Thermal Canyon Walk

Route Description for Thermal Canyon Walk

If you are coming from Geneva or Lausanne, it is best to stay overnight in Leukerbad since there are a few destinations worth enjoying in this town. This is a physically easy hike with little elevation change, but note that you will be passing over metal catwalks and steep stairs over the river, which can be hazardous for unsupervised children or pets.

The start of the hike will take you through the town of Leukerbad. Starting from the Leukerbad bus station, follow the gps track through the town heading eastward. it’s a charming town, so feel free to explore a bit before heading out.

About half a kilometer into the walk, you will come across a lot with a path that leads to a curious small building – an old well where thermal water springs from. Keep following the track until it reaches a park-like area with a lot of trees about a kilometer into the hike. Here, stay close to the Dala River and follow it into the gorge.

The path will lead to metal catwalks that rise up the canyon wall over the river. The steel catwalk is 600m long, and it opened in 2004. The catwalks continue to a 35 m waterfall that rushes down a very narrow part of the canyon. Stop for a photo here.

Several flights of stairs take you up to a trail over the gorge, and a short foot bridge takes you to the other side of the canyon to a grassy area with some picnic tables.

From here, a trail leads back to town in an easy descent. Along the route you will see the mountains guarding Leukerbad to the north- Leeshorner (2,974 m), Daubenhorn (2,941 m), and Grosses Platenhorn (2,855 m).

Insider Hints for Thermal Canyon Walk

• On the way back to town you can eat at any of the numerous restaurants. Gilji’s Takeaway serves excellent burgers.
• If you like downhill biking, there is the nearby Leukerbad Bikepark to try.
• If you want a more strenuous hike, you can take the lift to Daubensee.
• Camping facilities are available at Camping SportArena Leukerbad.
• Leukerbad is known for its thermal spas, and you can find several in town for a soak after your hike.