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Kerns

Top 20 Gorges around Kerns

Best canyons around Kerns are found in a region characterized by its alpine landscape and impressive geological formations. This area in Central Switzerland offers a variety of gorges carved by rivers, providing access to unique natural environments. Visitors can explore deep rock formations and experience the power of water shaping the terrain. The region is a destination for those seeking natural beauty and outdoor exploration.

Best canyons around Kerns

  • The most popular canyons is Aare Gorge, a gorge where…

Last updated: October 9, 2026

Aare Gorge

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An impressive gorge can now be admired where the river carved its way into the limestone for thousands of years. Around 200 meters deep and barely a meter wide at …

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The Aare Gorge

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With an entrance fee of 10 CHF, the Aareschlucht is not really expensive.

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Trift Bridge

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Breathtaking suspension rope bridge. Generates a queasy feeling to cross this bridge.

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Aaschlucht Gorge

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The floods in 2005 and 2011 destroyed large parts of the hiking trail between Engelberg and Grafenort. In 2007, an interest group was organized under the leadership of district forester …

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Aare Gorge East Entrance

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At the end of the Aare Gorge you will be guided through a souvenir shop. There are toilets and parking spaces.

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Swiss_Naturelover
June 25, 2025, Aare Gorge East Entrance

1960 The bridge and paths to the ,,Trockenen Lamm“ were dismounted because the cost of maintenance was too high. 1977 Financial investment was focused upon infrastructure and visitor's safety. 1987 The Aareschlucht restaurant at the west entrance was renovated. 2003 The MIB train stop at Aareschlucht Ost was accessed by a new swing-bridge. 2005 After a very bad storm, the gorge was closed for a few days during peak season because of safety reasons. 2008 The Aare-Bistro at the east entrance was built.

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1946 On 6 May, the MIB train (between Meiringen and Innertkirchen) was granted permission to be used for public transport. The train belongs to the Oberhasli Hydroelectric Power Company and had previously been operating solely as a transport and workers' train for the company since 1 August 1926. 1947 The opening of the Susten pass road lead to a visitor's record 180000 admissions. 1957 The tram line was replaced by a bus connection.

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Building Phases 1888 At the same time that the road to, and the paths in the gorge were built, the train line over the Brünig pass was opened. This made the Alps accessible for tourists, who came in droves. 1898 The gorge was completely accessed and passable throughout. A second entrance was built from the „Trockene Lamm“. 1912 With the introduction of electricity the Aare gorge was illuminated at night which was a huge attraction at the time. A tram line connected Meiringen with the Aare gorge1914 The flood lights for the evening illumination had to be given to the Swiss army. 1937 Evening illumination was newly installed using new vapour discharge lamps. 1940 Construction of the military cavern in the eastern part of the gorge. The entrance at „Trockenen Lamm“ was closed for safety reasons.

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Eastern entrance or exit of the Aare Gorge. Visiting the Aare Gorge is subject to a fee, but it's well worth it. Tickets are available here. Parking for cars and coaches is available right in front of the entrance. A small restaurant with restrooms offers a wonderful view from the terrace, especially in summer. Various interesting information boards are available.

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The Aaschlucht adventure trail is highly recommended! It's really well-designed, well-maintained, and there are several places to stop and barbecue. The trail is especially great in summer, as the forest and water keep it pleasantly cool. However, there are always lots of people out and about then. I think it's really cool that the trail has been expanded for bikers! 💚 About a year ago, it was the same trail as the hikers. But now the trail branches off roughly halfway, so bikers and hikers can use their own paths. Really great!

