Ski Touring Wengen
Ski touring is a backcountry discipline that blends uphill travel with off-piste downhill skiing. Unlike traditional alpine skiing, it involves climbing slopes using skins and touring bindings, making it ideal for those seeking untouched snow and quiet alpine terrain. The activity appeals to experienced skiers with a good level of fitness and knowledge of mountain conditions.
Ski Touring in Wengen
While Wengen itself is a popular base for downhill skiing, it also offers access to scenic and less-travelled routes for ski touring. Most tours begin from the top stations at Männlichen or Kleine Scheidegg, which are easily reached from Wengen by cable car or train. From there, touring routes extend across open alpine meadows and ridgelines toward Tschuggen, Lauberhorn, or even the Eiger Glacier area.
These routes are generally unmarked and not patrolled, making local knowledge or a certified mountain guide essential. Conditions vary depending on snowpack, avalanche risk, and weather. Wengen is particularly suited for day tours, with many routes offering panoramic views and quiet ascents above the busy pistes.
Regional Touring Possibilities
The wider Jungfrau Region offers more challenging multi-hour and multi-day ski touring routes. Areas such as the Schilthorn, the Eiger north face approaches, or deep powder terrain around Grindelwald attract experienced tourers from across Europe. Jungfraujoch, reachable by train from Wengen, provides access to high-altitude tours such as the classic run down the Lötschental valley.
Equipment Rental in Wengen
Specialized ski touring gear is available for rent at select shops in Wengen:
- Central Sport – Offers touring skis, skins, avalanche kits, and backpacks
- Intersport Wengen – Touring boots and safety gear upon request
- Mountain guide offices – Some tours include full equipment rental as part of the package
Advance reservation is strongly recommended, especially for avalanche safety equipment and high-demand periods.
Practical Info
The ski touring season typically runs from January to mid-April, depending on snow conditions and elevation. It is essential to check avalanche bulletins and weather forecasts before setting out. Guided tours can be arranged through certified guides based in Wengen, with options ranging from beginner-friendly tours to high alpine objectives.
Stay with Faern
Faern Victoria Lauberhorn is a comfortable and well-located base for ski tourers. With quick access to the Männlichen cable car and Kleine Scheidegg train line, guests can start their tour early and return to enjoy the hotel's spa, wellness area, and après-ski lounge after a day in the high alpine terrain.
