, instead choosing a much longer but gentler route down the Urat glacier, though still fabulous skiing in deep, untouched powder. On the way up to our final pass, where melting snow fell from the cliffs of Mount Titlis like waterfalls, we mulled over the choice and how appetite for risk decreases with age — “For sure, I think about my kids,” said Dan.

We said goodbye that night in Engelberg, which, down at 1,000 metres, was well into spring, surrounded by green fields, the verges filled with spring flowers, a shock after a week spent amid snow and ice.

The next day, with a few hours before my train, I took the cable car up to the Titlis. Inside the summit station, surrounded by year-round snow, there are cut-outs of Bollywood stars (several movies have been filmed in the area), a shop selling Lindor chocolates in numerous flavours, a prayer room, an ice-cream parlour and a photography studio complete with traditional Swiss costumes.

On the viewing platform I jostled for a space against the handrail and looked back to the shining white sweep of the Stein glacier and the steep slopes of the Wendenhorn, already finding it hard to believe how far we’d come. Then something caught my eye — a slab of snow had pulled out of the slope. I WhatsApped Dan a picture, and a thank you.

Tom Robbins was a guest of Andermatt Guides ( andermatt-guides.ch ), the Swiss, Lucerne, Andermatt and Engelberg tourist boards ( myswitzerland.com ; luzern.com , andermatt.swiss and engelberg.ch ) and Swiss International Air Lines ( Swiss.com ). The five-day Urner Haute Route with Andermatt Guides costs from SFr1,314 (£1,187)

Find out about our latest stories first — follow @FTWeekend on X and Instagram, and subscribe to our podcast Life and Art wherever you listen

Promoted Content

Follow the topics in this article.

• Winter sports Add to myFT
• Travel Add to myFT
• Switzerland Add to myFT
• Tom Robbins Add to myFT

International Edition

Granath Mountain Guiding is a small guide company run by Tobias Granath. Tobias is a IFMGA/UIAGM/IVBV certified mountain guide based in Engelberg, Switzerland. He’s passionated mountaineer with more than twenty years of experience from skiing and climbing in the Alps.

We offer a wide range of guiding – from rock climbing to skiing. Have a look at what is currently available in the services, or just browse around to get inspired for your next trip.

Please contact us if your’e interested in any of our offers, or have a dream you need help to visualize.

Browse through some of my current guidings below. Or view a complete listing under Services.

The summer season is soon over but its already possible to make a reservation for next summer season . 

• Svalbard Ski & Sail Expedition Longyearbyen Book
• Urner Haute Route Andermatt - Engelberg Book
• Engelberg Backcountry skiing Engelberg Book
• Custom courses & personal guiding Alps & Scandinavia Book

Aug 29 / 2022

Last week we had five amazing days in the Urner Alps. Urner Haute Route, the summer adventure trek! As the name suggest, the trek contains various adventures such as Via Ferrata, glacier travel and wild alpine paths. As the winter ski-tour Urner Haute Route ,we sleep in Swiss alpine huts. The difference is that we […]

May 07 / 2021

Just got back from some adventurous days into the wild – the wild corner of Jungfrau region. This amazing place is for those who want to explore the wild part of the Jungfrau region. You need the level – a good portion of ski-touring experience and stamina! This ski-adventure starts from Jungfraujoch and going east […]

Nov 22 / 2017

The winter is knocking on the door and before I go all-in to winter mode I want to share little bit of my summer alpine climbing season. It was truly amazing. Normally I start my summer season in late May or early June but this summer I was late! In fact I didn’t start until beginning of […]

May 24 / 2017

Beginning of April I had the fortune to guide Urner Haute Route aka Skiers Haute Route. The ski tour starts in Realp/Andermatt and ends in the Engelberg valley after five days of ski touring spending four nights in comfortable mountain huts. This ski tour is for sure one of my favourite ski tours in this part of central […]

Big thanks Tobias Granath for these two days in Engelberg. Very impressed by both your skillfulness and patience.

Thanks for the free ride on Sunday, it was excellent fun and a great experience. We had a nice group too with Ebbe and Matt. I look forward to many more days at Engelberg with you and the team in the future.

