Brisenhaus – Traditional Alpine Hut & Brisen Summit Base

The Brisenhaus is a traditional mountain hut located high above Wolfenschiessen, in the Canton of Nidwalden. Set on the slopes below the Brisen (2,404 m), it is best known as the classic base for the Brisen summit and as a rewarding destination for strong alpine hikers. The hut combines a demanding approach with wide panoramas over Central Switzerland, offering a genuine, non-glaciated alpine experience.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Brisen area / Nidwalden, Central Switzerland

  • Altitude: 1,753 m

  • Type: Mountain hut (seasonally served; non-SAC)

  • Capacity: Approx. 45–50 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: typically June to October (weather-dependent)

  • Management: Local mountain hut association

• Access & Approaches

  The approach is steep and physically demanding, though technically straightforward.

  • Main approach: From Wolfenschiessen

  • Hiking time: ~4–5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~1,200–1,400 m

  • Terrain: Steep forest trails, alpine meadows, rocky sections

  • Difficulty: T3

  Good fitness and sure-footedness are essential, especially on the upper slopes.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Comfort is traditional and well suited to multi-day hiking.

  • Dormitory-style sleeping with mattresses and blankets

  • Meals during the guarded season

  • Drinking water available

  • Basic toilets

  • Limited electricity

  The hut emphasizes simplicity, hospitality, and alpine atmosphere.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is warm and authentic.

  • Traditional Swiss mountain cuisine

  • Mix of summit hikers and overnight guests

  • Quiet evenings with expansive views over the valleys

  The Brisenhaus is known for its friendly, family-style welcome.

• Routes & Alpine Context

  The Brisenhaus is ideally placed for:

  • Brisen (2,404 m) – classic summit hike (non-technical)

  • High-alpine hikes in the Nidwalden Alps

  • Multi-day trekking routes across Central Switzerland

  • Autumn hiking and panoramic photography

  It is not intended for glacier travel or technical mountaineering.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September

  • Conditions: Hot lower approaches; exposed upper terrain

  • Main risks: Thunderstorms, fog, early autumn snow

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Strong and experienced hikers

  • Summit-oriented day hikers with an overnight stay

  • Trekking groups seeking classic Central Swiss routes

  • Visitors wanting altitude without glacier commitment

  • Not suitable for beginners or technical alpine objectives

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 1,753 m, the Brisenhaus rewards effort with wide-open views, a classic summit objective, and a deeply traditional hut atmosphere. It is a benchmark destination in Nidwalden for hikers who enjoy long ascents, quiet terrain, and the satisfaction of reaching a true alpine balcony above Central Switzerland.