Hockenhorn

Hockenhorn (3,293 m) is a Bernese Alps summit above Kandersteg, standing right on the border between the cantons of Bern and Valais. It rises between the upper Kandertal and the Lötschental, and it suits hikers who want a high Swiss summit without needing glacier skills.

Where is the Hockenhorn?

The mountain belongs to the main Bernese Alps chain in the western Alps. A glacier, the Milibachgletscher, lies below the summit on the southern Valais side. The classic approach starts on the Bernese side, from Kandersteg. The summit sits at roughly 46.43° N, 7.74° E.

How do you climb the Hockenhorn?

The standard plan is a two-day trip using the Lötschenpasshütte as a base. On day one you walk from Kandersteg via Selden and the Gasteretal valley up to the Lötschenpass (2,690 m), around seven hours. On day two you go for the summit, about five hours return. From the hut itself the climb takes roughly two hours, passing the Gitzifurgge saddle at 2,912 m.

You can also come from the Lötschental side. Take the train to Goppenstein, a bus to Wiler, then a gondola and two chairlifts up to Gandegg (2,717 m). From there it is just under 600 m of ascent to the top. Another hut, the Balmhornhütte, also serves as a starting point.

How hard is it?

Tour descriptions from Kandersteg grade the ascent T4 on the SAC hiking scale. You need good stamina, sure footing on scree and snow, and a head for exposure. Glacier experience is not required on the standard routes, but in autumn or after snowfall the final section can be hard-packed and slippery, so crampons and an ice axe become useful.

When should you go?

The Lötschenpasshütte is open from June to October, which is the best window for a summer ascent. In winter the Hockenhorn is also a ski-touring goal, with a popular route over the Lötschenpass ending in a descent to Ferden. Check conditions and the hut's status before you set out.

What will you see?

The summit gives views over the Kandertal and the Lötschental and the surrounding Bernese Alps peaks. If you do the full hut tour, the way down can lead towards Blatten along the Lötschentaler Höhenweg.

Frequently asked questions

How high is the Hockenhorn?

3,293 m. Some sources list 3,292 m because of differing measurements.

Do I need climbing gear?

Usually not on the standard summer routes. Outside the season, with snow or ice, bring crampons and an ice axe.

Where is the easiest place to start?

The shortest way is from Gandegg (2,717 m) on the Lötschental side; the classic two-day route starts in Kandersteg and crosses the Lötschenpass.

Where can I stay overnight?

At the Lötschenpasshütte, open June to October.