HOW DIFFICULT IS THE CLASSIC SKI-TOUR HAUTE ROUTE BETWEEN CHAMONIX AND ZERMATT?

The traverse between Chamonix and Zermatt is a long ski-tour at high altitude so very good fitness is required for this ski-tour. You also need to be able to ski in different snow conditions and steep slopes. Previous experience of ski-touring is required. We ski in small groups. The reason of keeping the group small is to increase security on steeper ground.

WHICH PERIOD OF THE YEAR IS THE BEST TO GO ICE CLIMBING?

We need cold temperatures for a while to get frozen ice. From beginning of December it can be possible to go ice-climbing. The season for waterfall ice-climbing is short. In end of January it can be over. The alpine ice is often in good shape from Oktober to beginning of June.

Fri, 10. May 2024

• Today 9. May 2024 15°C Heavily cloudy 1°C
• Tomorrow 10. May 2024 16°C Mostly sunny 2°C
• Saturday 11. May 2024 18°C Mostly sunny 3°C

2024-05-10 | 13:00

Gotthard Second Tube Information Center

2024-05-11 | 09:00

2024-05-12 | 14:00

Barefoot course - more than just learning to walk and run barefoot properly

Current road reports, accessibility of pass roads, first-hand information about pass regions.

Webcam Andermatt

ski touring

In the Andermatt Holiday Region, there are diverse ski tours to choose from, just waiting to be discovered.

Ski Mountains, wherever you look

The Ursern Valley is the largest valley in Uri and brings with it a unique history thanks to its unique location between Graubünden (Oberalp Pass), Ticino (Gotthard Pass) and Valais (Furka Pass).

Skitourismus hatte hier schon früh Tradition und bietet durch die herrliche Lage inmitten der Alpen fast unbegrenzte Möglichkeiten. So entstand das attraktive Skigebiet am Gemsstock und Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis wurde zum Wintersportmekka. 

Ski tourism became a tradition very early on and offers almost unlimited possibilities due to the stunning location in the middle of the Alps. This is how the attractive ski area on Gemsstock developed and Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis became a winter sports mecca.

At the beginning of the long Witenwasser valley, you step onto the  Stotzigen Firsten - on of the classics in the Gotthard region.

The Rossbodenstock attracts with its summit flank and offers interesting, partly racy ski runs. It is usually combined with the ascent of the Pazolastock. However, the mountain lies on the edge of a wildlife rest zone, which must be taken into account when choosing a route.

Further north of the Rossbodenstock is the pleasant Badus , inconspicuous but very beautiful. Piz Badus offers extremely attractive, medium-steep downhill slopes and a great view of the surrounding peaks.

If you prefer a more leisurely pace, the  Chli Bielenhorn is the place for you. A small but fine, frequently visited skiing and snowshoeing destination surrounded by rugged granite peaks and steep glacier.

The Pizzo Lucendro , inconspicuous at first glance, nevertheless amazes its visitors at altitude. The view of the Rotondo area and the descent through the remote Witenwasser valley prove it right.

Pizzo Centrale marks the border between the cantons of Uri, Ticino and Grisons. The highest peak is only seventy centimetres short of the magical three-thousand-metre mark. The view is nevertheless overwhelming.

Even from a distance, you can see that the Tiefenstock is not easy to climb. But with alpine experience and perseverance, you will be blessed with a summit that you will cherish for a long time to come.

If the trained eye of a ski tourer wanders around the Ursern valley, he will not be able to escape the Galenstock area. The closely spaced peaks around the Albert Heim hut are too striking and imposing.

Göscheneralp

Tracks over glaciers and rocks.

Where once the original village of the Göscheneralp had to give way to a reservoir, there are countless skiing and climbing mountains.

The Göscheneralp valley stretches from the village of Göschenen via the fork of the Voralp valley to Chelenalp, situated behind the dam. The more the valley extends towards the Winterberge, the striking end formed by the Dammastock, Schneestock and Eggstock, the greater the variety of rewarding ski peaks.

To the right of the reservoir, several peaks form a chain that only allows a connection to the other side via the Lochberg. This beautifully shaped ski peak in a class of its own offers everything a ski tourer's heart desires: a wide and steep firn slope and a breathtaking view.

