Bannalper ski tour circular route
Contents
The Bannalp round tour is one of the finest circular tours in Central Switzerland. Thanks to the mountain railways on the Bannalp and in Oberrickenbach, many metres of altitude are saved, while long and varied descents ensure maximum skiing pleasure.
The route links several valleys and mountain railways to create an impressive circular tour. Along the way, you can expect scenic ascents, secluded winter landscapes and long descents. The tour is particularly rewarding in powder snow or safe spring snow conditions.
Tour information
Region: Bannalp, Engelberg
Category: Ski Touring
Difficulty: ★★★☆☆☆ (3/6)
Season: December – March
Ascent: 850 hm
Departure: 2,250 hm
Start Oberrickenbach (990 m above sea level)
Highest point: Sinsgäuer Schonegg (2250 m above sea level)
Exposition: All aspects (360°)
Highlights: Varied circular tour with two mountain railways, long descents, little ascent and an impressive winter landscape.
Route description
The circular tour starts in Oberrickenbach. You take the aerial cableway up to the Bannalp and then climb just around 500 vertical metres to the Bannalper Schonegg.
This is followed by a long descent to Oberalp or Gitschenen. After the second mountain railway ride, the second ascent begins via the Sinsgäuer Schonegg. From there, the final descent leads back to Oberrickenbach.
Highlights
- One of the finest circular tours in Central Switzerland
- Two long descents
- Little climbing thanks to mountain railways
- Varied landscape
- Ideal in powder snow or firn
Requirements
The tour is suitable for experienced ski mountaineers.
You should:
- be able to ski safely in deep snow
- Mastering switchbacks safely
- have experience with avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe
- have a good basic level of fitness for around 850 metres of ascent
Hazards
Although the ascent is technically straightforward, the descents lead through alpine terrain. Avalanche conditions and snowpack must be carefully assessed.
Out with a mountain guide
The Bannalper round tour depends on choosing the right route and the optimal timing of the mountain railways. As a local mountain guide, I know the best variations and adapt the tour to the current snow and avalanche conditions.
Depending on the conditions, additional peaks or variations can be integrated into the circular route.
FAQ
Is the Bannalp circular tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. Those who have already gained some initial experience on ski tours will find an ideal circular route here with little ascent and plenty of descent.
Which mountain railways are used?
The tour combines the Bannalp cable car and the Gitschenen aerial cableway.
Similar tours
- Ski tour up the Chaiserstuel
- Ski touring Laucherenstock
- Ski touring Ruchstock
- Titlis round trip
- Ski tour Wissigstock
- Bannalp ski touring
- Urner Haute Route
