Bachalpsee is one of the best-known mountain lakes above Grindelwald in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland. Sitting at 2,265 metres above sea level, the lake is reached most easily by taking the First cable car from Grindelwald and then following a well-maintained mountain trail. On a calm day, its water can reflect the surrounding Alpine peaks and create one of the Jungfrau Region’s classic views.
The visit is accessible to many recreational hikers, but it is still a high-mountain outing. Weather, snow and trail conditions can change quickly, so good footwear, layers and a check of current operating conditions are part of a sensible plan.
Quick Answer
Bachalpsee is a 2,265-metre alpine lake above Grindelwald. Take the First cable car from Grindelwald to First, then walk roughly 50–60 minutes to the lake. The basic First–Bachalpsee return hike takes about 1 hour 50 minutes of walking, although you should allow extra time for photos, rests and changing mountain conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Bachalpsee lies at 2,265 metres above sea level in the Bernese Oberland above Grindelwald.
- The usual route is the First cable car followed by approximately 50–60 minutes of walking to the lake.
- Jungfrau Railways lists the basic First–Bachalpsee return outing at about 1 hour 50 minutes of walking.
- Calm early-morning or late-day conditions can produce especially attractive mountain reflections.
- Fishing is regulated and requires a special Bachalpsee licence; the official fishing season is June 15 through October 31.
- Check the latest cable-car operation, weather and hiking-trail status before leaving Grindelwald.
At a Glance
| Time Required | About 50–60 minutes each way from First; roughly 1 hour 50 minutes of walking for the basic return hike. Allow 2.5–3 hours if you want relaxed stops and photos. |
| Difficulty | Relatively easy for a mountain hike, but there are uphill sections, uneven surfaces and exposure to rapidly changing alpine weather. |
| Tools Needed | Supportive walking shoes, weather layers, water, snacks, sun protection and a charged phone. |
| Cost | There is no separate hiking fee for the trail. Most visitors need a Grindelwald–First cable-car ticket unless their pass covers the journey. Fares vary, so check the official Jungfrau Railways site before travelling. |
Getting to Lake Bachalpsee
The most convenient starting point is Grindelwald. From the village, take the First cable car to the First mountain station. The ride itself gives you increasingly wide views across the surrounding mountain landscape as you climb above Grindelwald.
From First, follow the marked route toward Bachalpsee. Official Jungfrau information describes the trail as well maintained and puts the full First–Bachalpsee–First outing at approximately 1 hour 50 minutes of walking. Switzerland Tourism gives an approximate one-way walking time of 50 minutes when the route is snow-free.
The first part of the walk includes uphill terrain, so the route can feel more strenuous than its relatively short distance suggests. Once you settle into the hike, broad Alpine views become the main attraction. Take your time rather than treating the lake as a destination that must be reached as quickly as possible.
Warning: Do not rely on a fixed summer schedule from an older article. Before travelling, check the current Jungfrau Railways operating information and Grindelwald hiking-trail status. Note the last downhill cable car before starting your hike.
Hiking and Nature Trails
The hike between First and Bachalpsee passes through open alpine scenery, with mountain meadows, low vegetation and rocky terrain replacing the generic forest setting found on many lower-elevation walks. In the warmer months, wildflowers can add color along the route.
The straightforward option is to walk from First to the lake, spend time along the established paths and viewpoints, and return the same way. This is the best choice for visitors who want the Bachalpsee experience without committing to a full-day mountain hike.
Stronger hikers can use Bachalpsee as part of a longer route. One important option continues toward Faulhorn, while other routes connect toward Bussalp or Waldspitz. The much longer high-altitude route between First and Schynige Platte also passes Bachalpsee and Faulhorn; Jungfrau Railways describes that journey as roughly six hours of hiking.
Pro Tip: If Bachalpsee is your main goal, resist adding a long extension automatically. Spend more time at the lake and return to First with a comfortable margin before the last gondola. Continue toward Faulhorn or another destination only if you have the time, footwear, weather and fitness for a longer mountain route.
