Kleine Scheidegg, an alpine pass in the Bernese Alps at an elevation of 2,061 meters, connects the villages of Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald. It is famous both for its impressive views and its location between the mountains of Eiger and Jungfrau. Furthermore, it is one of the highest mountain passes in Bernese Oberland. From Kleine Scheidegg, you can enjoy the stunning alpine scenery, hike to Wengen or Männlichen, ski, or climb the mountains. The Jungfraujoch railway stops at Kleine Scheidegg as well, taking you to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station.
Where is Kleine Scheidegg?
At an altitude of 2,061 meters above sea level, Kleine Scheidegg is located above the Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald valleys.
In the foothills of the snowy trio of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, Kleine Scheidegg is nestled between the Eiger and Lauberhorn mountains. On this saddle behind Lauberhorn, you can see the north face of the Eiger, one of the most difficult mountain faces to climb. At the top of this mountain pass is the Kleine Scheidegg railway station.
The Eiger North Face
The spectacular and challenging Eiger North Face is visible from Kleine Scheidegg. The Eiger North Face is a renowned climbing route on Eiger Mountain rising to a height of 1,800 meters (5,900 feet). Although there have been several fatalities on this face in the past, it continues to attract many skilled mountaineers and climbers.
The climbers find it incredibly fascinating as it is considered to be one of the most difficult and dangerous climbs. First of all, it is steep. Secondly, unpredictable weather conditions, ice, and rockfall make it quite difficult to climb. The Eiger North Face will never run out of people who want to test their skills. Climbers attempting the Eiger North Face need to be highly skilled in technical mountaineering and high-altitude climbing.
Hotel Bellevue des Alpes
Also in Kleine Scheidegg is Hotel Bellevue des Alpes, where you can choose whether to have a meal or spend the night. The Bellevue and the Des Alpes were built in 1842 and 1896 respectively. Despite its location in the mountains, this is an elegant and stylish hotel.
Kleine Scheidegg Railway Station
Situated at an impressive elevation of 2,061 meters (or 6,762 feet) above sea level, Kleine Scheidegg railway station offers travelers a unique vantage point to admire the surrounding alpine landscapes and absorb the invigorating mountain air.
Kleine Scheidegg railway station serves as a crucial junction where the Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen trains intersect, facilitating convenient transfers for passengers traveling between these two picturesque Swiss destinations.
Additionally, the Kleine Scheidegg railway station holds the distinction of being the downstream terminus of the renowned Jungfrau railway, an impressive rail network that boldly navigates the formidable terrain of the Eiger and Mönch mountains, ultimately leading travelers to the awe-inspiring Jungfraujoch.
Jungfraujoch
Jungfraujoch is the highest point in Europe reachable by train. Travelers often list taking the train from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch among their things to do in Switzerland. However, I must admit that this ride with breathtaking mountain views is one of the most expensive in the world.
If you decide to head to Jungfraujoch, please note two things. First, wear warm clothing and sunglasses, even in the summer. Secondly, you might feel uncomfortable once you reach the highest altitude when traveling on the Jungfraujoch train.
If you would like to learn more about Jungfraujoch, check out our articles below:
Hiking around Kleine Scheidegg
Hiking in the Jungfrau region offers spectacular views of high alpine peaks, romantic waterfalls, glaciers, and more. Consequently, hiking is very popular at Kleine Scheidegg.
Here are some hikes that you can do from Kleine Scheidegg:
| Hiking Trail | Distance (in kilometers) |
|---|---|
| Kleine Scheidegg to Allmend (Lauberhorn Trail) | 6.1 km |
| Kleine Scheidegg to Wengen via Lauberhorn | 8.16 km |
| Kleine Scheidegg – Männlichen | 6 km |
| Kleine Scheidegg – Männlichen – Grindelwald (Panorama Trail) | 20.8 km |
| Kleine Scheidegg – Biglenalp – Wengernalp | 4.2 km |
| Kleine Scheidegg – Eiger Glacier | 2.47 km |
It’s possible to hike from Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg via Parwengi and Männlichen, or vice versa. This hike will give you a great view of Jungfrau mountain, a compact forest, and waterfalls in Grütschalp. The path in Parwengi goes up until Männlichen, which has fantastic views of the region.
It is best to go to Kleine Scheidegg on a clear day to see excellent views of the Bernese Alps. On a good day, Kleine Scheidegg offers breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
From Mannlichen, you can easily reach Kleine Scheidegg. The Panorama Trail from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg has amazing views of the steep rock faces and glaciers and is highly recommended.
Other options from Kleine Scheidegg include the Lauberhorn ski race site, the Eiger Gletscher train station, or Wengeneralp through Wixi (around two hours).
How to Get to Kleine Scheidegg
There are several ways to get to Kleine Scheidegg from Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, and Grindelwald. If you’re in Interlaken, you will have to go to Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald first before getting to Kleine Scheidegg.
Interlaken to Kleine Scheidegg
- Take the regional train from Interlaken Ost to Lauterbrunnen.
- In Lauterbrunnen, take the rack railway train to Kleine Scheidegg.
Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg
There are two ways to get from Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg. You can go via Grindelwald Terminal or Grindelwald.
- Option 1: Take the rack railway train from Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg
- Option 2: Take the Eiger Express from Grindelwald Terminal to Eiger Gletscher. Take the train from Eiger Gletscher to Kleine Scheidegg.
Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg
You can take the rack railway from Wengen village to Kleine Scheidegg.
Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg
You can take the rack railway from Lauterbrunnen village to Kleine Scheidegg.
How Long is the Train Ride to Kleine Scheidegg?
The following table shows the travel duration to Kleine Scheidegg (updated December 2023):
| Route to Kleine Scheidegg | Duration |
|---|---|
| Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg | 38 minutes |
| Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg | 22 minutes |
| Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg | 32 minutes |
| Grindelwald Terminal to Kleine Scheidegg via Eiger Gletscher | 38 minutes |
You can ride a comfortable bus from Zurich to Lauterbrunnen if you want an organized day trip. From there, you can take the cogwheel railway to Kleine Scheidegg Pass. Book this trip via GetYourGuide here: Zurich: Bus and Train Day Trip Through Kleine Scheidegg Pass.
Final Thoughts: Kleine Scheidegg
Kleine Scheidegg is a fantastic destination in Bernese Oberland and one of the best things to do if you are in the region. Whether you are staying in Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, or Wengen, visiting Kleine Scheidegg and enjoying its scenic hiking trails is a must.
Those who wish to do so can take the scenic train journey from Kleine Scheidegg up to Jungfraujoch, which is the highest railway station in Europe.
If you are coming in winter, Kleine Scheidegg is transformed into a skier’s paradise with its many ski slopes. Mountaineers will also find it interesting to visit Kleine Scheidegg, as it is the starting point to going up the challenging Eiger North Face.
If you love breathtaking alpine scenery, outdoor activities, and adventure, Kleine Scheidegg is a must-see.
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Darla Uhl is the owner of TouringSwitzerland.com. Her home is in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Having lived almost 20 years in Switzerland, she's traveled extensively all over the country.
Darla's favorite regions to visit in Switzerland include Engadin, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland, Ticino, and Valais. She loves spending time with her family, hiking, visiting museums, and reading books.