A via ferrata that goes downhill
Most via ferratas climb. The route between Mürren and Gimmelwald goes down. It runs 2.2 kilometres along and down the cliff face, with 300 metres of height difference between the start and the finish. The official grade is K3, rated fairly difficult, and the route is very exposed. Allow about 3 hours.
The highlight is an 80 metre Nepal bridge. A 60 metre zip line, called a Tyrolienne, is also on offer, but only with a mountain guide.
Route facts at a glance
The key numbers for the Mürren to Gimmelwald via ferrata.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Direction | Downhill, from Mürren to Gimmelwald |
| Length and height | 2.2 km, 300 m difference |
| Grade | K3 (fairly difficult), very exposed |
| Time | About 3 hours |
| Nepal bridge | 80 m |
| Zip line (Tyrolienne) | 60 m, only with a mountain guide |
| Cost | Free, voluntary donation |
Mürren and Lauterbrunnen activities
Cable car tickets, guided adventures and day trips around Mürren, with live prices and availability.
Season and opening hours 2026
The via ferrata is open in summer and in good weather only.
The season runs from 1 June to 31 October, from 9:00 to 18:00. The route only opens in good weather. In 2026 the season ends on 31 October, so the autumn weeks at the end of October are the last chance.
One note for late October 2026: on weekdays from 19 to 23 and from 26 to 30 October, the Schilthorn cable car does not stop in Gimmelwald during the day (8:10 to 17:50). You then continue from Mürren by the new cable car from Stechelberg and by bus. Check the timetable before you plan the return.
Entry, start and return
Walking the route costs nothing. Here is how the day works.
Free, with a donation
Walking the via ferrata is free. At the start there are boxes for a voluntary donation.
Find the start
The start is about 10 minutes on foot from Mürren station, at the Sportchalet. See the Mürren page for how to reach the village.
Mürren →Watch the intro video
An introduction video is compulsory before you start.
Return by cable car
At the end you reach Gimmelwald. From there the cable car takes you back to Mürren or down to Stechelberg.
Gimmelwald →Gear and safety
You need a harness, a via ferrata set, a helmet, gloves and sturdy shoes. The equipment can be rented at Intersport Mürren. Rental prices are not listed here, so ask in the shop.
The route is very exposed and graded K3. It suits you if you are comfortable with heights and have the right gear. It is not for anyone who dislikes exposure. The route opens in good weather only, so check conditions on the day. A guide is the only way to use the zip line.
Combine it with other plans
The via ferrata fits well into a day around Mürren and Gimmelwald.
Schilthorn
The cable car from Mürren reaches the Schilthorn in about 15 minutes via Birg.
Schilthorn →Mürren via ferrata: frequently asked questions
Does the Mürren via ferrata go up or down?
Down. It leads from Mürren to Gimmelwald and drops 300 metres over 2.2 kilometres.
How hard is the Mürren via ferrata?
It is graded K3, which means fairly difficult, and the route is very exposed. You should be comfortable with heights.
How long does it take?
About 3 hours for the whole route.
Is the Mürren via ferrata free?
Yes. The route is free. There are boxes at the start where you can leave a voluntary donation.
When is it open?
From 1 June to 31 October, 9:00 to 18:00, in good weather only.
Can I rent the equipment?
Yes, at Intersport Mürren. You need a harness, set, helmet, gloves and sturdy shoes.