Those who tackle the long and sometimes arduous climbs of the Rorspitzlis from the Göscheneralp are rewarded with the extremely tempting and steep descents into the Meiental on the opposite side.

The most rewarding and at the same time best-known ski tour is probably to the Sustenhorn. The ascent from Voralp or Chelenalp is probably the most fitting way to encounter this giant of Uri. Once you have reached the summit cross, you will consider yourself lucky to be able to leave your mark in the unique high-alpine environment of glacier and rock.

In winter, when the road is closed to official traffic, the Geissenparadies taxi takes guests safely to the Göscheneralp or to Göschenen by snowmobile or sledge.

Uri's divide of snow crystals

As you drive up the Sustenpass road from Wassen into the Meiental, an area opens up that considered a true treasure trove of ski mountains. Isolated and not reachable by cable car, all ascents start in Färnigen. One only hast to decide between the richly structured south side and the mighty north side.

On the more or less sunny south side there are several worthwhile summits to achieve. On the opposite north side, not only are the peaks higher, but the climbs are also considerably longer and more strenuous.

The Grassen offers a breathtaking view of the Titlis south face and the Engelberg valley below. The descent to Engelberg enjoys an exceptional reputation among ski tourers.

One of the best-known and most visited peaks is the Bächenstock . The path leads up through magnificent snowy landscapes and the summit glacier, and you can already see what a great descent lies ahead.

One of the most impressive peaks is Gross Spannort , where alpine equipment and experience are an advantage when ascending.

The majestic  Stucklistock the majestic Stucklistock already presents itself in all its glory from the valley, but anyone who has ever stood on the stubby glacier during the ascent knows that its beauty has been vastly underestimated. The highest demands are met on the stepless descent, but you should be able to control your skis and find your way around the alpine environment.

Snow Touring Bus

 The  «Snow Touring Bus» is a transport service for ski tourers and snowshoers. With the regional offers, the public transport network is supplemented in places and extended to areas that were previously not accessible for public transport in winter.

In the Andermatt Holiday Region, the snow touring bus can be booked on the Andermatt-Färnigen route.

Book a seat

Urner haute route.

The historic ski tour between Andermatt and Engelberg spreads out in winter through a particularly wild and untouched region. A touch of adventurous spirit surrounds the grandiose stages from hut to hut. Summit tours from Gemsstock to Lochberg, Sustenhorn, Uratstock, Grassen, followed by a dream descent to Engelberg.  

This impressive route through the Alps of Central Switzerland used to be one of the great Alpine crossings. It offers around 5500 metres of ascent and descent and can be completed in four to five days.

The route is not marked. Optimal preparation and accompaniment by a mountain guide is highly recommended.

important information

• The Swiss Topo  map contains important information about the appropriate gradients of any ski tour.
• The Wildlife Rest Zones (Wildruhezonen) must always be observed.
• Information about the current avalanche situation should be reviewed.
• On every tour emergency equipment, comprising of LVS, probe, shovel, ideally complimented by avalanche air-bags, should be present.

Ski Touring Starter Course

Ski touring beginner course 1 day, from the slopes into nature.

You ski well but have never been on a ski tour? In our one-day course we teach you the most important facts, techniques and tactics as well as tips and tricks for a successful start into your ski touring career.

Tour planning Avalanche situation report Material knowledge Technique ascent with skins Finding confidence in the grip of the skins Intro crampons Ski technique off-piste Exciting descents

Skitouren Schnupperkurs

CHF 190,00

Related products

Skitourenkurs Basic (2 Tage)

CHF 380,00

Mittwoch Skitour

Spontan Gruppe

Familien Skitouren- & Lawinenkurs

The ski touring tryout course takes place on the base of an application tour in the Engelberg valley. Ascent 400 – 800 vertical meters.

Requirements: | Ski technique: Black slopes are no problem and a good off-piste skiing technique is available/ In case of insufficient technique, the mountain guide is entitled to dismiss the participant early. | Physical condition: Endurance for long downhill runs and ascents up to 3h. Time frame: 08:15 until tired legs!

