Wild and untamed – the Gasteretal valley

Starting from Kandersteg train station, follow the hiking trail southwards to the junction to the Kandersteg-Allmenalp cable car, from where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Allmenbachfall waterfall plunging over 100 meters deep. However, continue not towards the cable car but west along the water on the Lötschberg Panorama Trail. Soon you enter the gorge that marks the entrance to the Gasteretal valley. The first part through the gorge is somewhat steep and rocky, but the ascent is rewarded with impressive views of the wild and rushing Kander river, demonstrating the power of the water. After the trail crosses the Kander for the second time via a bridge, the valley slowly opens up in all its splendor. The Kander divides into several arms, and the trail running on the right side reveals an ever more impressive view of the mighty mountain landscape. After crossing the right side arm, you pass through a forest area to the Waldhaus mountain hotel, inviting for a break. Almost imperceptibly, the trail rises gently on the flat valley floor. On the right side, especially after rains or in spring, the 70-meter-high Geltenbachfall waterfall is visible. The route continues along the Kander towards Selde. Around the rocks, water cascades into the valley repeatedly. After crossing three bridges, you reach a junction, leave the panorama trail here, and turn right onto the now white-red-white marked mountain hiking trail. Passing the Änderwasser huts, take the next left at the junction. After the forest, a 72-meter-long suspension bridge leads to the endpoint in Selde, the Hotel Steinbock.

Background: The Gasteretal valley is only inhabited in summer – then cozy inns invite you to visit. A special feature of the valley is the Geltenbachfall, which springs from the north face of the Altels in the middle of the huge rock face. After rains or during the snowmelt, the waterfall, behind which lie huge karst caves, becomes active as an additional outlet of the cave system.