The rock arena around Lake Oeschinen

At the start of this hike you will see the turquoise waters of Lake Oeschinen, surrounded by the 3000-metre-plus peaks Doldenhorn, Fründenhorn, Oeschinenhorn and Blüemlisalphorn. The trail takes you from the mountain station to Oberbärgli via Heuberg and Abeweid. From Oberbärgli, it continues on to Underbärgli on a path of steep rock steps. This section of the trail with the rock steps from Oberbärgli to Underbärgli is partly exposed and requires sure-footedness.

The route winds its way under protruding sections of rock, via Holzbalme down to Lake Oeschinen, which was created by a rockfall. After that, the hike follows the Öschibach to Kandersteg, taking you past waterfalls on the way. It is vital to heed any restrictions that may be in place when there is a high risk of rockfalls in this area.

You can shorten this route by starting from Oeschinensee station, heading straight for the lake and then going back to Kandersteg. If you are looking for a more challenging mountain hike, you can try the route from Kiental that goes via Höhtürli.