Tiefschneekurs

Skitour und Eisfischen

CHF 430,00

Urner Haute Route

CHF 995,00

Gathering at the mountain guide office. Completion of material. Determination of location and discussion of course objectives Material & short theory Practical training according to course objectives End of course approx. 17:00 h Engelberg

Meeting time: 08:15 Engelberg Mountain Guide, Dorfstrasse 31, 6390 Engelberg

Ski touring skis with walking bindings (can be rented from us) Ski touring skins (suitable for skis) Hard iron Ski boots (touring ski boots are ideal) Ski poles LVS, probe, shovel Backpack (max. 30 L) Helmet (optional) Gloves Functional ski clothing Sunglasses Sun cream 1/2 tax Cash

Missing equipment can be rented from us.

What is the difference between the starter course and the basic ski touring course?

The starter course is designed for beginners who want to take their first step into the world of ski touring. Together we look at what it takes to go on a ski tour. In the terrain we show tips and tricks for the ascent, look at the avalanche situation and work out an initial tour plan.

The basic ski tour course is designed to enable you to go on a ski tour independently. More intensive attention is paid to tour preparation and the assessment of the avalanche situation. On the second day, what you have learned is put into practice on a practical tour.

What happens in bad weather?

In principle, ski tours can always be carried out. We adapt the course ideally to the conditions.

Führung nur durch ausgebildete und erfahrene Bergführer/Aspiranten.  Das Lawinen Safety-Set (Sonde, LVS, Schaufel) ist obligatorisch. Sofern das Skigebiet wegen extremen äusseren Wetterbedingungen geschlossen bleibt, bieten Ihnen eine Alternativmöglichkeit an.

Haute Route Andermatt to Engelberg

Enjoy the long runs of the Haute Route from Andermatt to Engelberg on this fantastic skiing adventure in the Alps, along with E-S Adventure Guides.

MOUNTAIN RANGES

OFFER PERIOD

Jan - Mar, Dec

FITNESS LEVEL

SKILL LEVEL

Intermediate

PAYMENT METHODS

Credit Card, Wire Transfer and more!

• Explore the amazing Haute Route on a unique week-long adventure.
• Discover amazing views and skiing opportunities.

Description

On this 1-week ski touring program, we will have the chance to enjoy the traditional Haute Route from Andermatt to Engelberg on skis.  This is a tour that I normally do from mid/late March to mid/late April. It is a pleasant time in the Alps with lots of snow and it’s mostly cold over 3000 meters but at the same time sunny. We have the opportunity to experience a nice combination of cold and fine spring snow.

You need to be fit as it is an intense week with many meters that will be traveled every day. It’s required that you have off-piste and ski touring experience. If you have no experience or if you are not sure about your ability to join, please feel free to get in touch with me, and let’s discuss it.

You’ll find below the program I usually propose. It might be adapted based on the snow and weather conditions before departure.

Please contact me if you are interested in this great adventure, or any other you would like to do in the Alps or elsewhere.

Price includes

- Accommodation included

- Guiding fee

- Breakfast

Price details

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

- Lunches and drinks

- Personal ski equipment

- Travel to / from Andermatt.

- All transportation throughout the week starting in and return to Andermatt.

- Lift ticket on the preparation day in Andermatt.

- Hotel with breakfast before and after the week

- Compulsory insurance that covers mountain rescue.

The price does not include the guide´s expenses (accommodation, meals, lift tickets, etc).

Secure your spot with just 25% payment

48-hour free cancellation with 30-day advance booking

Day 1 : Preparation day in Andermatt

We will do a short ski tour to test the equipment to ensure that everything fits and works. We will prepare and plan our lunches for the tour – possibly lightening up your backpack, etc. We will sleep at the hotel in Andermatt.

Day 2 : Realp (1 540m) - Albert Heim Hütte (2 543m)

The first day of the tour starts with a train ride to Realp, located just beyond Andermatt. We will eat a hearty lunch before putting on skins and walking towards Albert Heim hut … If we have energy left, we can continue towards Galenstock and enjoy some nice rides. Otherwise, we can also sit on the terrace and enjoy the awesome view for the rest of the day.

