Rising from the calm waters of Lake Zurich and framed by rolling pre-Alpine hills, First is a scenic mountain summit above the village of Grindelwald in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland. Easily reached by the Grindelwald–First gondola, this alpine playground sits at around 2,168 meters and delivers sweeping views of the Eiger’s north face, Wetterhorn, and surrounding glaciers. Travelers come for the First Cliff Walk by Tissot, a dramatic metal walkway clinging to the rock face, as well as hiking routes leading to the turquoise Bachalpsee, where the peaks reflect like a postcard. In winter, First transforms into a compact ski and snow activity area, while summer invites mountain carts, trottibikes, and fresh air adventures. Compact yet spectacular, First blends accessibility with high-alpine scenery, making it a memorable highlight of any Jungfrau Region itinerary.
Autumn is a quieter shoulder season marked by crisp air and golden alpine tones. Temperatures typically range from 0°C to 12°C (32°F-54°F), with cooler mornings and increasing chances of early snowfall by late October. Clear days often deliver far-reaching views across the Bernese Oberland, ideal for hiking and photography around Bachalpsee before winter closures begin. Visitor numbers drop after September, allowing unhurried time on the Cliff Walk and scenic trails above Grindelwald, while valley forests add warm color to the high-altitude backdrop.
Winter transforms First into a snowy playground within the Jungfrau ski region. Temperatures commonly range from -10°C to 2°C (14°F-36°F), and consistent snowfall supports skiing, snowboarding, and well-groomed sled runs. The gondola from Grindelwald runs regularly, offering access to panoramic terraces facing the Eiger and Wetterhorn. The First Cliff Walk remains a striking highlight when open, edged with frost and alpine light. Snowshoeing routes and winter hiking trails provide quieter alternatives, combining crisp mountain air with classic Swiss winter scenery.
Spring in First bridges winter and early alpine bloom. Temperatures at 2,168 m typically range from about -5°C to 8°C (23°F-46°F), with lingering snow through April and clearer hiking conditions emerging in May. Snowmelt feeds waterfalls above Grindelwald, and views of the Eiger north face feel especially crisp after fresh fronts. Early season visitors can combine late skiing with scenic walks as trails toward Bachalpsee gradually reopen. The First Cliff Walk by Tissot offers dramatic panoramas without peak summer crowds, making spring ideal for photographers and relaxed explorers.
Summer brings the most stable weather, with daytime temperatures often between 10°C and 18°C (50°F-64°F) at the summit, cooler than the valley below. Long daylight hours and generally clear mornings create prime conditions for hiking from First to Bachalpsee or onward to Schynige Platte. The Cliff Walk, First Flyer zip line, mountain carts, and trottibikes operate at full capacity, drawing families and adventure seekers. Wildflowers color alpine meadows, and the Grindelwald-First gondola provides easy access to sweeping Jungfrau Region views.
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FAQs about Grindelwald First Tours
How do I get to First from Grindelwald?
First is reached by the Grindelwald-First gondola cable car, which departs from the Grindelwald Firstbahn station in the village center. The ride takes about 25 minutes and runs year-round with seasonal maintenance breaks in late autumn and early spring. Grindelwald is accessible by train from Interlaken Ost in around 35 minutes via the Bernese Oberland Railway. Travelers planning a Jungfrau Region itinerary often combine First with Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, or Jungfraujoch for a full-day Swiss Alps experience.
Is the First Cliff Walk safe and worth visiting?
The First Cliff Walk by Tissot is a secured metal walkway attached to the rock face at 2,168 m. It is regularly maintained and open in suitable weather conditions, with free access included in the gondola visit. The platform and suspension section offer panoramic views of the Eiger, Wetterhorn, and surrounding peaks. It is considered safe for most visitors, including families, but those with severe vertigo may find parts challenging.
What activities can I do at First in summer and winter?
In summer, popular activities include hiking to Bachalpsee, the First Flyer zip line, mountain carts, and trottibikes. Trails are clearly marked and range from easy scenic walks to longer alpine routes. In winter, First becomes part of the Jungfrau Ski Region, offering skiing, snowboarding, sledging, and winter hiking. Snow conditions are generally reliable from December to March, depending on snowfall and altitude.
When is the best time to visit First for good weather?
The best weather in First is typically from June to September, when daytime temperatures average about 10°C-18°C (50°F-64°F) at the summit and hiking trails are largely snow-free. July and August offer the most stable conditions but also the highest visitor numbers. For fewer crowds and clear mountain views, many travelers prefer late June or September, which still provide favorable conditions for exploring the Swiss Alps and Bachalpsee.
Tour Code: 470959
Start CityParis
End CityVenice
Duration13 Days
LanguagesEnglish Live, Spanish Live
Tour Code: 345295
Tour Code: 184072
Tour Code: 671277
Tour Code: 170470
Tour Code: 184108
