How to Prepare to Hike the Swiss Alps
Switzerland –most democratic country in the world, one of highest standards of living – one of most environmentally friendly – But for hikers, the appeal is scenery - one of the most beautiful countries in the world
Getting in shape physically to hike the Alps – If you can hike the Wasatch Mtns, you can hike the Alps.
Climate: Humid? Dry? Raining? Muddy?
Hiking a way of life in the Alps
History, culture, traditions, Heidi story
What makes Switzerland one of the best hiking destinations in the world?
When to go – great year round destination, but snow blocks most of high mountain passes into July. –Best hiking is in July and August, and even the first couple weeks of September, long days
Packing, electrical conversion
Getting there – flights, airports, fares
Ground transportation (Trains, private transportation, postbus, rental car, etc.)
Swisspass, Swiss card
Currency exchange, Swiss franc, doing business,
Where to stay (hotels, mountain huts, hostels)
What to wear (layers, hat, jacket), Raingear, Shoes, Trekking poles
Navigation (GPS, Compass, Maps, guidebooks)
Local terms (alpenweg, bergweg)
Mountain transportation (gondolas, funicular, tram, lift, cogwheel railway)
Dayhikes vs trekking
Elevation gains, distances, length of day, typical day
Picking your route, (uphill, down, length, preferred destination, lakes, views, etc)
Hiking Regions (Pennine Alps, Jungfrau )
Hiking Centers: Zermatt , Grindelwald, Arolla, Murren, Wengen, Lauterbrunnen
Sample hike 1– Gorner Glacier / Sample hike 2 – Eiger trail
Other activities (mountaineering, cycling, paragliding, whitewater rafting)
Other sights (Trummelbach falls, Staubbach falls, Jungfraujoch, Festivals, cowfights, cheese, pastry)
