Northface Trail | Best Hike in Mürren for Eiger Views & Wildflowers

Last Updated on April 24, 2026 by Charlotte

Perched high above the sleepy mountain town of Mürren, the Northface Trail unveils some of the most breathtaking views in the Swiss Alps. My favorite thing about the Northface trail is how it winds through wildflower meadows, crosses crystal-clear streams, and is constantly framed by the most dramatic mountain backdrops throughout the whole trek. This well-loved route is a gentler alternative to the region’s more demanding hikes, welcoming trekkers of all abilities.

Daisies and yellow wildflowers in a summer meadow with traditional Swiss alpine huts and snow-covered peaks beyond, along the Mürren Northface Trail

Whether you take the easier point-to-point route or challenge yourself with the full loop, this guide will help you plan the perfect hike with route details, tips, and highlights from our own journey.

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From Meadows to Mountains: Our Morning on the Northface Trail

Our journey began in Mürren, a small town with sleepy mountain chalets overlooking Lauterbrunnen Valley. As we were looking for a more chill hike after several active days, we decided upon the point-to-point route via the Allmendhubel Funicular. Just steps along the trail from the Funicular summit station, we were met by full-on views of the mountains.

Male hiker with a daypack walking a gravel mountain path toward snow-covered peaks on the Northface Trail near Mürren, Switzerland

The gravel trail was wide and gently sloping, which made it easier to appreciate the scenery because we weren’t having to watch our feet with every step. The meadows along both sides of the trail were erupting with wildflowers. Dandelions and daisies, purple bell flowers, more species than I could count.

Uphill wildflower meadow with conifers and snow-streaked peaks beyond, along the Northface Trail above Mürren, Switzerland

In one particularly vibrant flower field, we were overcome with laughter at the sight of a doggie bouncing through the tall grasses like a deer. I don’t know if it belonged to a nearby farmer or another hiker, but it looked like the happiest dog in the world.

Crystal-clear alpine stream tumbling through a wildflower meadow below cliff faces on the Mürren Northface Trail

Throughout the meadows, icy mountain streams trickled down the hillsides and cut through the thickets of flowers. These streams are fed by melting snowpack and provide much-needed water to the plants and animals that live in these high alpine meadows.

Couple resting on the grass of an alpine meadow with the Bernese Alps spread out behind them on the Mürren Northface Trail

An hour or so into our way, we stop at a grassy bluff with an incredible viewpoint over the mountains for a quick break. We soaked in the fleeting moments of sunshine on our faces that filtered down in the brief breaks between the passing clouds.

The weather in the Alps can be unpredictable. Although the morning had started as a cloud-free blue sky day, we could now see thunderclouds building over the valley.

Female hiker with a blue daypack pausing to take in a vast wall of snow and rock on the North Face Trail above Mürren, Switzerland

At the furthest point of the trail, there is an optional detour to Sprutz Waterfall. We’d hoped to see this waterfall, but the weather seemed to be quickly turning. The first raindrops landed lightly, almost playfully, on our skin. Then, a low rumble echoed across the valley. We paused, hoping it was just a passing cloud. But with each minute, the thunder grew louder, rolling toward us like a slow-moving avalanche.

Spruce forest with a small wooden footbridge in a green valley below snow-dusted peaks on the Northface Trail near Mürren, Switzerland

About 2/3 of the way along the trail, we passed through some pine forests before re-emerging in a cow meadow. Thankfully, the cows were happy enough to munch on grass and leave us be.

Hiker following a narrow dirt trail toward a wooden alpine chalet with a snow-capped peak behind, on the Mürren Northface Trail

Soon, we found ourselves back in Mürren near the Schilthorn Cableway Station. We made it just in the nick of time to shelter from the rain in town. Our original plan had been to paraglide back down to Lauterbrunnen, and this was sadly cancelled.

Female hiker on a wide alpine path with dramatic clouds gathering over snow-capped peaks above Mürren, Switzerland

As we huddled under a café awning in Mürren, watching sheets of rain blur the valley, we couldn’t help but feel awed. The Northface Trail had given us golden sunshine, wildflower meadows, and a sudden storm that reminded us just how powerful these mountains are. It was an adventure in every sense of the word.

Now that you’ve seen the trail through our eyes, let’s get into the details to help you plan your own adventure!

Northface Trail Hike Details

The Northface Trail is one of the highest-rated hikes around the Lauterbrunnen valley, and rightly so. When done counter-clockwise, this trail is a relatively easy walk. There are two main variations of this trail: the easier point-to-point approach, or the full loop trail. The point-to-point route avoids most of the elevation gain that is found in the loop.

