Aare Gorge

The Aare Gorge is a testament to the sheer power of nature. Over millennia, the Aare River, fed by glacial runoff from the surrounding Alps, carved its way through a limestone ridge, creating a narrow, deep ravine. Today, the gorge is a premier natural attraction in the Bernese Oberland, drawing visitors who wish to witness the striking contrast between the dark, towering rock walls and the vibrant, milky-turquoise water below.

The infrastructure of the gorge is a marvel in itself. A continuous path of wooden boardwalks, paved walkways, and short tunnels allows visitors to traverse the entire 1.4-kilometer length safely. The western half of the gorge is wider and more accessible, while the eastern half narrows significantly, bringing visitors thrillingly close to the rushing water. Whether you are a geology enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a family looking for an unforgettable walk, the Aare Gorge delivers a profound sense of awe.

Reasons to Visit

• Experience a stunning geological formation carved by glacial waters over thousands of years.
• Enjoy a highly accessible nature walk suitable for all ages, including strollers and wheelchairs on the western side.
• Capture incredible photographs of the turquoise Aare River contrasting with sheer limestone cliffs.
• Combine the visit with nearby attractions like the Reichenbach Falls, famous for its Sherlock Holmes connection.
• Witness the magical evening illuminations during the summer months.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid visiting during heavy rainstorms, as the paths can become slippery and visibility drops.
• Do not stray from the marked paths or climb on the wooden railings.
• Avoid peak midday hours during July and August if you prefer a quieter experience.
• Do not forget a light jacket, as the temperature inside the gorge is noticeably cooler than outside.

Local Transportation Tips

The Aare Gorge is exceptionally well-connected by local transport. The Meiringen-Innertkirchen Railway (MIB) runs parallel to the gorge, with dedicated stops at both the West Entrance (Aareschlucht West) and the East Entrance (Aareschlucht Ost). This allows visitors to walk the gorge in one direction and take the train back to their starting point. Additionally, the town of Meiringen is a major hub for PostBuses and the Zentralbahn railway, making it easy to reach from Interlaken or Lucerne.

Travel Etiquette

• Keep to the right on the walkways to allow others to pass easily.
• Keep dogs on a short leash to ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors.
• Dispose of all trash in designated bins at the entrances; do not drop anything into the gorge.
• Respect the natural environment by not picking plants or disturbing wildlife.

Recommended Age Group

The Aare Gorge is a versatile destination that caters to visitors of all ages, offering a safe and awe-inspiring natural experience.

• Babies (0-2 years): Recommended. The west entrance is stroller-friendly up to the middle of the gorge, making it easy for parents with infants.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. The safe walkways, tunnels, and rushing water make it an exciting and easy adventure for children.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The dramatic scenery provides great photography spots and unique geological features to explore.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. A relaxing, visually stunning nature walk that fits perfectly into a broader Swiss Alps itinerary.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The flat, well-maintained wooden walkways from the west entrance are highly accessible and require minimal physical exertion.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The West Entrance (Aareschlucht West) is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible up to the middle of the gorge.
• Accessible restrooms are available at the West Entrance.
• The East Entrance involves stairs and narrower paths, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs.
• Benches are located at various points along the wider sections of the path for resting.

Did You Know?

The Aare Gorge was first opened to the public in 1888. Before the wooden walkways were constructed, the gorge was considered impassable and was largely a mystery to the locals of Meiringen.

Cool Statistics

• Length of the gorge: 1.4 kilometers (0.87 miles).
• Depth of the gorge: Up to 200 meters (656 feet) in some places.
• Width at the narrowest point: Just 1 meter (3.2 feet).
• Time taken to carve the gorge: Approximately 10,000 years since the last Ice Age.