Ski tour · Niederrickenbach · Brisenhaus
Glattigrat – Map, Topos and Route
The long ridge above the Brisenhaus is a proven destination for a ski touring day. On the way to the Glattigrat, the ascent to the hut and the wide open slopes change. The even work during the ascent also makes the tour a good place to practice trail building and steep turns.
- Difficulty
- WS− · Normal route
- Time required
- Approximately 3–4 hours ascent from Niederrickenbach
- Ascent
- Approximately 1050 m from Niederrickenbach
- Descent
- Kind of like ascending the base route
- Start
- Niederrickenbach or Brisenhaus
- Tour destination
- 2191 m
- Aspect
- North-West
Times and elevation gain are approximate figures for the route described. Allow additional time for variants, lift rides and the return journey.
Understand the line
Map and Topos
The maps and topos show the approach, key passages and descents in context. Open the original images to read small labels and save the maps offline before your tour.
Interactive ski touring map
Open the full-size map on swisstopo ↗
The lines drawn show the terrain. Determine the exact route based on current snow conditions, closures, and protection zone regulations; use an up-to-date topographic map for navigation.
From the starting point to the destination
Route description
Niederrickenbach – Brisenhaus
From the Niederrickenbach mountain station, over the wintery alpine terrain, to the Brisenhaus hut. On the shared map, distinguish the Glattigrat from Brisen and the other summit routes.
About the open slopes to the ridge
Climb above the hut over the vast northwestern slopes to the long Glattigrat. Choose the route so that the trail arrangement, slope inclination, and current avalanche situation all match together.
Back on the main route
The descent along the ascent leads to the Brisenhaus and on to Niederrickenbach. A detour to other peaks or into Couloirs is an additional decision regarding the tour.
The return is part of the tour
Descent and variants
The main route remains on the Niederrickenbacher side. The steeper lines around Brisen and Haldigrat visible on the area maps have different requirements. Plan a stopover at the Brisenhaus after its current operation.
What matters
Key points and planning
The Glattigrat is suitable for beginners in appropriate conditions for ski touring. Here too, an independent avalanche assessment is required; a heavily used trail is not a guarantee of safety.
Check the avalanche bulletin and weather forecast for the relevant elevations and aspects. Plan your timing around snow conditions, warming and lift operating hours. Existing tracks do not replace your own assessment.
Appropriate to the route and the conditions
Equipment and requirements
- Touring skis with climbing skins and suitable ski crampons; confidence in operating your bindings.
- An avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel for each person, plus practised companion-rescue skills.
- An up-to-date offline map, navigation tools, first-aid kit, bivouac bag and adequate warm and weatherproof clothing.
- Confident off-piste skiing, fitness and sufficient reserves for the entire route.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start from the Brisenhaus?
Yes. One night's stay shortens the subsequent ascent. The approximately 1050 meters of elevation mentioned here refer to the start in Niederrickenbach.
Are the steep corridors part of the normal route?
The main route leads over the open slopes to the Glattigrat and back on the same side. The adjacent couloirs are planned separately.
Traveling together
Glattigrat with mountain guides
Would you like to take this guided tour? When planning, we adjust the destination, route, and pace to your experience and the current conditions. You can request your preferred date through the ski touring offer.
