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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
498 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
9.9 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3-4.5h
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

Arolla Glacier Trail

Arolla Glacier Trail
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Arolla Glacier Trail takes you to a viewpoint overlooking the glacier and surrounding mountains. The hike is easy enough for any reasonably fit person and even in summer there are no crowds in this relatively remote valley.

Route Description for Arolla Glacier Trail

The Arolla Glacier Trail is relatively easy, but as with any mountain hike, be prepared for sudden changes in weather. The trail becomes very rocky at the higher altitudes so wear appropriate footwear. Do not take any trail adjacent to the river, as the dam upstream releases water unpredictably which can cause the water level to rise very fast.

From Camp Arolla, you will see Mount L'Eveque and Glacier d'Arolla to the south. Cross the bridge from Camp Arolla, then take the trail on the other end that climbs up and veers to the left heading south along the valley. The trail will eventually join the road.

As you walk up the road, you will eventually come to a bridge that crosses the river near a small dam. Past the bridge, the road ends. Continue up the valley along a rocky footpath marked with white-red-white symbols painted on rocks.

The trail will zig zag upwards and southwards on the flanks of Mount La May. As you gain elevation, you will come across a bench by the trail. A few meters past the bench, the trail is cut by a big, rocky gully.

Cross the gully carefully and continue the trail on the other side. About a hundred meters past the gully, you will come across a marker with pictures of the glacier. At this point you’ll have a good view of the Glacier d’Arolla. The highest summits in view are L’ Eveque (3,716 m) to the south, La Sengla (3,714 m) to the southwest, and Pigne d'Arolla (3,796 m) to the west.

Although the trail continues a bit further, consider this your turnaround point and retrace your path back to Camp Arolla. The return hike provides you with great views down the valley.

As in the earlier warning, avoid any trails that will take you along the river level when below the dam. If in doubt just take the road

Insider Hints for Arolla Glacier Trail

  • Camp Arolla, which calls itself the highest campsite in Europe at 6398ft, is an ideal jumping off point for the glacier trail. Staying at this camp will let you get an early start to do the glacier trail and other nearby hikes.
  • There is a restaurant near Camp Arolla if you’re hungry on your hike.
  • If you fancy an easy hike, there is a trail to Lac Bleu which offers a family friendly excursion.

Getting to the Arolla Glacier Trail Trailhead

From Lausanne, take a train to Sion, then take a bus to Les Hauderes. From here, take a bus to Arolla. The entire trip takes about two and a half hours. Arolla is most accessible in summer as the roads to this village may be hard to drive to in winter. Driving to Arolla from Lausanne takes about two hours.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    June to September

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    Camp Arolla

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Arolla Glacier Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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