• • •

September 27, 2026

By Daniel Perret

Alpine hiking · Bannalp

Bietstöck

The distinctive shark fin above the Bannalp is climbed from the rear via steps and an exposed east ridge with a secure crack.

Difficulty
T5
Time required
about 3–4 hours
Distance
8.5 km
Ascent
663 hm
Descent
663 hm
Highest point
2’233 m
Starting point
Bannalp, 1’718 m
Season
July – October

From the Engelberg Valley Hiking Guide

The beautiful shark fin

Anyone who has been to the Bannalp will probably have noticed the Bietstöck. From the mountain station they almost fall right into your arms and it’s hard to believe that you can climb up from the back side in moderate difficulty. Over the partially exposed east ridge you reach the summit cross. The most difficult part of the climb is secured with a rope. The view is amazing! If you’re not yet tired, you can descend via the Chaiserstuel to Sinsgäuer Schonegg & return to Oberrickenbach with the two Buiräbähnli.

Step by step

Route description

01

Start at the Bannalp

From the mountain station, follow the trails towards Bannalper Schonegg.

02

On the back of the bid forms

Footprints lead to the less steep terrain behind the distinctive rock formation.

03

Over the eastern ridge

The partially exposed ridge requires safe footing and concentrated effort.

04

Secured key position

The most difficult crack point is equipped with a rope.

05

Return trip or extension

Downhill on the same route or long extension via Chaiserstuel and Sinsgäuer Schonegg.

Orientation map of the Bietstöck hike from Bannalp via trail markings and the eastern ridge
Authentic orientation section from the hiking guide with fully preserved trail markings, signs and waypoints. Click to enlarge.

Orientation

Overview Area Oberrickenbach–Bannalp–Brändlen

Combined overview map of the Oberrickenbach, Bannalp and Brändlen hiking area, with all the tours of the chapter
Combined double-page with all the hiking destinations in the chapter. Click to enlarge.

Appreciate realistically

Requirements

  • Comprehensive alpine experience for T5
  • Very good ground stability and absolute freedom from dizziness
  • Safe climbing on easy, exposed passages
  • Dry, stable conditions

Good to know

Information about the tour

  • The tour is significantly more challenging than the moderate terrain suggests.
  • The extension over Chaiserstuel changes length and logistics significantly.
  • Do not enter the east ridge in wet conditions or when visibility is uncertain.

Important: Check the weather, current trail conditions, and the operation of the required mountain railways immediately before the start.

Further goals

Similar hiking tours

More experiences in the Outdoor Guides

Engelberg Outdoor Guide

The multi-sport guidebook featuring tours covering all activities in the mountains around the Engelberg Valley.

Unterwalden.Outdoor.guide

Same concept as the Engelberg Outdoor Guide. Just a different region. The Nidwalden and Obwalden tourist regions

Engelberg.Wander.guide

Exciting walks around the Engelbgerteral. From easy to more challenging.

hikeandfly.guide

Hike & Fly tours of the Central Switzerland region. Naturally, the Engelberg Valley is also included.