The Ultimate Mürren Via Ferrata Guide with everything you need to know

Looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure in the Swiss Alps? The Via Ferrata Mürren-Gimmelwald is a 1.4-mile (2.2 km) route starting in the mountain village of Murren at an altitude 5,400ft (1,638 m) and ending at Gimmelwald at 4,400 ft (1,367 m).

This stunning route, located in the idyllic car-free village of Mürren, offers a unique alpine experience with breathtaking views and heart-stopping moments. Below, I break down everything you need to know about tackling this exciting route, the kit you need, where to start and all the other information you may need.

Standing on the edge of the Murren Via Ferrata

Starting Point

The Mürren Via Ferrata starts just outside the village of Mürren. The official trailhead is a short walk from the Intersports shop where you can hire gear from.

From there, it’s a short walk to the start of the first section with a combination of hiking and traversing steel cables attached to the cliffside.

The Mürren Via Ferrata ends in the picturesque village of Gimmelwald, a quieter and smaller mountain settlement nestled on the cliffs below Mürren. Once you finish the route, you can take the cable car back up to Mürren or continue your adventure by exploring Gimmelwald and the surrounding hiking trails, cafes and restaurants.

How long is the Via Ferrata?

The entire Mürren Via Ferrata is 2.2km in length. While most of the route is an exhilarating journey along cliff faces and narrow ledges, there are several sections that feel more like a traditional hiking trail through forest and past waterfalls, allowing you to catch your breath and enjoy the scenery. Expect a mix of via ferrata-specific challenges including ladders, steep descents and gentler walking paths.

How long does it take?

On average, the Mürren Via Ferrata takes between 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and experience level. While experienced climbers may zip through the route, it's best to take your time and savour the incredible views over the Lauterbrunnen Valley. The more thrilling parts of the route, including a vertigo-inducing suspension bridge (where we experienced clues) and a daring zipline (if you’re with a guide), make this a memorable experience.

How difficult is the Mürren Via Ferrata?

The Mürren Via Ferrata is rated as a K3 difficulty on a scale from K1 (easy) to K6 (extremely difficult). This makes it accessible for most people with a reasonable level of fitness, though the route does require a head for heights and confidence with heights. If this is your first time on a Via Ferrata, I highly recommend that you take a guide (more on that below) to learn the ropes and ensure your safety.

How much does it cost?

The Mürren Via Ferrata is free to use, which is an incredible perk for such a thrilling experience! However, you'll need to factor in the cost of transportation to and from Mürren, including the Schilthornbahn cable car (return tickets from Stechelberg to Mürren cost around CHF 20-35). You'll also need to hire equipment if you don’t have your own (see the "Hiring Kit" section below). The hire kit costs around CHF 30 and that includes a helmet, harness and Via Ferreta rope kit. If you’re looking to get your own kit, I recommend Decathlon as a good place to start for afforable kit. I have this rope system, this helmet and this harness which I wore on my trip along the route.

Hiring a guide

When Hayden and I did this route, we didn’t take a guide however I strongly recommend it if this is your first time attempting a via ferrata route. A guide will not only teach you the basics of using the equipment but also help you navigate the more challenging sections of the route safely. Engaging in via ferrata is generally safe, but it can become extremely hazardous if you make errors in setting up your equipment or panic while on the cliffs. Local guiding companies in Mürren and Lauterbrunnen offer guided tours, with prices typically ranging from CHF 100-170 per person. Here is just one example of a guide.

How to get there

Since Mürren is a car-free village, you'll need to use a combination of transport options to reach the starting point of the via ferrata.

By Car: Drive to Schilthornbahn, both of which have ample parking. From Stechelberg, take the Schilthornbahn cable car to Mürren. From Lauterbrunnen, either take the cable car to Grütschalp followed by a scenic train ride to Mürren or the funicular and train combo from Interlaken.
By public transport: From Interlaken, take a train to Lauterbrunnen. From there, follow the steps above to reach Mürren via cable car or train.

Parking

Schilthornbahn: Paid parking is available at the cable car station with plenty of spaces. Cost was free for the day.
Lauterbrunnen: A large, paid parking garage is located near the train station, ideal for day trips

About Mürren

Mürren is an enchanting alpine village, known for its tranquil atmosphere, traditional Swiss charm, and jaw-dropping views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. With its traffic-free streets, you can stroll around at your leisure before or after your via ferrata adventure. The village offers plenty of options for dining, accommodation, and shopping for outdoor gear.

The Cable Car

The Schilthornbahn cable car connects the valley floor at Stechelberg with the villages of Gimmelwald, Mürren, and the famous Schilthorn. The ride itself is a scenic highlight, offering sweeping views over the Lauterbrunnen Valley. You can purchase tickets at the station or online, with prices ranging from CHF 24-35 for a return trip.

Hiring Kit

If you don’t have your own equipment, you can rent the necessary kit from shops in Mürren or Lauterbrunnen. The essential gear includes:

A via ferrata harness
A helmet
A lanyard with carabiners designed specifically for via ferrata

Equipment hire costs around CHF 20-40 per day. We hired from the Intersports shop which is very close to the start of the trail.

Final Tips

Start early to avoid crowds and give yourself plenty of daylight. The route is a single track in most parts making it hard to overtake.
Check the weather before setting off; the route should be avoided in poor conditions as the steel cables can become slippery. It is also very exposed to the wind, so a windproof layer is key.
Wear appropriate clothing: Layer up, as alpine weather can be unpredictable, and bring a lightweight waterproof jacket in case of rain.
Hydrate and pack snacks: Although the route isn’t particularly long, you’ll want to keep your energy levels up, especially during the more strenuous sections.

Murren-Gimmelwald Via Ferrata guide