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Kleine Scheidegg is one of the most famous mountain passes in the Swiss Alps, both for its impressive views and its location. Furthermore, it is one of the highest mountain passes in Bernese Oberland.
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 spectacular and challenging Eiger North Face is visible from Kleine Scheidegg. There have been several fatalities on this face in the past. Yet, climbers find it incredibly fascinating, and this mountain will never run out of people who want to test their skills.
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
Kleine Scheidegg railway station is where Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen trains meet. It is also the downstream terminus of the Jungfrau railway, which climbs steeply through tunnels in the Eiger and Mönch mountains to the 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 |
You can walk this path either way, depending on your needs and preferences.
It is best to go to Kleine Scheidegg on a clear day in order to see excellent views of the Bernese Alps. On a good day, Kleine Scheidegg offers breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
How to Get to Kleine Scheidegg
If you decide to take the train to Kleine Scheidegg, you have two options:
- Option 1: Take the train from Lauterbrunnen or Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg. It takes 38 minutes from Lauterbrunnen to Kleine Scheidegg.
- Option 2: Take the train from Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg. It takes 32 minutes from Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg.
If you’re in Interlaken, you will have to go to Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald first before getting to Kleine Scheidegg.
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.
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