Salbitschijenbiwak SAC – High-Alpine Bivouac & Salbitschijen Ridge Base

The Salbitschijenbiwak SAC is a small and exposed high-alpine bivouac located high above Gadmen, directly beneath the spectacular ridges of the Salbitschijen. Positioned well above the Salbithütte, it is designed exclusively for experienced alpinists and climbers tackling long ridge traverses and committing granite routes. This is a shelter of necessity rather than comfort, intended to support early starts and multi-day alpine objectives.

• Bivouac Overview

  • Location: Salbitschijen massif / Gadmen valley, Canton of Bern, Switzerland

  • Altitude: ≈ 2,700 m

  • Type: High-alpine bivouac (unserviced)

  • Capacity: Approx. 8–10 sleeping places

  • Season: Typically July to September (conditions dependent)

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  Access to the Salbitschijenbiwak is fully alpine and exposed.

  • Main approach: From the Salbithütte SAC, continuing upward on alpine terrain

  • Ascent time (from Salbithütte): ~2–3 hours

  • Terrain: Steep rock slabs, scrambling sections, exposed traverses

  • Difficulty: T5 / Alpine (AD, route-dependent)

  Sure-footedness, route-finding ability, and confidence on exposed granite are mandatory.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Facilities are extremely minimal.

  • Simple sleeping platforms

  • No catering or food

  • No running water (snowmelt only)

  • No electricity or heating

  All users must be fully self-sufficient, carrying food, stove, fuel, and emergency equipment.

• Atmosphere

  Focused, silent, and highly technical.

  • Used almost exclusively by climbers

  • Nights are short, with departures often before dawn

  • Rarely crowded due to demanding access

  This bivouac exists solely to support serious alpine routes.

• Alpine Context & Routes

  The Salbitschijenbiwak is a strategic base for:

  • The Salbitschijen West, South, and East ridges

  • Long granite ridge traverses

  • Multi-pitch alpine rock routes

  • Linking climbs that would be impractical from the valley

  Glacier travel is generally not required, but alpine climbing competence is essential.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to early September

  • Main risks: Exposure, rockfall, storms, difficult retreat

  Stable weather and conservative planning are critical.

• Who Is This Bivouac For

  • Experienced alpine climbers

  • Teams on committing ridge traverses

  • Not suitable for hikers, beginners, or casual overnights

Why This Bivouac Matters

At around 2,700 m, the Salbitschijenbiwak SAC is inseparable from the identity of the Salbitschijen itself. Its value lies in position and efficiency, enabling classic alpine lines that demand altitude, proximity, and early starts. It is a bivouac defined by commitment, exposure, and pure alpine intent.