Day 3 : Albert Heim Hütte (2543m) - Chelenaalphütte (2350m)

The day starts early. Breakfast is served in the dining room. We will walk about 500 meters up until we get to Winterlücke. There, we will go down directly to Göcheneralpsee.  Or, we can also go through Lochberg depending on the weather. We then continue to Chelenaalptal towards the hut.

Day 4 : Chelenaalphütte (2350m) - Steingletcher (1 865m)

We start directly with the skins on and go to Sustenlimi which is about 700 meters up. There, we can choose whether we want to continue moving towards the top of Sustenhorn, 3500 m or just go down directly to Steigletcher where we will find our accommodation at the bottom of the valley. 1700 meters of altitude difference from the top of Sustenhorn … who can refuse that?

Day 5 : Steingletcher (1 865m) - Süstlihütte (2 257m)

We will move towards Fünffingerstock and pass through the Obertaljoch pass (about 2 850m). We then have several choices to go down to Sustlibach. A great ride… nice views and hopefully good snow … last bit up towards Süstlihüttan. We can then enjoy some well-deserved drinks.

Day 6 : Süstlihütte (2 257m) - Engelberg (1 000m)

The last day begins skinning up to Grassengrat / Stössensattel – a climb of around 600m. It’s perhaps the week’s best ride, an entire 1800 meters downhill. We will pass the Grassen bivouac (very beautiful) just below the mighty southeast wall of the Titlis. Once down in the valley, we take the local bus back to Engelberg.

What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?

About the guide : E-S Adventure Guides

E-S Adventure Guides

Mountain Guide

Gauthier and his team of IFMGA/UIMLA-certified mountain guides & leaders and rock climbing instructors (Anabelle, Andrea, Andrej, Claire, Christophe, Daniel, Elis, Enrico, Etienne, François, Guillaume, Ivan, Jessy, Julia, Mathis, Mitja, Olivier, and Robin) are some of the top outdoor adventure professionals in Europe.

Whether you wish to climb some of the best mountains in the Alps or go on an exciting bouldering adventure in Fontainbleau, among other amazing options, they will be able to show you the top spots and the ropes to ensure you have an unforgettable and safe adventure.

Gauthier will be your main point of contact during the booking process and will be able to help you with all the questions you have in order to make sure you receive the best possible guiding service.

Pick one of the programs featured for E-S Adventure Guides and start planning an awe-inspiring experience in the mountains!

| Italian | French | English

Certificates

UIMLA | UIAGM | IFMGA

What people are saying about E-S Adventure Guides

Great Experience and would hire again in a heart beat!

Excellent accompagnement, aussi bien avant la journée par mail, que le jour même. Yvan nous a amené à un site magnifique, et a prodigué d'excellents conseils à mon fils. Nous avons passé une excellente journée

Super ! Nous avons passé une excellente après-midi avec Willy ! Nous avons eu des conseils et des recommandations pour pouvoir continuer la pratique de via ferrata. Je recommande vivement cette expérience

We had a very exciting day with Willy! We had never done a via ferrata before and did Pont-a-Lesse and Marche-les-Dames in one day. Willy explained the different techniques very well and adapted to our wishes and the circumstances perfectly. Gauthier adviced us in the beginning correctly that Marche-les-Dames would be better for us than Les-Grandes-Malades in terms of difficulty. Overall we were very happy with the choice, spend a great day outdoors and can definitely recommend this adventure!

We had a really fantastic day of bouldering in Fontainebleau with our guide Ivan. He is very experienced and knows the region well. He showed us great boulders and routes that we would not have found on our own, and kept a good pace to keep us going for the full six hours.

You may also like

Private Heliski in Verbier with a guide

Chamonix-Zermatt Haute Route Ski Tour

Freeride ski day in Andermatt, Switzerland

Backcountry skiing with a guide in Verbier

Zermatt Guided Ski Touring

Grand Saint Bernard pass ski touring

Freeride skiing day trips in Zermatt

The Haute Route, 7-day Ski tour from Chamonix to Zermatt

Guided freeride ski day in Andermatt

Find more trips

Join our newsletter.

Stay up-to-date on the best adventures.