Our first hike out of Grindelwald was a relatively low-altitude stroll across the high terrain above town, from the end of the bus line at Bussalp to the end of another bus line at Waldspitz. The sky was cloudy as the bus wound up the steep and twisty road from Grindelwald, past the holiday homes and into the farm country high above town. Still, the clouds looked like they were struggling to hold form as the daylight grew stronger, so we headed up the trail in high spirits. Soon we were following a narrow track that meandered among the cows, across streams, and through meadows strewn with wildflowers. The clouds began to dissipate and the incredible peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peeked out from across the valley. Read on, and check out the photos!
Some of the cows were friendly – very friendly, coming to sniff my camera (below) and even to lick my hand and camera (video). We passed a shepherd leading his goats to high pasture, crossed small patches of snow and over a rocky outcrop, then down into the valley of Bachalpsee (Bachsee) – a small but beautiful mountain lake that is popular with tourists. We spent little time there, avoiding the busy tourist path from “First”, and headed down the valley toward Waldspitz… where we knew we would find an alpine hut that could serve for lunch. We enjoyed its deck, the sunshine, the stunning views, and a hearty meal, before tottering down the road to the bus home. What a day! Don’t miss the gallery of photos and videos.
Hike stats:
Distance: 9.1km
Altitude: ~2400m high point
Gain: 362m
Time: 4h42m (including lunch)
David Kotz 
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