Wildlife and Flora
| Category | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Wildlife | Alpine wildlife may be seen in the wider area, including animals such as marmots or chamois, but sightings are never guaranteed. Observe animals quietly and from a distance. |
| Flora | Mountain meadows can display a variety of alpine flowers during the snow-free season. What is blooming changes with elevation, weather and time of year. |
| Conservation | Stay on established paths where directed, leave plants in place, take litter back with you and avoid disturbing wildlife. |
The natural setting is part of Bachalpsee’s appeal. Rather than visiting with a checklist of animals you expect to see, slow down and look across the meadows and rocky slopes. Marmots, chamois and Alpine birds may be encountered in the wider region, but wildlife behavior varies by season, time of day and human activity.
The flora is just as important. During warmer months, small alpine flowers grow in a landscape shaped by a short growing season and high-altitude conditions. Delicate daisies, other meadow flowers and occasional edelweiss can occur in the Swiss Alps, but visitors should enjoy flowers where they grow rather than picking them.
Bachalpsee sits at 2,265 metres above sea level, high enough that weather and trail conditions can feel very different from those down in Grindelwald.
Photography Opportunities
Bachalpsee is especially well known for mountain reflections. Switzerland Tourism specifically highlights reflections of the Wetterhorn, Schreckhorn, Finsteraarhorn and the Grindelwald glacier in the lake.
Reflection photographs work best when the water is calm. Early morning and the quieter periods around the beginning or end of the day can offer better conditions, although wind, cloud and rapidly changing weather always affect the result.
You do not need professional equipment to enjoy the scene. A phone or compact camera is enough for wide landscapes. If you carry interchangeable lenses or a tripod, remember that every extra item adds weight to the hike.
Explore established viewpoints instead of stepping onto fragile vegetation just to change your composition. Small movements along the path can produce very different foregrounds, reflections and mountain alignments without damaging the surrounding landscape.
Activities on and around the Lake
Hiking, photography, picnicking and simply enjoying the mountain scenery are the main reasons to spend time at Bachalpsee. Unlike a developed recreational lake, Bachalpsee should not be approached with the expectation of finding paddleboat or kayak rentals at the shore; current official visitor information does not list such a rental operation.
Fishing is a genuine activity at Bachalpsee, but it is regulated. According to Grindelwald Tourism’s Bachalpsee fishing information, a special fishing licence is required and the official season runs from June 15 through October 31. Check the current licence conditions before carrying fishing equipment up the mountain.
Picnicking is another simple way to enjoy the setting. Bring food and enough water rather than assuming everything will be available beside the lake. Pack out all wrappers and food waste when you leave.
If you like preparing food for day trips, a homemade option such as this recipe for delicious homemade cottage cheese can be prepared before your outing and included as part of a suitable packed meal.
For visitors looking for more adrenaline after the hike, Grindelwald First offers separate activities such as the First Flyer, First Glider, Mountain Cart and Trottibike when operating. These are First-area attractions rather than activities on Bachalpsee itself.
Note: Bachalpsee is a high-alpine natural destination, not a staffed beach or watersports centre. If you are considering entering the water, check current local guidance and conditions first. Alpine water can remain very cold even when the weather feels warm.
Nearby Attractions and Accommodations
Bachalpsee can easily be combined with other experiences around Grindelwald First. The First Cliff Walk presented by Tissot is near the mountain station, while the First View platform and seasonal adventure activities provide additional reasons to spend time in the area.
Hikers with more experience can continue toward Faulhorn or use routes leading toward Bussalp, Waldspitz or, on a much longer itinerary, Schynige Platte. These extensions require substantially more time than the basic Bachalpsee visit and should be planned separately.
Another major destination in the wider Jungfrau Region is Jungfraujoch. It is a separate excursion from Bachalpsee and is reached using the mountain transport network toward Eigergletscher and the Jungfrau Railway rather than by continuing along the Bachalpsee trail.
Grindelwald provides the widest choice of accommodation for a Bachalpsee visit, from guesthouses and apartments to larger hotels. Staying in the village makes it straightforward to reach the First cable-car valley station and also gives you access to restaurants, shops and other services before or after your mountain outing.
Tips for Visiting Lake Bachalpsee
Check Conditions Before You Leave
Mountain conditions can change quickly. Check the weather, First cable-car operation and current trail status on the morning of your visit. Snow can remain on high trails beyond the point when Grindelwald itself feels like summer.
Wear Suitable Footwear
The route is popular and relatively approachable, but it is still a mountain path. Supportive walking or hiking shoes with useful grip are preferable to smooth-soled casual footwear, especially when the path is wet.
