Day Hike

Oeschinensee

🇨🇭 Kandersteg, Berner Oberland

2Routes

About this guide

Restricted zone: since 2019 the south shore of the Oeschinensee and the delta at the head of the lake have been closed because of rockfall and debris flows from the unstable Spitze Stei; there is no path around the lake. The lake lies above Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, below the cliffs of the Blüemlisalp, in the UNESCO World Heritage area, and the municipality publishes the situation every week.

Difficulty: Panoramaweg: a yellow hiking trail suitable for strollers. Heuberg round: a white-red-white mountain trail for experienced hikers with a head for heights and very good stamina; hiking boots needed.
Season: Summer season until 8 November 2026. In winter the gondola runs and the path via Läger is prepared; an ice walk on the lake opens only when the operator lists it as open. Current status: Oeschinensee live status.
Getting there: Gondola from Kandersteg to the Oeschinen top station. Until 8 November 2026 a time slot must be booked for the ascent, also with a public-transport ticket. On foot from Kandersteg take the Grüenewald trail: the road above the Bärentritt is closed to pedestrians (Gemeinde Kandersteg).
Winter: From the top station the winter path via Läger leads to the lake (suitable for strollers); from Kandersteg only a snowshoe trail leads up.
Food & drink: Bergstübli at the top station; mountain restaurant on the lake shore (rowing boats); Berghaus Oberbärgli and Underbärgli on the Heuberg round, summer only.