Wildhornhütte SAC – Alpine Hut & Wildhorn Massif Traverse Base

The Wildhornhütte SAC is a well-positioned alpine hut in the Wildhorn massif, on the boundary between the Bernese Alps and Valais. Known as a classic stage hut for long-distance crossings, it plays a central role on routes such as the Tour du Wildhorn and the Bernese–Valais high routes. Its appeal lies in its balance between accessibility, high-mountain scenery, and serious alpine context.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Wildhorn massif, Switzerland (Bernese Alps / Valais border)

  • Altitude: 2,302 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 65–70 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually mid-June to late September

    • Winter room: accessible outside the guarded season

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  Access is alpine hiking, with seasonal snowfields possible.

  • Main approaches:

    • From Iffigenalp (Bernese side)

    • From Lauenen / Lauenensee or Anzère (route-dependent)

  • Hiking time: ~3–4.5 hours

  • Elevation gain: ~700–1,100 m

  • Terrain: Alpine paths, scree, grassy slopes, occasional snowfields

  • Difficulty: T3

  Good fitness and sure-footedness are required, but no glacier travel is needed to reach the hut in summer.

• Facilities & Comfort

  The hut offers solid, traditional SAC comfort suitable for multi-day itineraries.

  • Dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals during the guarded season

  • Drinking water available

  • Indoor toilets

  • Electricity and lighting

  The winter room is basic and intended for autonomous use.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is friendly and international.

  • Hearty alpine meals

  • Mix of trekkers, hikers, and ski tourers

  • Evenings often social, especially on classic crossing routes

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard SAC hut prices

  • Discounts: SAC member discounts apply

  • Booking: Recommended, especially in summer

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Wildhornhütte is a key hub for:

  • Tour du Wildhorn (multi-day circuit)

  • Alpine crossings between Bernese Alps and Valais

  • Wildhorn (3,248 m) ascents (glacier travel required beyond the hut)

  • Spring ski touring routes across the massif

  Glacier equipment is required for summit ascents and some traverses.

• When to Go

  • Best season: July to September (hiking & traverses)

  • Spring: March–May (ski touring)

  • Main risks: Fog, snowfields, thunderstorms

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced hikers

  • Long-distance alpine trekkers

  • Ski tourers

  • Mountaineers targeting the Wildhorn

  • Not suitable for beginners without mountain experience

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,302 m, the Wildhornhütte SAC is defined by movement and connection. Its strategic position on classic crossings and its access to both hiking and glaciated terrain make it one of the most versatile huts in the Wildhorn region—ideal for those seeking multi-day alpine journeys rather than single-peak objectives.