Tierberglihütte SAC – High-Alpine Hut & Steingletscher Traverse Base

The Tierberglihütte SAC is a classic high-alpine hut dramatically positioned above the Steingletscher, near the Susten Pass, on the Bern–Uri border. Known for its commanding glacier views and strategic placement, it serves primarily as a base for glacier ascents, high-alpine traverses, and ski mountaineering. More exposed and serious than nearby huts, it is a key reference point for experienced alpinists in the Susten region.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Steingletscher / Susten Pass area, Canton of Bern, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,795 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 50–55 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually mid-June to mid-September

    • Spring opening for ski touring (conditions dependent)

    • Winter room: accessible outside guarded periods

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  Access is fully high-alpine and condition-dependent.

  • Main approach: From the Susten Pass road / Steingletscher

  • Ascent time: ~4–5.5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~1,100–1,300 m

  • Terrain: Moraines, steep rocky sections, glacier travel near the hut

  • Difficulty: T4 / High-alpine

  Glacier equipment may be required depending on season and route.

• Facilities & Comfort

  Facilities are functional and adapted to serious alpine use.

  • Dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals during guarded season

  • Drinking water (managed supply)

  • Indoor toilets

  • Limited electricity

  The winter room is basic and intended for autonomous teams.

• Food & Atmosphere

  Focused, quiet, and expedition-oriented.

  • Energy-dense alpine meals

  • Clientele mainly composed of alpinists and ski tourers

  • Evenings centered on weather analysis and glacier conditions

  Early starts are the norm.

• Routes & Alpine Context

  The Tierberglihütte is a key base for:

  • Sustenhorn (3,502 m)

  • Tierberg (3,198 m)

  • Glacier routes on the Steingletscher

  • High-alpine traverses linking huts such as Sustlihütte, Grassenbiwak, and Sidelenhütte

  • Spring ski-mountaineering classics in the Susten region

  Full alpine and glacier equipment is required for most objectives.

• When to Go

  • Spring: March–May (ski touring)

  • Summer: July–early September (alpinism)

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

  Stable conditions and conservative planning are essential.

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced alpinists

  • Glacier and ski-mountaineering teams

  • Mountaineers planning high-alpine traverses

  • Not suitable for hikers or beginners

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,795 m, the Tierberglihütte SAC is one of the most strategically positioned glacier huts in Central Switzerland. Its elevation, proximity to major peaks, and direct access to the Steingletscher make it indispensable for ambitious alpine itineraries. For mountaineers who prioritize routes, flow, and commitment, it is a cornerstone hut of the Susten region.