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Just wooowww... you have to see it 😎

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🌊🏞️ The Aare Gorge near Meiringen is an impressive natural wonder in the Bernese Oberland. This hike takes you through the narrow, up to 200-meter-deep gorge through which the Aare flows. 🌄🚶‍♂️ 🚗 The Aare Gorge is easy to reach from Meiringen. You can arrive by car or public transport. There are parking spaces at both entrances to the gorge - west and east. 🚶‍♂️The hike through the Aare Gorge is easy and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. The path is well secured and suitable for all ages. Entry usually costs around 10 CHF for adults. Start the hike at the west entrance of the Aare Gorge, which is located near the Aare Gorge West train station. Alternatively, you can also start at the east entrance. The path takes you along well-developed footbridges and through tunnels directly through the narrow gorge. The impressive rock faces and the roaring water of the Aare offer a unique natural experience. 📸

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Rick M
July 20, 2024, Die Aareschlucht

A beautiful gorge, you can walk through it and take the train back or walk back, cool and pleasant especially in summer

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular canyons around Kerns?

The most popular canyons in the Kerns region include the Aare Gorge, where the river has carved its way into limestone, and The Aare Gorge, known for its impressive rock faces. Visitors also highly appreciate the Aaschlucht Gorge, a wild and romantic gorge with well-developed paths.

Are there family-friendly canyons to explore near Kerns?

Yes, several canyons around Kerns are suitable for families. The Aare Gorge is a family-friendly natural monument with well-secured paths. The Aaschlucht Gorge also offers well-developed paths, including suspension bridges, making it accessible for families.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see in the canyons around Kerns?

The canyons around Kerns are characterized by deep gorges, impressive rock formations, and the powerful flow of rivers. You'll encounter dramatic rock walls, roaring water, and lush forest sections. Highlights like the Alpbach Gorge also feature waterfalls.

What outdoor activities can I do near the canyons in Kerns?

Beyond exploring the canyons themselves, the Kerns region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find excellent options for gravel biking, with routes like the 'Kernwald Forest — Gravel Path' loop. There are also numerous running trails, such as the 'Gerzenseeli – Water Lilies at Chernwald Pond' loop, and road cycling routes like the 'Entlebuch Passes Tour'. For more details, check the Gravel biking around Kerns, Running Trails around Kerns, and Road Cycling Routes around Kerns guides.

Are there challenging canyon trails for experienced hikers?

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Alpbach Gorge offers a more demanding route, with parts that are steep and can be slippery when wet. The Trift Bridge, while not a canyon itself, is part of a challenging hike that offers breathtaking views over a gorge.

What do visitors enjoy most about the canyons around Kerns?

Visitors frequently praise the impressive natural beauty and the unique experience of walking through narrow gorges carved by water. The well-developed paths and bridges, even through challenging terrain, are often highlighted. The sheer scale of the rock formations and the roaring sound of the water are also commonly mentioned as highlights.

Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots within the canyons?

Many canyons in the Kerns region offer stunning viewpoints. The Aare Gorge provides impressive views of its 200-meter-deep limestone walls. The Trift Bridge offers a breathtaking perspective over a gorge, and the Alpbach Gorge treats visitors to stunning views of waterfalls and the city of Meiringen below.

How long does it take to hike through the Aare Gorge?

Hiking through the Aare Gorge typically takes about 40 minutes from one end to the other. The path is well-secured with footbridges and tunnels, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience.

Is there parking available at the popular canyons?

Yes, for popular sites like the Aare Gorge, there is a large car park at the main (west) entrance near Meiringen. Parking spaces are generally available at both the west and east entrances of the Aare Gorge.

What is the best time to visit the canyons around Kerns?

The main season for visiting many canyons, such as the Aare Gorge, typically runs from April or May until November. Visiting during weekdays is often recommended to avoid crowds, especially at popular spots. Some gorges, like the Aare Gorge, also offer evening lighting during July and August for a unique experience.

Are there any historical or cultural aspects to the canyons in Kerns?

While the primary appeal of the canyons around Kerns is their natural geological formations, some areas have a history of human interaction. For instance, the hiking trail through the Aaschlucht Gorge has been significantly repaired and maintained by local interest groups after floods, showcasing community effort in preserving access to these natural wonders.

Can I access the canyons by public transport?

Yes, for the Aare Gorge, the Meiringen-Innertkirchen Railway (MIB) stops at both the east and west entrances, providing a direct connection from Meiringen station. This makes it convenient to reach the gorge without a car.

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Already discovered everything in this region? See additional gorges around Kerns for your next adventure:

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