Triftsee

Triftsee is a proglacial lake in the Gadmertal valley, in the Innertkirchen area of the canton of Bern, Switzerland. It sits in a basin freed by the retreating Trift Glacier. Across its milky turquoise water runs one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the Alps, and the walk to reach it ranks among the best day hikes in the Bernese Oberland.

How did the lake form?

The water began to collect in the late 1990s as the Trift Glacier shrank. After 2001 the lake grew considerably. It is now also at the centre of debate over hydropower development and environmental protection in the valley, so the landscape and the plans around it keep changing.

What will you see?

The highlight is the Triftbrücke. It spans roughly 170 m and hangs about 100 m above the valley floor. The first footbridge went up in 2004, because the ice no longer reached high enough for visitors to walk across it to the Trift Hut run by the Swiss Alpine Club. The current bridge opened on 12 June 2009. From the deck you look over the lake, the glacier tongue and the rock walls around them.

How do you get there?

The hike starts in Gadmertal. The Triftbahn gondola leaves from Nessental and reaches the top station at Triftalp in about 10 minutes. From there the bridge is around 1.5 hours on foot. The trail is graded T3 on the mountain hiking scale, so treat it as a proper hill walk, not a stroll. On the way back you can stop at the Windegg Hut, about half an hour from the bridge. The route onward to the Trift Hut is a much harder T5 alpine trail for experienced walkers only.

When should you go?

The Triftbahn runs seasonally, from late June to mid-October. Capacity is limited, so book online in advance. Pack sturdy boots, a warm layer and water. With the gondola, the ride and the walk together usually fill a full day. Check the current bridge entry fee and the weather report before you set out.

Is it suitable for everyone?

The bridge sways slightly, which can be unsettling for anyone afraid of heights. Keep children close and dogs on a lead. The trail needs no climbing gear but does call for decent fitness.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Triftsee?

In the Gadmertal valley near Gadmen, part of the Innertkirchen municipality in the canton of Bern, below the Trift Glacier.

How long is the bridge over the lake?

About 170 m, at roughly 100 m above the valley floor.

How long is the walk from the gondola?

Around 1.5 hours one way from the Triftalp station. The descent usually goes faster.

When does the Triftbahn operate?

From late June to mid-October. Online booking is recommended because capacity is limited.