The Trift Bridge in Switzerland 2025

The Trift Bridge is among the most breathtaking pedestrian suspension bridges in the Alps, offering stunning views of the surrounding Trift Glacier region—a true spectacle for those unafraid of heights.

Highlights

The Trift Bridge is a simple suspension bridge 170 meters long at a height of 100 metres. To find it you can take the Triftbahn gondola and then make a 1,5-hour uphill hike to reach it. It might not be easy, ​but you'll be rewarded with a magnificent view of the Swiss Alps.

History

The Trift Glacier has been significantly impacted by global warming, melting at an alarming rate. Just a few years ago, visitors could hike directly across its glacier tongue to reach the Trift Hut, operated by the Swiss Alpine Club.

In 2004, as the glacier receded, a suspension bridge was constructed to maintain access to the hut. Inspired by Nepalese high-wire bridges, the Trift Bridge quickly became a popular attraction. By 2009, it was replaced with a more secure and accessible structure, now recognized as one of the longest and highest pedestrian suspension bridges in the Alps. Visitors can reach the area near the bridge via a cable car, originally designed as a freight gondola.

Getting to the Bridge

From Meiringen, take a bus heading over the Sustenpass to the Nessental Triftbahn stop, a scenic 32-minute ride east. The bus conveniently stops right in front of the Triftbahn, where the next leg of your unforgettable journey begins.

The Triftbahn gondola, originally designed to transport supplies to the dam at its upper station, accommodates just eight passengers and departs every 15 minutes. It whisks visitors into the remote Trift Gorge, offering breathtaking views along the way. When purchasing your gondola ticket, you'll receive a designated return time, though you may return earlier or later, depending on availability. Ticket prices are CHF 30 ($33) – for an adult round trip and CHF 15 ($16.5) – for children aged 6 to 15.

From the gondola station, a short walk takes you across a small bridge before ascending the valley along the west side of the Triftwasser, the glacial runoff from the shrinking Trift Glacier. The trail, while well-crafted, maintains a rugged mountain charm, with occasional steep sections and crossings over small streams that feed the Triftwasser below. After approximately 90 minutes of hiking, you'll arrive at the iconic suspension bridge, completing an extraordinary alpine adventure.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Trift Bridge is between June and October, when warmer, more stable weather offers better visibility. Hikers should plan their journey carefully, keeping in mind that the last Triftbahn gondola departs at 5 pm. The gondola operates only during the summer season, from the end of June to October, and remains closed during the winter months. Winter conditions can make the trail hazardous due to snow and ice, while summer provides a greater chance of clear skies, perfect for capturing stunning photographs.