Northface Trail Point-to-Point Route

Length: 4.2 miles / 6.6 km
Elevation Gain: 419 ft / 127 m
Time Needed: 2.5 to 3 hours
Start Location: Allmendhubel Funicular Summit
End Location: Mürren
Suggested Hiking Direction: Counter-clockwise

Allmendhubel Funicular

A quick four-minute ride on the Allemendhubel Funicular connects the center of Murren to the start of the point-to-point Northface trail. At the Allemendhubel Summit, there are toilets, a restaurant, and a very neat playground for Children.

Hours of Operation: Journeys every 15 minutes from 09:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last uphill and downhill journey at 17:00 hrs
Fare Cost (2026):
- Adults: 16 CHF (Up and Down)
- Adults (One Way): 10 CHF
- Adults with a Swiss Half Fare Card 8 CHF
- Adults with Swiss Travel Pass: 8 CHF
Note: It is also possible to get to the start of the Northface Trail via the lift from Stechelberg; however, this has a higher cost

Northface Trail Loop Route

Length: 4.7 miles / 7.6 km
Elevation Gain: 1,089 ft / 331 m
Time Needed: ~3 hours
Start and End Location: Mürren
Suggested Hiking Direction: Counter-clockwise

Facilities and Trail Accessibility

Toilets

There are toilets available in the Murren train station, at the Allmendhubel Funicular summit, and at Schiltalp Hut, which is about an hour’s walk from Murren.

Accessibility

While much of the trail is along a graded gravel track, we do not think that either the point-to-point or the loop trail are suitable for families pushing their children in strollers, or for your granny who needs a walker. During our walk, we saw a family with a distressed toddler in a stroller who were struggling to carry the stroller past cow fences, and over tree roots on the more wild sections of the trail.

Luckily, those with decreased mobility can still enjoy the Flower Park at the summit of the Allmendhubel Funicular.

The Best Seasons to Hike the Northface Trail

The Summer season, from May through October, is considered the best time of the year to hike the Northface Trail. Keep in mind that snowpack and mud might still be lingering in May through early June.

The Best Time of Day

Morning is the safest bet for this hike. By afternoon, clouds often gather over the peaks, bringing sudden downpours or even lightning. With much of the trail exposed, being caught in a storm here is no small matter. Start early, keep an eye on the sky, and don’t hesitate to turn back if the clouds start closing in.

Tips for Your Visit

Based on our experience, here’s everything you need to know to make your Northface Trail adventure safe, comfortable, and memorable.

Before You Go

Download Offline Maps: Mobile coverage can be spotty on the trail. Download offline maps using apps like SwitzerlandMobility, Maps.me, or AllTrails.
Check the Weather Forecast: Alpine weather can change rapidly. Check forecasts the day before and the morning of your hike, and consider postponing if thunderstorms are predicted. The best weather source is MeteoSwiss, the official Swiss weather agency.

What to Pack for the Northface Trail

Proper Footwear: Trail runners or hiking boots with good traction are recommended, especially for sections with loose gravel or mud after rain.
Layers of Clothing: Even on sunny summer days, temperatures can drop suddenly at this elevation. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and warm layer.
Sun Protection: The alpine sun is intense. Bring sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and a hat.
Bug Repellent: Essential for keeping flies and mosquitoes at bay, particularly in flower-filled meadows and near streams. I got HUGE welts on my legs from bug bites along this trail.
Water and Snacks: Carry at least 1.5 liters of water per person. Pack energy-dense snacks like nuts, chocolate, and fruit for quick refueling.
Swiss Francs: Some mountain huts only accept cash, so bring Swiss Francs if you plan to stop for refreshments.

How to Get to Mürren from Lauterbrunnen

Mürren is a car-free town accessible via a scenic cable car and train journey from Lauterbrunnen.
If you’re unsure how to get there, check the SBB website for up-to-date transport options.

Woman in hiking clothes standing in a wildflower meadow gazing up at a snow-capped peak under blue skies on the Mürren North Face Trail

Was it worth the trip?

100% Yes! The Northface Trail easily ranks among my favorite hikes in the Lauterbrunnen area. What makes it so special is the perfect balance it strikes, delivering spectacular Alpine panoramas with relatively minimal effort. Unlike many mountain hikes that require technical skills or extreme fitness, this trail offers world-class views accessible to almost anyone willing to spend a few hours outdoors. The proximity to Mürren means you can finish your hike, and be enjoying a well-deserved coffee or beer at a charming café within minutes!

Ready to Plan Your Trip to Switzerland?

Check out our ultimate Switzerland Travel Guide for all the practical things you’ll need to know to plan your trip! Also, our 10-Day Switzerland Itinerary for Mountain Lovers covers all the best things to do on your next trip to Switzerland!