Valleys Göschenental
The Göschenental is a rugged and remote alpine valley in the canton of Uri, known for its raw beauty, glacier-fed lakes, and impressive mountain scenery. This quiet valley leads to the Göscheneralpsee, a high-altitude reservoir surrounded by peaks and glaciers. The area offers fantastic hiking, climbing, and photography opportunities in a wild setting. With few buildings and limited access, Göschenental is perfect for those seeking nature without crowds. It’s an ideal stop on scenic routes over the Susten or Furka Pass, offering a unique experience of Switzerland’s more untamed side.
The Göschenental is a stunningly wild alpine valley located in the heart of the canton of Uri. Often overshadowed by the nearby Susten and Furka passes, this valley is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers seeking solitude, natural beauty, and authentic alpine adventure.
The road into the valley starts near the village of Göschenen and climbs through forested slopes, narrow curves, and tunnels until it opens up into a breathtaking alpine basin dominated by granite cliffs, rushing streams, and high-altitude pastures. At the end of the valley lies the Göscheneralpsee, a glacial reservoir surrounded by towering peaks such as the Dammastock and Sustenhorn.
This area is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and nature photographers. Numerous trails radiate from the lake and lead into pristine alpine terrain, including routes to mountain huts like the Chelenalphütte and Dammahütte. The silence is striking, interrupted only by birdsong, wind, and the distant rumble of falling ice or water.
The Göscheneralpsee itself is a captivating destination, with its turquoise waters and dramatic backdrop. It’s also a reminder of climate change—several glaciers feeding the lake have visibly retreated in recent years. Despite its rugged character, the area is accessible by car (in summer), with parking at the reservoir and basic facilities for hikers.
What sets the Göschenental apart is its raw, undeveloped feel. There are no commercial resorts or cable cars—just mountain, water, and sky. It’s the kind of place where you come not for entertainment but for connection—to the earth, to silence, and to yourself.
The Göschenental is perfect for a quiet day in nature, a challenging trek, or simply a drive to the edge of the wild. A true hidden corner of the Swiss Alps.
