Best Aare Gorge West Entrance Day Trips & Things to Do

Carved by the powerful Aare River over thousands of years, the gorge stretches 1,400 meters through towering limestone walls, with pathways winding beside the turquoise waters. Visitors enter near Innertkirchen and walk through narrow corridors where sunlight barely reaches, illuminated by the glow of rock crevices and rushing water. The well-maintained trail leads toward the east exit near Meiringen, close to the Reichenbach Falls - immortalized in Sherlock Holmes lore - and provides access to hiking routes in the Hasli Valley. Managed by the Swiss Academy of Sciences since 1928, the site balances preservation with accessibility, offering seasonal access typically from late April to November. Cool temperatures inside make it a refreshing escape even in summer, while winter's frozen cascades attract ice climbers and photographers. With clear signage, safe walkways, and breathtaking geology, the Aare Gorge stands as a compelling detour for travelers exploring the Bernese Oberland, blending raw nature with thoughtful infrastructure.