Mount First Gondola: Scenic Cable Car to First, Cliff Walk & Bachalpsee

Grindelwald•moderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

1–5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for average fitness; expect short uphill hiking sections and stairs on some viewpoints

Overview

Ride the gondola from Grindelwald to First for a 25-minute ascent to alpine panoramas, the First Cliff Walk, and a hike to Lake Bachalpsee. Accessible, family-friendly, and packed with seasonal activities, First is a compact alpine playground worth a half-day or more.

Mount First Gondola: Scenic Cable Car to First, Cliff Walk & Bachalpsee

Other

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

The gondola pulls away from the upper village of Grindelwald with the valley opening beneath you like a map. Windows frame a quick-change panorama: green meadows give way to craggy ridgelines and glaciers glinting at the horizon. In roughly 25 minutes you arrive at First (2,168 m), where the air feels thinner, the light cleaner and every path seems to point to a view.

Adventure Photos

Mount First Gondola: Scenic Cable Car to First, Cliff Walk & Bachalpsee photo 1

Adventure Tips

Scan and board quickly

Tickets are mobile-friendly—scan the single QR code per person at the gate to board; have phones charged and accessible.

Layer for rapid weather changes

Temperatures can drop quickly at 2,168 m—pack a windproof midlayer and a lightweight insulating layer.

Hydrate and pace to Bachalpsee

The hike to Bachalpsee is ~2.5 km one-way and can feel harder at altitude—drink water and allow 45–60 minutes each way.

Book activities separately on top

Seasonal attractions (First Flyer, mountain carts) are purchased at the summit—bring cash or a card and check opening dates.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Alpine marmot
Golden eagle (occasionally)

History

First became part of the Jungfrau tourism circuit in the 19th and 20th centuries as rail and cable technologies opened high alpine terrain to day visitors.

Conservation

High foot traffic around Bachalpsee causes trail erosion; stick to marked paths, pack out waste, and follow local guidelines to protect fragile alpine flora.