Ski tour · Engelberg · Hahnen-West side
Zeblen – Map, Topos and Route
At the foot of the Hahnen lies a ski tour directly above Engelberg. The forest provides structure for the lower ascent; from above, the slopes open up. With suitable snow conditions, a beautiful descent is created; steeper sections and the proximity to the protected area require a conscious route choice.
- Difficulty
- WS+ · sometimes around 34°
- Time required
- Approximately 2–2½ hours ascent
- Ascent
- Approximately 880 m above Engelberg
- Descent
- Approximately 880 m
- Start
- Engelberg · Access via Waldstrasse
- Tour destination
- Tour destination Zieblen 1909 m
- Aspect
- West and Northwest
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.
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
Engelberg – Waldstrasse
From the valley on the designated access road to the forest road. Follow the current winter routes and the signage; the forest is not an area for arbitrary shortcuts.
Unter and Ober Zieblen
Climb up from Unter Zieblen to Ober Zieblen. Above the forest, assess the slopes and their catchment areas. The overview map shows the access routes and the downhill areas under the Hahnen.
To the tour destination
Due to the open terrain, the goal is at around 1909 m. The steeper sections require a clean track and safe turns at the top. The Hahnen summit is not part of this ski tour.
The return is part of the tour
Descent and variants
The return generally follows the ascent route. The descent via the Ziebelfall is a variant whose entry, snow cover and permissible line must be checked separately. In the lower part, use the permitted forest access route again.
What matters
Key points and planning
Skiing in the backcountry is not a blanket solution for bad weather or increased avalanche danger. The open slopes sometimes reach around 34° elevation gain. Observe the protection zone edge at Hahnen and the permitted routes.
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
Is the Ziegelen tour a pure beginners' tour?
The tour includes steeper slopes and requires safe skiing techniques, precise turns and an assessment of the avalanche situation.
Can you drive off freely in the forest?
The planned winter routes and the protection area rules determine the permitted course of travel. Avoid shortcuts through the forest.
Traveling together
Hiking with a 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.
