Hardergrat Ridge Traverse

The Hardergrat is a long, exposed ridge traverse between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland. It runs about 17 km point to point from Harder Kulm above Interlaken toward Augstmatthorn and descends to the Brienz side, with roughly 1,300 m of cumulative ascent and a typical duration of 7 to 8 hours. The usual access is the Harderbahn funicular from the valley station near Interlaken Ost to Harder Kulm, which saves the initial forest climb, and no permit is required. The route is rated as an alpine path, so it is harder than ordinary signposted hiking trails: the ridge is narrow in places, with steep grass and rock drops on both sides, and some steps are protected by cable or fixed aids. Sure-footedness and a head for heights are essential, and the trail is not suited to anyone uneasy with exposure. The surface alternates between grassy ridge crest, loose stony ground and short rocky steps, and there is almost no shade once the route leaves the forest near the start. Highlights include continuous views of both lakes and, on clear days, the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau to the south. There are no reliable water sources along the ridge and no staffed mountain huts, so water and food for the whole day must be carried, and the Harder Kulm restaurant at the start is the last place for supplies. Because the route is long and committing, the turn-around points are limited: the best decision point is early on, near Harder Kulm, where the walk can still be abandoned for the funicular. After the ridge the path descends steeply toward Brienz, where the railway station provides the return by train to Interlaken Ost in about 20 minutes. Dry, stable weather is essential; wet grass makes the ridge dangerous, and thunderstorms are a serious risk because there is little cover. Late-lying snow can remain into early summer, so conditions should be checked with local sources before setting out.