Hüfihütte SAC – High-Alpine Hut & Hüfi Glacier Base

The Hüfihütte SAC is a classic high-alpine hut perched above the Hüfigletscher in the Maderanertal (Canton of Uri). Remote and purpose-driven, it serves as a base for glacier travel, ski touring, and demanding alpine ascents in the Windgällen–Clariden sector. The atmosphere is quiet and focused, attracting experienced alpinists rather than casual hikers.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Maderanertal / Hüfi Glacier, Canton of Uri, Switzerland

  • Altitude: ≈ 2,334 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 40–45 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually mid-June to mid-September

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  Access is long and alpine, with serious terrain even before the glacier.

  • Main approach: From the Maderanertal (typically via Brunni/Etzlital routes)

  • Ascent time: ~5–6.5 hours (route-dependent)

  • Elevation gain: ~1,300–1,600 m

  • Terrain: Steep alpine paths, moraines, rocky steps; glacier proximity near the hut

  • Difficulty: T4

  Excellent fitness, sure-footedness, and solid route-finding are required.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Traditional SAC comfort, adapted to a remote setting.

  • Dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals during the guarded season

  • Drinking water (managed supply)

  • Indoor toilets

  • Limited electricity

  The winter room is basic and intended for fully autonomous parties.

• Food & Atmosphere

  Quiet, technical, and mountaineering-oriented.

  • Hearty alpine meals

  • Clientele primarily alpinists and ski tourers

  • Evenings focused on weather windows and glacier conditions

  Crowds are uncommon due to the demanding approach.

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard SAC hut prices

  • Discounts: SAC member discounts apply

  • Booking: Strongly recommended in summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Hüfihütte is a strategic base for:

  • Glacier routes on the Hüfigletscher

  • Ascents of nearby alpine peaks in the 3,000 m class

  • Spring ski-mountaineering tours in the Windgällen–Clariden area

  • High-alpine traverses linking Uri huts (conditions permitting)

  Full glacier equipment is required for most objectives.

• When to Go

  • Spring: March–May (ski touring)

  • Summer: July–early September (alpinism)

  • Main risks: Crevasses, rockfall, fog, rapid weather changes

  Stable forecasts and conservative planning are essential.

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced alpinists

  • Glacier and ski-mountaineering teams

  • Strong alpine hikers with high-mountain experience

  • Not suitable for beginners or casual hikers

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At around 2,334 m, the Hüfihütte SAC offers direct access to serious alpine terrain without the crowds of more famous regions. Its position above the Hüfi Glacier, combined with its isolation and classic SAC character, makes it a cornerstone hut for committed alpine journeys in Central Switzerland.