The Balmhorn Hut is approached through the Gasterntal
| Start | Kandersteg (1176m) |
| Distance | 7km (one way) |
| Height gain | 780m |
| Grade | 3 |
| Time | 3½hrs |
| Location | Southeast of Kandersteg |
Another steep walk to an SAC hut. As its name suggests, the Balmhorn Hut is perched below the glaciers that adorn the northern flanks of the Balmhorn mountain. It overlooks the lower reaches of the Gasterntal, through which it is approached, and enjoys a privileged view from the stalls, as it were, of a wild glacial amphitheatre formed by the converging ridges of the twin peaks that so dominate the southern limits of the Kandertal: Altels and Balmhorn. For much of the way the route is straightforward, if rather steep, narrow and exposed in places. There are sections of fixed cable, others with rough ladders to help overcome certain natural obstacles. And shortly before reaching the hut there is a short (10mins) section where the path crosses directly below the ice cliffs of the Balmhorn glacier. As is the nature of such ice cliffs, every now and then some break away to create small avalanches and possible stonefall, and the objective danger inherent in this is something of which all who tackle this walk should be aware. A notice warning of this danger is positioned on the path as you approach the line of fire.
Walk up the road out of Kandersteg to Eggeschwand, valley station of the Sunnbüel cableway. Continue along the road as it winds up into the Klus gorge at the entrance to the Gasterntal, then break away on a signed footpath to Hotel Waldhaus (accommodation, refreshments). Continue upvalley in front of the hotel on a farm track for another 600m or so. As you cross a large open meadowland look for a noticeboard and a finely carved sign showing two marmots indicating the start of the path to the Balmhorn Hut. The path branches to the right and heads among trees. On coming to the foot of the cliffs the steep ascent begins. There are no alternative routes, so simply follow the trail as it makes its way directly up the mountainside. As mentioned above, there are places where fixed cables aid the way; others with sections of rough ladder. Caution is advised for there’s nearly always a degree of exposure as the path clings precariously to the cliff face.
Eventually the trail leads into a mid-height glacial cirque where the hut can be seen on the far side. High above the glacier’s ice cliffs hang ominously. From the danger sign as far as the hut you should step warily and move fast across moraine, streams and debris. Then, with a sense of relief, come to the Balmhorn Hut on its grassy promontory.
Owned by the Altels (Frutigen) Section of the SAC, the Balmhorn Hut has 26 dormitory places, and a guardian at weekends from June to the end of September. For reservations Tel 033 675 13 40.
The Balmhorn Hut is approached through the Gasterntal