Der Lötschenpass

The Lötschenpass was, like the Schnidejoch, an important mountain pass between the Valais and Berne. In historical terms, the Lötschenpass was used between prehistoric times and the beginning of the Middle Ages. Later, due to significant climatic changes, these two passes became difficult to cross because of the snow and ice that covered them. This explains why, like at the Schnidejoch, we found very old objects, lost or abandoned in these places.

Until recently, crossing the Lötschenpass could be considered a mountaineering tour, as the Lötschegletscher was much larger. Nowadays, with the glacier retreating, we find ourselves walking on ice covered with rocks, giving the impression of walking on a scree. The fact that the most direct route crosses a glacier explains why there is another route that goes directly from Schönbüel through the wall to the glacier moraine. This is a relic of a project to improve the Lötschenpass trail dating back to the 17th century.

Here, we started from Selde following the marked trail. As we approached the slope below Gfelalp, the trail became very steep, and it was only on the alp that the slope eased somewhat. A little further up, we joined and crossed the small plateau of Schönbüel. After the plateau, we continued along the trail to first climb towards the foot of the wall and then cross below it reach the glacier. In doing so, we had to cross some ravines, which could be difficult early in the season, just after the snow has melted.

We then crossed the „glacier“ to climb up the lateral moraine. We then followed it until it came to an end against rocks. We then climbed along the marked trail, first to the left and then up to a small passage equipped with a cable that goes back to the right. A little further up, we crossed the last rocks before the slope eased noticeably as we approached the pass. It is interesting to note that the trail does not cross the pass itself, but higher, on its eastern flank.

On the way down, we crossed the slopes under the Hockehorn to reach Lauchernalp. We took the opportunity to go to the top of the Hockuchriz. We had a great view of the Lötschental, and unfortunately, the Blatten landslide.

Itinerary: Selde – Gfelalp – Schönbüel – Lötschepass – Sattlegi – Hockuchriz – Lauchernalp
Distance: 11.9Km
Elevation gain: 1280m
Duration: 5h30