There is something about hiking in the Alps that feels a bit more civilized than hiking in the US. Maybe it is because, after a long day of hiking up mountain peaks, across streams and patches of snow, you can encounter a remote mountain hut, sit on the porch and have an ice cold drink while gazing on the beautiful scenery. There are hundreds of alpine huts spread across the Swiss Alps that seem to be popular hiking destinations. Not wanting to miss out on all the fun, we did a bit of research and found a hut in the Bernese Oberland section of the Alps that looked like a suitable weekend adventure.
The hike started at the opening of the Urbach valley (altitude 838m / 2750ft) and steadily climbed towards the Gauli glacier at the opposite end. The Gauli hut is located by the base of the glacier (altitude 2205m / 7250ft). Some quick subtraction identifies the biggest obstacle - 1367m / 4500ft of elevation gain in ~12km / ~7.5mi. Although the distance wasn't that long, it was 90% up hill, and not always on a nice wandering trail (yes, it was hard). There were times when we were literally scrambling up rocks, with only the white/red/white trail markings painted on rocks indicating we were heading in the right direction (Kate did not enjoy this scrambling bit - to scary!). Needless to say once we arrived we were exhausted and thankful for the cold beverages, warm food and decently comfortable beds. The place had solar power as well as a separate toilet hut (best view from a toilet so far, I might add!) The views were spectacular.
The hut was built in the late 1800s and is literally in the middle of nowhere. We ate dinner with the ~30 other guests that were spending the night then headed to bed in the dormitory (tight quarters). They also provided a nice breakfast before heading out the next morning. Very rustic but cute accommodations, and after a long day of hiking in the hot sun it felt rather "luxurious".
The hike down took just as long as the hike up, but worked a completely different set of muscles. Now we can see why hiking poles are so popular. Kate was feeling very fatigued overall and slipped 2x (not on any scary bits, thankfully). There was one bit where we walked along a ridge and there was a cable rope to provide extra security, which Kate gladly used. Kate did not like this part either! It was a rather difficult hike.
As with any Swiss hike, the obligatory mountain cows were also present on this trip... only this time we got up close and personal. Make way, hikers coming through!
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