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From Simplon to Spitzhorli and Altes Spittel

Trail Running · Switzerland

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Valais/Wallis Promotion

Simplon Trail
Photo: Patitucci Photo, Valais/Wallis Promotion

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This run starts at the famous Simplon Pass, climbs to a rocky summit and traverses a rolling hillside in a beautiful and varied loop before reaching the old hospice.

moderate

Distance 20.2 km

4:25 h

1,178 m

1,180 m

2,725 m

1,799 m

The Simplon Pass constitutes a major route through the Alps, linking Switzerland and Italy between Brig and Domodossola. On this occasion, it is also the starting point for a less frequented adventure. Start at 2,005 metres above sea level and make a rapid ascent to the summit of the Spitzhorli, with a view of the Bietschhorn, Lagginhorn, Weissmies, Monte Leone and the Mischabels range, which will be with you throughout the trail. Continue on towards the Straffolsee and then towards Gspon, turning up to Sirwoltesattel. After a descent next to the waterfalls, the route joins the Stockalperweg, a well-preserved 17th century mule track. The latter takes you to the Altes Spittel, a former hospice built in 1650, and winds through pastures on the way back to the Simplon.

Author’s recommendation

The Bietschhorn is directly behind you for much of the long traverse. Don’t forget to stop and look back.

Author

Mégane Roduit

Update: August 09, 2021

Difficulty

moderate

Technique

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Highest point

Spitzhorli, 2,725 m

Lowest point

Chluismatte, 1,799 m

Best time of year

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Track types

Asphalt

0.2 km

Forested/wild trail

4.8 km

Path

14.3 km

Road

0.3 km

Unknown

0.5 km

Show elevation profile

Safety information

Use of the trails and the information on this website is at your own risk. Local conditions may entail changes to routes. Valais/Wallis Promotion accepts no liability for the accuracy and completeness of information on this website.

For all trails:

Use marked trails only, and take note of all signposting – for both your own safety as well as that of grazing animals and to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Close gates after passing through.
Please treat other trail users, as well as the plants and animals, with respect.

For mountain trails:

Take extra care protecting yourself from the sun at high altitudes. UV radiation can be exceptionally strong, even in cloudy weather.
Plan your trail carefully: take the fitness level of each participant, weather forecast and season into consideration.
Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, without warning. Appropriate clothing is therefore essential, along with adequate supplies of food and water. In case of uncertain weather conditions, turn back in good time.
Inform others of the route you plan to take. Whenever possible, avoid going alone.
Take note of warning signs indicating the constant danger in river beds and along watercourses below dams and reservoirs: water levels may rise rapidly without warning.

Tips and hints

More information about the destination:

Simplon

Start

Simplon, Monte Leone (1,988 m)

Coordinates:

SwissGrid

2'645'152E 1'121'787N

46.246003, 8.024080

DMS

46°14'45.6"N 8°01'26.7"E

UTM

32T 424767 5121843

w3w

///bring.tarnished.cabin

Destination

Simplon, Monte Leone

Turn-by-turn directions

From the Simplon, Monte Leone bus stop or parking area, the trail heads uphill through Beschmoos to the Üsseri Nanzlicke Pass. An additional 150 meters makes a short out and back to tag the summit of Spitzhorli. Returning to Üsseri Nanzlicke, continue downhill past the Straffolsee before angling upward to the Sirwoltesattel. A steep and sometimes rocky descent leads past the few stone houses of Chluismatte and then follows the Chrummbach to Nideralp. Follow thesigns for the Stockalperweg and you’ll pass Altes Spittel before arriving back at the start.

Simplon, Monte Leone - Beschmoos - Üsseri Nanzlicke - Spitzhorli - Üsseri Nanzlicke - Straffolsee - Sirwoltesattel - Chluismatte - Nideralp - Altes Spittel - Simplon, Monte Leone

Note

all notes on protected areas

Public transport

Take the train to Brig, followed by the bus to Simplon and exit at the Monte Leone stop.

Getting there

Take the A9/E62 towards Domodossola/Simplon.

Parking

Free parking is available in Simplon, Monte Leone.

Coordinates

SwissGrid

2'645'152E 1'121'787N

46.246003, 8.024080

DMS

46°14'45.6"N 8°01'26.7"E

UTM

32T 424767 5121843

w3w

///bring.tarnished.cabin

Arrival by train, car, foot or bike

Book recommendation by the author

Brig tourist office offers information regarding trail running in the region.

Author’s map recommendations

Swiss Topo 1:50,000 Hiking Visp 274T

Equipment

We recommend:

Good footwear
Weather-appropriate clothing: always carry a waterproof jacket
Hat or peak cap
Sunscreen
Water bottle
Hiking poles

Questions and answers

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Rating

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Photos from others

Difficulty

moderate

Distance

20.2 km

Duration

4:25 h

Ascent

1,178 m

Descent

1,180 m

Highest point

2,725 m

Lowest point

1,799 m

Circular route Scenic Cultural/historical interest Geological highlights Flora Fauna Insider tip

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3 Waypoints

3 Waypoints

Distance km

Duration : h

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