Highlight • Natural Monument
Steingletscher
Hiking
4.9
(43)
Steingletscher, also known as Stein Glacier, is a prominent natural monument and viewpoint situated at an elevation of 2473 meters at the top of the scenic Susten Pass. Located in the Urner Alps, in the easternmost part of Switzerland's canton of Bern, this impressive glacier is a key feature of the Bernese Oberland and the Haslital region. It is renowned for its dramatic glacial landscape, including the milky-white Steinsee lake, and offers breathtaking views of surrounding peaks like the imposing…
Tips
August 26, 2025
Hiking
Nearby routes
Best routes near Steingletscher
4.5
(15)
158
hikers
11.2km
05:29
900m
900m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(3)
94
hikers
14.0km
07:05
1,340m
1,340m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.8
(5)
26
hikers
3.10km
01:46
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,470 m
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the options for hiking trails around Steingletscher, especially for different skill levels?
Steingletscher offers a range of hiking options. For an easy and informative experience, the educational glacier trail features 15 panels detailing the glacier's dynamics and history, leading towards the glacier tongue. This path is relatively flat and accessible. For those seeking more challenging alpine pursuits, routes extend towards the Tierberglihütte mountain hut, which is located at 2795 meters and serves as a base for more strenuous treks. There are also various popular routes that allow you to get remarkably close to the glacier ice and observe its dramatic crevasses from a safe distance.
Are there any specific landmarks or natural features to look out for besides the glacier itself?
Absolutely! Beyond the impressive glacier, a key natural feature is the milky-white Steinsee (Steingletscher Lake), which formed as the glacier retreated after 1940. The surrounding landscape is characterized by breathtaking views of high moorlands, alpine meadows, and rugged mountains, with the imposing Sustenhorn peak providing a dramatic backdrop. The area is also known for an unusual abundance of wildlife, adding another layer to the natural experience.
What are the parking arrangements and public transport options for reaching Steingletscher?
Visitors have a couple of options for access. You can park at a free lot near the hotel on the main Susten Pass road, which requires a 2.7 km hike to reach the glacier. Alternatively, for a shorter walk, you can pay a small fee to drive up a private road, reducing the hike to approximately 1 km. Public transport is available via bus services that operate along the Susten Pass road during its open season, typically from June through October, making the glacier readily accessible.
Is Steingletscher suitable for a winter visit or winter hiking?
The Susten Pass road, which provides access to Steingletscher, is typically closed from late autumn through spring (November to May) due to heavy snow. Therefore, direct access for winter hiking is generally not possible. The best time to visit is during the summer and early autumn months (June through October) when the road is open and conditions are most favorable for exploration.
Are there any family-friendly or stroller/wheelchair accessible paths at Steingletscher?
Yes, Steingletscher is surprisingly accessible for families and those with mobility considerations. Parts of the trail leading towards the glacier are suitable for strollers and even wheelchairs, allowing many to witness the glacier up close without extensive hiking. The educational glacier trail is also a good option for families, offering an engaging experience for all ages.
Are dogs allowed on the trails around Steingletscher?
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in the Swiss Alps, including those around Steingletscher. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near grazing animals. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the pristine natural environment.
How long does it typically take to hike to the Steingletscher natural monument?
The duration of your hike depends on your starting point. If you park at the free lot near the hotel on the main road, the hike to the glacier is about 2.7 km and can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour each way, depending on your pace. If you opt to drive up the private road (for a fee), the hike is reduced to about 1 km, taking roughly 15-20 minutes each way to reach the glacier tongue.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter near Steingletscher?
The area around Steingletscher is known for an unusual abundance of wildlife. While specific sightings can vary, visitors might spot various alpine birds, marmots, or even chamois and ibex in the higher, more remote areas. The diverse alpine meadows and high moorlands provide a rich habitat for many species, adding an exciting element to your visit.
Are there any cafes or restaurants directly at or near Steingletscher?
Yes, there is a hotel located near the main road parking area, which typically includes dining facilities where you can find refreshments and meals. Additionally, the Tierberglihütte mountain hut, while a more strenuous hike away, also offers food and lodging for those venturing further into the alpine terrain.
What is the current state of the Steingletscher, and has it changed much over time?
Steingletscher, like many glaciers worldwide, has been significantly affected by climate change. While it experienced periods of advance in the early and late 20th century, it has been retreating substantially since the mid-20th century. During the Little Ice Age in the mid-19th century, it was about 1 km longer than its present size. The formation of the Steinsee after 1940 is a direct result of this retreat, and visitors often comment on the visible changes, noting its rapid recession.