The Laucherenstock via the Messer is one of the most exciting combinations of mountain tour and alpine climbing tour in Central Switzerland. Airy climbing up the east ridge, the spectacularly exposed «knife-edge», and finally abseiling through the cave make the tour a truly memorable experience.
Facts
Ascent via the Rugghubel area
Even the approach is part of the experience. The route takes you up through the beautiful Rugghubel area towards Schlittchuechen. The first scrambling sections give you a taste of what’s to come.
The knife – the name says it all
The actual highlight begins at the east ridge. The climbing becomes more airy and exposed until we reach the Knife achieve.
The narrow and extremely exposed ridge is the crux and the defining experience of the tour. Technically, the climbing remains manageable with difficulties up to around the lower fourth grade - but for the mind, the razor-edge definitely feels like more.
The east ridge then continues on to the summit of the Laucherenstock.
Abseiling through the cave
The descent is also far from ordinary. On the north side, we descend to a cave and abseil through the cave. The route then leads through the south face back onto the hiking trail.
This keeps the trip varied from the first scramble to the last abseil.
Connect climbing and mountaineering
The Laucherenstock via the Messer is a brilliant combination of Mountain hike and alpine climbing tour. It is not just about individual climbing sections, but about moving safely and efficiently in alpine terrain.
Data
You can also book this tour privately on your preferred date.
Registration and further informationWho is the tour suitable for?
For sporty mountaineers with Surefootedness and a head for heights, who fancy more than a classic mountain hike.
The ridge is very exposed, so you should enjoy airy terrain. The technical climbing difficulties remain comparatively moderate.
Here is what you can expect:
✓ Ascent via the Rugghubel area
Scrambling towards Schlittchuechen
✓ Alpine climbing up to about the lower 4th grade
✓ Exposed climbing along the east ridge
✓ The spectacular «Knife» as a highlight
✓ Summit of the Laucherenstock
✓ Abseiling through the cave & south face
Cost
Group pitch
Travelling alone?
In a guided group on the scheduled date, you will get to know new tour partners, share the cost and enjoy the safety of a small group with 2 participants per mountain guide.
CHF 450.- / Person
(min. 2 people)
Included
✓ Organisation & Tour Planning
✓ Digital briefing before the tour
✓ Guided tour led by an IVBV mountain guide
✓ Tips on tech, equipment & route planning
✓ Photos from the tour
✓ Safety equipment for the group
✓ All of the guide's expenses
Not included
✗ Outward & return journey
✗ Brunni ticket (Half-Fare travelcard & GA valid)
✗ Personal equipment (can be hired)
Private tour
Would you like to experience the tour privately on your desired date?
With your own mountain guide you enjoy maximum freedom regarding pace, breaks and personal wishes – tailored individually to your needs.
1–2 people:
CHF 750 flat rate
Included
✓ Organisation & Tour Planning
✓ Digital briefing before the tour
✓ Guided tour led by an IVBV mountain guide
✓ Tips on tech, equipment & route planning
✓ Photos from the tour
✓ Safety equipment for the group
✓ All of the guide's expenses
Not included
✗ Outward & return journey
✗ Brunni ticket (Half-Fare travelcard & GA valid)
✗ Personal equipment (can be hired)
Questions
What technical and mental requirements do I need to meet?
You need good stamina for an alpine day tour and should feel comfortable in pathless, exposed scrambling terrain up to T5. You should be able to safely manage climbing sections in the fourth to low fifth grade of difficulty as a second. Some abseiling experience is an advantage.
What equipment do I need to bring?
Helmet and climbing harness
> 4 screwgate carabiners
Sewn sling, 120 cm
belay device and Prusik sling
Climbing shoes recommended – you'll usually climb faster and more relaxed with them
Comfortable walking or approach shoes
> Optional walking poles for the pathless approach
Snacks and plenty to drink
Half-Fare Travelcard or GA Travelcard
Card or cash for personal expenses
When and where are we starting?
We will meet in good time before 8:00 at the valley station of the Brunnibahn in Engelberg. At 8:00 we will take the first cable car. Please allow enough time beforehand to purchase a return ticket to Ristis. Half-Fare travelcards and GA travelcards are valid.
How long does the tour take?
The Laucherenstock East Ridge is an alpine day tour. The exact duration depends on the group, the conditions and the pace. Plan for the whole day. Catching the last cable car at 5 pm should be achievable...
Is the tour suitable for climbing beginners?
The tour is not a traditional rock climbing course. Prior experience in rock climbing and safely moving in pathless, exposed terrain are necessary. If you are unsure, we will discuss together before booking whether the tour is suitable for you.
Do I have to lead climb?
No. The climbing sections are climbed on second. You should nevertheless be able to manage the fourth grade of difficulty safely and with a little in reserve.
Why are climbing shoes recommended?
With climbing shoes, the more difficult rock sections can be climbed more precisely and with less effort. As a result, you are usually quicker and feel more comfortable on the climbing sections. For the approach and descent, you also need hiking shoes or approach shoes.
What happens in bad weather or unsuitable conditions?
The tour only takes place in suitable weather and mountain conditions. If the Laucherenstock is not reasonably or safely feasible, we will discuss a suitable alternative or a new date.
Enquire or book now:
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