Carry Layers and Sun Protection
Bring an insulating layer and a light weather-resistant outer layer even on a pleasant day. At 2,265 metres, wind and cloud can change how the temperature feels quickly. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are useful because UV exposure is stronger at altitude.
Bring Water and Food
Carry enough water for the return walk and extra time at the lake. A snack or packed lunch gives you more flexibility and allows you to enjoy the setting without needing to rush back.
Start With Enough Time
If you depend on the First cable car to return to Grindelwald, check the last departure before starting the hike. Do not calculate your return around the fastest possible walking time. Leave a margin for photographs, fatigue, crowds and changes in weather.
Consider an Early Visit
Earlier departures can mean a quieter trail and may improve your chances of finding calm water for reflections. Weekdays can also feel less busy than peak weekend periods, although visitor numbers vary with weather and holiday periods.
Take Your Time at the Lake
Bachalpsee is more rewarding when you leave room in your schedule to stop. Walk to different established viewpoints, watch the light change across the mountains, listen for birds and enjoy the setting rather than treating the lake as a quick photo stop.
The combination of an accessible mountain approach, high-alpine scenery, reflections, wildflower meadows and longer hiking possibilities makes Bachalpsee appealing to photographers, walkers and nature-focused visitors. A little planning makes the experience much better: confirm current conditions, dress for the mountains, carry what you need and give yourself enough time to enjoy both the journey and the lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lake Bachalpsee?
Bachalpsee, also called Lake Bachalp or Bachsee, is a high-alpine lake above Grindelwald in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland. It sits at approximately 2,265 metres above sea level and is known for mountain views and reflections in calm weather.
How do I get to Lake Bachalpsee?
The simplest route is to take the First cable car from Grindelwald to the First mountain station and then follow the marked hiking trail to Bachalpsee. Check current lift and trail status before travelling.
How long is the hike from First to Bachalpsee?
Allow approximately 50–60 minutes to reach Bachalpsee from First. Jungfrau Railways lists the basic First–Bachalpsee return outing at roughly 1 hour 50 minutes of walking. Add more time for photographs, rest stops and time beside the lake.
Is the Bachalpsee hike difficult?
It is one of the more approachable mountain walks from Grindelwald First, but it is not completely flat. Expect uphill sections, uneven mountain surfaces and weather exposure. Suitable footwear and basic walking fitness make the trip much more comfortable.
Can children hike to Bachalpsee?
Many active children can manage the route when conditions are good, but suitability depends on the child’s walking experience, age and the day’s weather and trail conditions. Adults should allow extra time, carry food and water and avoid pushing ahead if a child becomes tired or conditions deteriorate.
What activities can I do at Bachalpsee?
The main activities are hiking, photography, picnicking, nature observation and licensed fishing. Official visitor information does not list a paddleboat or kayak rental operation at the lake, so do not plan your visit around renting a boat there.
Can I fish at Bachalpsee?
Yes, but fishing is regulated. Grindelwald Tourism states that a special Bachalpsee fishing licence is required and that the official fishing season runs from June 15 through October 31. Check current licence rules before your visit.
Are there facilities at Lake Bachalpsee?
Plan to be self-sufficient while you are at the lake. Carry water, food and anything else you need for the return hike. More substantial visitor services, food options and facilities are available around Grindelwald First and down in Grindelwald rather than at the lakeshore itself.
What is the best time to visit Lake Bachalpsee?
The most straightforward hiking conditions are generally during the snow-free period from early summer into autumn, with June through September being a practical core season for many visitors. Conditions vary each year, so check current trail status rather than relying only on the calendar. Calm mornings can be particularly good for reflections.
Sources
- Jungfrau Railways — Hike to Bachalpsee — official Bachalpsee elevation, route and walking-time information.
- Jungfrau Railways — Grindelwald-First — First cable car, Bachalpsee hike and surrounding activities.
- Switzerland Tourism — Lake Bachalp — elevation, approximate one-way walking time, mountain reflections and seasonal context.
- Grindelwald Tourism — Fishing at Bachalpsee — fishing season and special licence requirement.
- Grindelwald Tourism — Hiking Trail Status — current hiking-route conditions and operating information.
