Snowshoe tour to Alp Sellamatt

There is simply no need for superlatives when it comes to Alp Sellamatt, which stands around 1,500 metres high with the Alpstein region to the north and the seven Churfirsten peaks with their iconic silhouettes to the south. All of this offers one breathtaking view after the other. You’ll have your eyes fixed on the striking peaks of Chäserrugg (2,260 m), Hinderrugg (2,306 m), Schibenstoll (2,234 m) Zuestoll (2,234 m), Brisi (2,277 m), Frümsel (2,266 m) and Selun (2,204 m) as you slip into your snowshoes at the Selamatt lift station.

Sellamatt-Zinggen trail

The Sellamatt-Zinggen trail makes a big loop around Alp Sellamatt – a rambling high plateau that is located halfway between the valley and summits of the Churfirsten mountain range. Once the snow has wrapped the stunning landscape in a crystalline blanket of white, a magnificent sense of serenity settles over the area. The only sound is the wind that rustles through the ancient spruce trees, the cawing nutcrackers wrangling for fir cone seeds or the distinctive whistles of alpine chough searching for nourishment at lower elevations in mid-winter.

The right shoes for snowshoeing

Snowshoes are secured to your boots with straps or loops. In principle, therefore, you could venture out in a normal hiking boot with a sturdy sole. These should be at least ankle-high and waterproof, however. Otherwise you’ll soon feel the damp seeping in and you’ll end up with wet feet. Special winter models are cut higher, feature a thick lining, and help keep your toes nice and warm.

If you want to stop snow from getting into your shoes, we recommend wearing trousers with a snow guard or gaiters. And if you think even a winter shoe might not be warm enough, why not add an insulation sole? But don’t overdo it because you don’t want your feet to break out in a sweat when the going gets tough.

Your packing list for snowshoeing