Geltenhütte SAC – Alpine Hut & Wildhorn Trekking Base

The Geltenhütte SAC is a classic alpine hut situated in the Wildhorn massif, above the Iffigsee, on the border between the Bernese Alps and the western Valais. It plays an important role as a stage hut for long-distance alpine trekking and as a base for moderate alpine ascents in a largely glaciated but accessible environment. The hut is valued for its balance between remoteness and approachability.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Wildhorn massif / Iffigsee area, Bernese Alps, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,002 m

  • Type: Serviced SAC alpine hut (with winter room)

  • Capacity: Approx. 55–60 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually June to October

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  Access is relatively straightforward and suitable for experienced hikers.

  • Main approaches:

    • From Iffigenalp / Iffigsee

    • From Lenk im Simmental (longer variant)

  • Hiking time: ~2.5–4 hours (route-dependent)

  • Elevation gain: ~600–900 m

  • Terrain: Alpine trails, pastures, rocky sections

  • Difficulty: T2–T3

  Early-season snowfields are common and should be considered.

• Facilities & Comfort

  The Geltenhütte offers solid, traditional SAC comfort.

  • Dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals during guarded season

  • Drinking water available

  • Indoor toilets

  • Electricity and lighting

  The winter room is basic and intended for autonomous use.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is calm and alpine, often quieter than huts closer to lift infrastructure.

  • Hearty Swiss alpine cuisine

  • Mix of trekkers and mountain hikers

  • Evenings tend to be relaxed and informal

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard SAC hut prices

  • Discounts: SAC member discounts apply

  • Booking: Recommended in summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Geltenhütte is well positioned for classic alpine itineraries:

  • Stage hut on the Tour du Wildhorn

  • Access routes toward the Wildhorn (3,248 m)

  • Connections to neighboring valleys and huts

  • Snowshoeing and ski touring routes in winter

  Glacier routes toward the Wildhorn require appropriate equipment and conditions.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September

  • Conditions: Generally stable but exposed to weather changes

  • Main risks: Fog, snowfields, sudden storms

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced hikers

  • Long-distance alpine trekkers

  • Ski tourers (winter/spring)

  • Not intended as a primary technical climbing base

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,002 m, the Geltenhütte SAC is less about altitude and more about connection—linking valleys, routes, and regions within the Wildhorn massif. Its role in long-distance trekking circuits and its quieter atmosphere make it a reliable and rewarding stop for hikers seeking classic alpine travel without extreme technical demands.