Planning a Swiss hut-to-hut hiking trip in May [closed]

I am planning a hut-to-hut hiking trip in May. However because that's still very early in the summer season, I am pretty sure that most high alpine huts will still be closed, and some mountain passes may be uncrossable.

What's a good itinerary in the Swiss Alps that would visit at least a few huts, be reasonably clear of snow in May, and spend a few days hiking through the Alps?

switzerland hiking

Best Answer

I highly recommend this website to look for touring options in the alps: http://www.alpenvereinaktiv.com/en/tours/

The website allows searching for everything from day-hikes to multi-day trips from hut to hut. The detail page for each tour lists the months that the hike is recommended for. There are some that are good for May, such as this one: http://www.alpenvereinaktiv.com/en/tour/piz-bernina-4049m-ueber-biancograt/11637047/

The descriptions are typically in German, so Google Translate is your friend.

As far as what time of the year the huts are open, The German Alpenverein lists that on their website for the huts that they support: https://www.alpenverein.de/DAV-Services/Huettensuche/

You'll also want to check the websites of the huts, since they usually list when they open for the year.

In general I would recommend Austria over Switzerland for an alpine tour, since there is a wider selection of options. Last August I spent 4 days hiking in the Dachsteingebirge outside of Salzburg, which was stunning. That included staying at the Simony Hut and Adamek Hut, and climbing to the top of Hoher Dachstein.

Pictures about "Planning a Swiss hut-to-hut hiking trip in May [closed]"

Planning a Swiss hut-to-hut hiking trip in May [closed] - Romantic young couple resting on wooden fence near blooming lush meadow and chatting during hiking trip in countryside

Planning a Swiss hut-to-hut hiking trip in May [closed] - Cheerful young couple in casual clothes laughing while setting up camping tent during romantic picnic in nature

Planning a Swiss hut-to-hut hiking trip in May [closed] - Loving young multiethnic couple holding hands while hiking on lake shore

Can you hike in Switzerland in March?

During March, you can also hike in the lowlands, along rivers, around lakes and through the countryside, unless we have a late snowstorm. However, trees will still be bare and the landscape rather brown until late April or mid May.

When should I hike in Switzerland?

If you're planning a trip to Switzerland, the best time to visit is July through mid-August, particularly if you want to hike. During this time, all trails and services in the Swiss alps are open and you have the best chance for good weather.

How should I dress for hiking in Switzerland?

What to wear when hiking in Switzerland

Hiking shoes.

Waterproof hiking boots.

Hiking pants.

Base layers.

Warm layers.

Sun protection.

Rain jacket.

Rain pants.

Do you have to pay to hike in Switzerland?

How much does hiking cost, and who pays? Apart from shortcuts such as cable cars and the occasional hiking hut break, the national sport is free for all hikers. The money for maintaining the network comes from the cantons and donations.

Hut to Hut Hiking In The Swiss Alps | Gspaltenhornhutte | Day 1

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Images: Kamaji Ogino, Vanessa Garcia, Vanessa Garcia, Uriel Mont