Hiking in Switzerland - Massa Gorge

The Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps, has indeed experienced significant retreat in recent years, a trend observed in many other glaciers worldwide due to climate change. As a result of this retreat, traditional routes such as the Massa Gorge hike between Blatten and Riederalp, which once traversed the glacier, have become impassable or dangerous.
However, efforts have been made to maintain access to these iconic routes. In 2008, a new suspension bridge was constructed across the Massa Gorge, providing a thrilling and safe alternative for hikers to continue enjoying the hike between Blatten and Riederalp. This suspension bridge not only allows hikers to traverse the gorge but also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the retreating glacier.
Both sides of the gorge offer similar difficulty levels for hikers, ensuring that adventurers can choose their starting point based on convenience or preference without sacrificing the excitement of the hike. Whether starting from Blatten or Riederalp, hikers can expect a memorable experience as they explore the stunning natural beauty of the Swiss Alps.
The journey begins just behind Hotel Belalp, where hikers are greeted with a steep descent along rocky terrain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. As the trail progresses, the incline eases into a steady decline through a quintessential alpine setting. Along the way, hikers will encounter grazing cows and sheep, quaint huts typical of the region, and a diverse array of flora, adding to the picturesque charm of the hike.
As the trail winds its way towards the gorge, the landscape transitions into a more rugged terrain, marked by rocky outcrops and stony paths. Here, hikers can witness the remnants of the glacier that once dominated the area, serving as a poignant reminder of the ever-changing nature of the Alpine environment.
After descending to the trail's lowest point, hikers are greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of a majestic suspension bridge spanning 124 meters in length and towering 80 meters above the water below. For those who fear heights, this crossing may prove daunting. Once traversed, the path gently ascends, meandering through the scenic landscape, passing by the tranquil green lake and into the protected sanctuary of the Aletsch forest. This forest, nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch, holds an enchanting allure, showcasing the natural beauty of the Aletsch Region and the canton of Valais. The upward journey will take approximately 2 hours, leading adventurers to the trail's end at Riederfurka, where a different aspect of nature awaits to greet them.
www.belalp.ch/
www.aletscharena.ch/en/aletsc...
www.hotel-belalp.ch/
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