Sidelenhütte SAC – Remote High-Alpine Hut & Sidelengletscher Base

The Sidelenhütte SAC is a small, serious high-alpine hut located above the Sidelengletscher in the Urner Alps, north of the Gotthard region. Isolated and largely free from mass tourism, it serves as a staging point for glacier ascents and traverses on peaks such as the Sidelhorn and neighboring summits. This is a hut intended for experienced alpinists who value commitment and quiet terrain.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Sidelengletscher, Urner Alps, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,708 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 40–45 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually June to September

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  Approaches are alpine and often involve snow or glacier terrain depending on season.

  • Main approach: From the Göscheneralp area

  • Ascent time: ~4.5–5.5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~1,100–1,300 m

  • Terrain: Alpine paths, moraines, snowfields; glacier proximity near the hut

  • Difficulty: T3–T4

  Early-season snow and late-season ice can significantly increase difficulty.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Comfort is traditional and functional.

  • 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 requires full autonomy.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is quiet and purpose-driven.

  • Hearty alpine meals

  • Clientele composed mainly of alpinists and ski tourers

  • Evenings focused on weather, glacier conditions, and early starts

  Crowds are uncommon, even in peak season.

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard SAC hut prices

  • Discounts: SAC member discounts apply

  • Booking: Recommended during summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Sidelenhütte is well placed for:

  • Sidelhorn (2,764 m) and nearby glacier peaks

  • Alpine ascents in the Sidelengletscher basin

  • High-alpine ski tours in spring

  • Link-ups toward other Urner Alps huts (conditions permitting)

  Glacier equipment may be required depending on route and season.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September (alpinism)

  • Spring: Ski touring (March–May)

  • Main risks: Crevasses, rapid weather changes, isolation

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced alpine hikers

  • Mountaineers

  • Ski tourers

  • Visitors seeking quiet, less commercial alpine terrain

  • Not suitable for beginners without alpine experience

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,708 m, the Sidelenhütte SAC represents a more understated side of Swiss alpinism—remote, functional, and deeply connected to glacier travel in the Urner Alps. Its isolation and strategic position above the Sidelengletscher make it a valuable base for those seeking serious alpine objectives without crowds.