Ski touring Chaiserstuel 2440 m
Contents
The Chaiserstuel is the most popular ski tour on the Bannalp and an ideal peak for beginners and leisurely ski tourers. After a pleasant ascent across wide slopes, a prominent peak awaits with fantastic views of the Uri Alps, the Brisen and the Engelberg valley.
The descent is either via the ascent route or down the sunny southern slopes. When there is enough snow, it is even possible to ski down to Oberrickenbach. Thanks to its easy navigation and varied terrain, the Chaiserstuel is one of Central Switzerland's classic routes.
Tour information
Region: Bannalp, Engelberg
Category: Ski Touring
Difficulty: ★★★☆☆☆ (3/6)
Season: December – March
Ascent: 700 hm
Departure: 1540 hm
Start Bannalp (1,713 m above sea level)
Summit Chaiserstuel (2,440 m a.s.l.)
Exposition: West / South
Highlights: Popular beginner ski tour, striking summit, magnificent view and long descent down to Oberrickenbach.
Route description
The starting point is the top station of the Bannalpbahn cable car. From there, the route leads via the Bannalper Schonegg and then over the broad south-east ridge on a gentle gradient to the summit of the Chaiserstuel.
The descent is either back along the ascent route to the Bannalp or via the extensive southern slopes. When snow conditions are good, a descent down to the valley to Oberrickenbach is even possible.
Highlights
- Most popular ski tour of the Bannalp
- Striking peak with 360-degree panorama
- Easy navigation
- Ideal for beginners and leisure ski tourers
- Long valley run with good snow conditions
Requirements
The tour is suitable for beginners and experienced ski mountaineers.
You should:
- be able to ski safely in deep snow
- mastering the first hairpin bends
- have experience with avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe
- have a normal level of basic fitness for around 700 metres of ascent
Hazards
The route runs predominantly over easy terrain. Nevertheless, the avalanche situation and snow conditions must be carefully assessed. The south-facing slopes can soften quickly in spring.
Out with a mountain guide
The Kaiserstuhl is a perfect tour for getting into ski touring or as a leisurely outing with magnificent views. As a local mountain guide, I will teach you the basics of ascent technique, track setting and avalanche assessment.
Depending on the conditions, I like to combine the tour with additional peaks or a long valley run down to Oberrickenbach.
FAQ
Is the Kaiserstuel suitable for beginners?
Yes. The Chaiserstuel is one of the most popular introductory ski tours in Central Switzerland and offers a technically straightforward ascent.
Can you ski down as far as Oberrickenbach?
Yes. With enough snow, a long and rewarding descent down to the valley to Oberrickenbach is possible.
Is the Bannalp cable car needed?
Highly recommended but not essential. However, taking the Bannalp cable car saves you around 800 vertical metres and allows you to enjoy the tour much more relaxed.
Similar tours
- Salistock ski tour
- Ski tour Wissigstock
- Brunni and Urirotstock ski tour
- Widderfeldstock ski tour
- Bannalp ski touring
- Urner Haute Route
