Wildstrubelhütte SAC – High-Alpine Hut & Plaine Morte Traverse Base

The Wildstrubelhütte SAC is a strategically positioned high-alpine hut in the Wildstrubel massif, overlooking the vast Plaine Morte Glacier. Sitting on the border between the Bernese Alps and Valais, it is a key stage and traverse hut for classic crossings between Crans-Montana, Adelboden, and Lenk, as well as a base for glacier travel and ski mountaineering. Its setting combines wide glacial panoramas with long, committing approaches.

• Hut Overview

  • Location: Wildstrubel massif / Plaine Morte Glacier, Switzerland

  • Altitude: 2,790 m

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

  • Capacity: Approx. 90–95 sleeping places

  • Season:

    • Guarded: usually mid-June to late September and spring (ski touring)

    • Winter room: accessible outside guarded periods

  • Managed by: Swiss Alpine Club (SAC)

• Access & Approaches

  Access depends strongly on season and chosen route.

  • Main approaches (summer):

    • From Crans-Montana via the Plaine Morte area

    • From Adelboden or Lenk via long alpine routes

  • Ascent time: ~4.5–6 hours (route-dependent)

  • Elevation gain: ~1,100–1,400 m

  • Terrain: Alpine paths, moraines, glacier sections (route- and season-dependent)

  • Difficulty: T3–T4 / High-alpine (season-dependent)

  In spring, access is typically by ski touring with glacier travel.

• Facilities & Comfort

  The hut is large and well equipped for multi-day itineraries.

  • Dormitories with mattresses and blankets

  • Half-board meals during guarded season

  • Drinking water (managed supply)

  • Indoor toilets

  • Electricity and lighting

  The winter room is functional and intended for autonomous use.

• Food & Atmosphere

  The atmosphere is open and international.

  • Hearty alpine meals

  • Mix of trekkers, alpinists, and ski tourers

  • Evenings often social, especially on classic crossing routes

  Despite its size, the hut retains a strong high-mountain character.

• Prices & Booking

  • Rates: Standard SAC hut prices

  • Discounts: SAC member discounts apply

  • Booking: Recommended, often essential in peak summer and spring ski season

  • Payment: Cash preferred

• Best Routes From the Hut

  The Wildstrubelhütte is a major hub for:

  • Crossings over the Plaine Morte Glacier

  • Routes linking Crans-Montana – Adelboden – Lenk

  • Ascents of Wildstrubel (3,244 m) and neighboring peaks

  • Spring ski-mountaineering traverses in the Wildstrubel massif

  Glacier equipment is required for summit routes and many traverses.

• When to Go

  • Spring: March–May (ski touring, glacier crossings)

  • Summer: July–September (alpine hiking & alpinism)

  • Main risks: Crevasses, whiteouts on the Plaine Morte, storms

  Good visibility and stable weather are essential due to the glacier’s scale.

• Who Is This Hut For

  • Experienced alpine hikers

  • Glacier-traverse teams

  • Ski tourers

  • Mountaineers targeting the Wildstrubel

  • Not suitable for beginners without alpine or glacier experience

Why This Hut Is Worth Visiting

At 2,790 m, the Wildstrubelhütte SAC is defined by scale and connectivity. Few huts sit so directly above such an extensive glacier while remaining integrated into classic multi-day routes. Whether approached on foot or skis, it offers one of the most impressive high-plateau alpine experiences in Switzerland.