Lidernenhütte SAC – Alpine Hut & Schwyz Alps Hiking Hub

The Lidernenhütte SAC is a popular and well-positioned alpine hut above Riemenstalden, in the Canton of Schwyz. Set on a scenic terrace at the edge of rugged limestone terrain, it is widely used as a hiking base, training hut, and family-friendly alpine destination. Thanks to its accessibility and varied surroundings, it bridges classic mountain hiking with more demanding alpine routes.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Riemenstalden / Schwyz Alps, Canton of Schwyz, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 1,727 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 65–70 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually May/June to October (weather-dependent)

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  One of the hut’s strengths is its easy and flexible access.

  • Primary access:

    • Small cable car from Riemenstalden Dorf to Chäppeliberg, followed by a hike

  • Hiking time: ~1.5–2.5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~400–600 m

  • Terrain: Well-marked alpine paths, meadows, limestone sections

  • Difficulty: T2–T3

  This makes the Lidernenhütte suitable for a wide range of visitors.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Comfort is above average for an alpine hut.

  • Dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals during guarded season

  • Drinking water available

  • Indoor toilets

  • Electricity and lighting

  The winter room is practical and commonly used by ski tourers.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is friendly, social, and family-oriented.

  • Traditional Swiss mountain cuisine

  • Popular with hikers, families, and alpine clubs

  • Lively on weekends; calmer during weekdays

  The terrace offers excellent views over the Schwyz Alps.

• Routes & Alpine Context

  The Lidernenhütte is an excellent base for:

  • Alpine hiking and circular routes in the Schwyz Alps

  • Scrambling and limestone climbing routes nearby

  • Training tours for alpine progression

  • Spring ski touring and snowshoeing

  • Multi-day treks linking huts such as Glattalphütte and Bockmattlihütte

  It is not intended for glacier travel or high-alpine 4,000 m objectives.

• When to Go

  • Best season: June to September

  • Spring/Winter: Ski touring and snowshoeing (conditions permitting)

  • Main risks: Fog, wet limestone, thunderstorms

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Hikers of all levels

  • Families with mountain experience

  • Alpine clubs and training groups

  • Ski tourers

  • Visitors seeking comfort with alpine character

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 1,727 m, the Lidernenhütte SAC is one of Central Switzerland’s most versatile and welcoming huts. Easy access, varied terrain, and strong SAC infrastructure make it ideal for learning, social mountain experiences, and relaxed multi-day itineraries—proof that alpine culture thrives well below the glacier zone.