Ski tour · Niederrickenbach · Nidwalden
Buochserhorn – Map, Topos and Route
Above Lake Vierwaldstättersee, the Buochserhorn stands as a free vantage point between the lake and the Alps. From Niederrickenbach, the ascent remains manageable. A descent to Beckenried or into the Engelberg Valley makes this a significantly longer undertaking and requires sufficient snow to travel all the way down.
- Difficulty
- WS− · from Niederrickenbach
- Time required
- Approximately 1½–2 hours ascent
- Ascent
- Approximately 650 m from Niederrickenbach
- Descent
- Approximately 650 m downhill · Valley variants longer
- Start
- Niederrickenbach
- Tour destination
- 1807 m
- Aspect
- Southward ascent · several descent routes
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 – Bleikigrat
By cable car from Dallenwil to Niederrickenbach. The ascent leads to the Bleikigrat. Decide early on the route whether you plan to return to the mountain station or take a downhill run.
Over the back to the summit
From Bleikigrat over the wide southern slope to the Buochserhorn. Wind can blow the upper part away; hard snow requires safe climbing techniques.
Return or descent down the hill
The return journey along the ascent route is the most straightforward option. The descents to Beckenried or Büren take place over different slopes and require a different level of orientation and snow conditions.
The return is part of the tour
Descent and variants
Up to Beckenried, around 1350 meters of descent add up from the summit. This number applies to the descent down the mountain, not to the return to Niederrickenbach. Pay attention to the lower terrain on fences, forest passages, and sufficient snow. Plan the return route in advance using public transportation.
What matters
Key points and planning
The view must not mislead you into thinking that alpine slopes can also be prone to avalanches. Evaluate the ridge, wind direction and the chosen descent route individually.
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
Is this a short ski tour?
From Niederrickenbach, the ascent is relatively short. A descent to Beckenried or Büren significantly increases the distance of the tour; for these variants, you need to plan your return journey separately.
Can I always drive to the lake?
For this to be possible, there must also be enough snow in the deep valleys. The snow conditions, fences, and the exit determine whether a descent into the valley is worthwhile.
Traveling together
Buochserhorn with mountain guide
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.
