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Fiescheralp to Riederalp - The Aletsch Arena Traverse

A fabulous and straightforward journey between the 3 villages of the Aletsch Arena.

Mountain Biking Moderate

Distance
8.4 km
Ascent
113 m
Descent
427 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
1.9 km
High Point
2.2 km
Gradient
Fiescheralp to Riederalp - The Aletsch Arena Traverse Map

This is a route with countless variations which takes you on a stunning high mountain journey between the 3 little villages that make up the Aletsch Arena. Consider the line here as a suggestion of a route rather than a fixed itinerary. The riding is easy all the way and this is a great route for beginners and intermediates.

Description

Ride the cable car up to Fiescheralp and follow the large jeep track south-west out of the village. The jeep track is non-technical but rolls beautifully and although the terrain is easy, the track has a great flow and is fun and exciting to ride.

The traverse towards Bettmeralp is truly spectacular, with big views in all directions and a really wild feel. The track takes you into Bettmeralp directly but it's much more fun to detour from the edge of the village to the Bettmersee and do a loop around this. The lake usually has people around it enjoying the serenity and doing a bit of fishing so it's a fun place to sit and watch the World go by for a while.

Head to the south-west corner of the lake and then follow a track that climbs gently up to a small forest and then descends on the far side of the forest to Riederalp, where you can grab some food and drink before taking the cable car down to the valley floor.

For more adventurous riders there is a lifetime's worth of good riding down the steep hillside to the south of the villages but for those looking for a cruisy way to check out this beautiful area, this is the ride for you.

Difficulty

Moderate

Mostly stable trail tread with some variability, with unavoidable obstacles 8in/20cm tall or less. Other obstacles such as rock gullies and steep sections may exist. Ideal for lower intermediate riders.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between June and October

Features

  • Flow
  • Picturesque
  • Roots