Gehrihorn

Gehrihorn is a 2,130 m summit in the Bernese Alps, rising above the town of Frutigen in the canton of Bern. It marks the northern tip of the ridge separating the Kandertal from the Kiental, and it suits hikers who want big Oberland views without the crowds of the better-known peaks.

Where is the Gehrihorn?

The mountain sits between two valleys, the Kandertal and the Kiental, and looks down on Frutigen. Its coordinates are roughly 46.574° N, 7.692° E. A pass called Schlüsselpass lies just south of the top at about 2,090 m.

What can you see from the top?

The summit is a small plateau, and its west side drops almost vertically. On a clear day the panorama takes in the Blüemlisalp massif and Lake Thun. That open outlook is the main reward for the climb.

How do you climb it?

Several approaches exist, varying in length and difficulty.

• From Ramslauenen (Kiental): the shortest and most popular option. Start at the upper chairlift station; the ascent takes about 2 to 2.5 hours and gains around 730 m. The last section follows a steep but only moderately exposed northeast ridge, graded PD on the SAC scale. In winter, with enough snow, it is a favoured ski tour with a descent toward Reichenbach or Frutigen.
• From Kien: a longer, moderate hike of about 13.5 km with over 1,400 m of climbing, roughly six hours on foot. June to September is the recommended window.
• From Alp Ober Gerenen: a brief but steep climb starting near 1,610 m, about 360 m of ascent and around an hour. The access road through the Kiental is toll-based.
• Loop via Giesigrat to Mitholz: a harder route of about 13 km and nearly six hours, only for sure-footed walkers with a head for heights.

Climbers also use the west face, where local pioneers opened the first route in 1962.

When should you go?

Hiking is best from June to September, and winter brings ski tourers. Before setting out, check that the Kiental to Ramslauenen chairlift is running, since it has been out of service in at least one season.

Frequently asked questions

How high is the Gehrihorn?

2,130 m above sea level.

What is the quickest way up?

From the upper chairlift station at Ramslauenen, about 2 to 2.5 hours of ascent.

Is it a difficult climb?

The Ramslauenen route is graded PD by the SAC, with a steep but not very exposed final ridge. Ridge variants need sure footing and a good head for heights.

What is visible from the summit?

The Blüemlisalp, Lake Thun and a wide view across the Bernese Oberland.