Trümmelbach Falls are ten glacial waterfalls inside a mountain in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Switzerland. Meltwater from the Jungfrau, Eiger and Mönch glaciers rushes through the rock, and up to 20,000 litres of water flow through every second. A lift inside the mountain takes you to the middle of the falls, and walkways, stairs and platforms give a different angle on each cascade. The sound and force of the water are the main draw, and the walk usually takes about an hour.
How the falls are fed
The water comes from glaciers above the valley. Melt from the Jungfrau, Eiger and Mönch glaciers feeds the ten cascades, so the flow depends on how much snow and ice is melting.
Water levels are high in mid-May, when the falls carry a large volume of water.
Inside the mountain
The falls sit in the middle of the rock, so the route runs through tunnels with walkways, stairs and viewing platforms. Some sections lie so deep inside the mountain that no daylight reaches them, and they are lit artificially.
The walkways are built to keep you close to the water while you stay on a safe path. Spray reaches several platforms, so expect to get misted in places and keep a light jacket on.
How a visit works
The falls cannot be seen from outside, so you walk from the parking area to the entrance and buy your ticket there. The ticket includes the lift ride to the middle of the falls.
From there, you can continue on foot up the stairs, or take the funicular up to Level 7 if you prefer to skip some steps. The full walk takes about an hour at a relaxed pace.
Around the falls
The falls lie in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, which has 72 waterfalls. A trail runs from the valley to Staubbach Falls and to Trümmelbach, with views of the Spissbach and Büchenbach falls along the way. Dogs must be kept on a leash on the trail.
A café is next to the parking lot, and there is also a restaurant on site. Restrooms and baggage storage are available. The parking lot is wheelchair accessible.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Tickets are bought at the entrance, and buying them in advance is recommended. Check the official website for current prices, as one recent account listed 18 CHF per person with the lift ride included.
How long do you need?
A full walk takes about an hour at a relaxed pace.
Is it accessible for people with limited mobility?
The parking lot is wheelchair accessible. After the lift, the upper falls are reached by stairs, which can be challenging for people with mobility issues.
What should I wear?
Bring a jacket and non-slip shoes. The tunnels are cool and damp, and some floors are wet.
