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23 July 2026

By Daniel Perret

Ski tour · Untertrübsee · Alpelenwald · Arni-Alpelen

Alpelenspitz / Alpelenhörnli – Map, Topos and Route

The Alpelenspitz, also called Alpelenhörnli, is located above Untertrübsee. The ascent leads through the Alpelen forest to the open slopes of Arni-Alpelen. The proximity to Engelberg makes the tour well accessible; for the route through the forest, clearly defined winter routes apply.

Difficulty
Skitour within reach · Observe the permitted winter route
Time required
Approximately 2 hours of ascent from Untertrübsee
Ascent
Approximately 700–750 m above Untertrübsee
Descent
Corresponding to the starting point
Start
Untertrübsee · longer variant from Engelberg
Tour destination
Approximately 2020 m
Aspect
Mainly North and Northeast

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.

Alpelenspitz / Alpelenhörnli: Topography above Untertrübsee with the route through the Alpelenwald to Arni-Alpelen and to the summit area.
Topo above Untertrübsee with the route through the Alpelenwald to Arni-Alpelen and to the summit area.
Alpelenspitz / Alpelenhörnli: Overview map of Alpelenspitz / Alpelenhörnli. The permitted winter routes through the protected areas are decisive.
Overview map of Alpelenspitz / Alpelenhörnli. The permitted winter routes through the protected areas are decisive.

Alpelenspitz and Alpelenhörnli designate the same hiking destination above Untertrübsee. Different documents list slightly different altitudes of 2020 m; the existing topo labels the summit at 2024 m.

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

01

Untertrübsee – Forest access

From Untertrübsee in the direction of Gletti and to the intended access below the material train Stöck–Alpelen. Those starting in the valley must plan a total of approximately 1000 meters of ascent and the additional access.

02

Through the Alpelen Forest

Follow the open winter route to the area of the summer trail to Arni-Alpelen. Stay on the permitted path in the forest and follow the current signage in place.

03

Arni-Alpelen – Summit

From the forest into the open alpine area and in a wide arc towards the southern summit area. The topo shows the location of the line and the surrounding protection areas.

The return is part of the tour

Descent and variants

Back to Untertrübsee on the permitted winter routes in the ascent area. A descent into the valley requires a continuous layer of snow and an appropriate connection. Forest tracks and visible traces are not an invitation to take any liberties.

What matters

Key points and planning

The tour runs on the Untertrübsee and Titlis sides of Engelberg. Wild areas and the open route determine the course; night tours are not provided here. Even in the comparatively manageable terrain, avalanche conditions, visibility, and ability to ski down can be assessed.

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

Does this tour start in Brunni or in Ristis?

The Alpelenspitz of this description is reached from Untertrübsee through the Alpelenwald. It is located on the other side of the valley.

Are the ascent data calculated from Engelberg?

The approximately 700–750 meters of elevation gain refer to Untertrübsee. From the valley, a total of about 1000 meters of elevation gain must be climbed.

Traveling together

Alpelenspitz / Alpelenhörnli 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.

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