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brooke beyond

Latin America / Peru

Complete Ausangate Circuit & Rainbow Mountain packing list

10 May 2025

The Ausangate Trek is one of the most rugged and spectacular high-altitude treks in Peru, looping around the sacred Ausangate massif and weaving through remote alpaca-dotted valleys en route to Rainbow Mountain. With extreme elevation, unpredictable weather, and no access to services for days at a time, packing the right gear is essential to staying safe and comfortable on the trail.

I hiked the Ausangate Circuit and Rainbow Mountain in August 2019 with a local trekking company and was blown away by this quiet and criminally overlooked trail near Cusco, Peru. This detailed packing list includes you need for 4-6 days on the Ausangate Circuit, plus recommendations for how to adapt packing for an unsupported solo trek!

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase something I recommend, at no extra cost to you. I ONLY recommend gear that I personally use (or that James uses) and that we genuinely LOVE— your support helps keep this site going and the adventures rolling!

Check out my outdoor gear guides for the best:

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Ausangate Circuit packing list

The Ausangate Trek ranges from 4,300m to nearly 5,200m, so you’ll be hiking and sleeping at serious altitude every single day. Even in the dry season (May–September), you can expect below-freezing nights, cold mornings, intense sun exposure during the day, and the occasional snow flurry.

The terrain is fairly mellow, with moderate passes and simple trails or paths through the tundra, so elevation remains the greatest challenge for most hikers, as do the extreme weather conditions that come with 5,000m.

A guide isn’t required to hike the Ausangate Circuit— but guided treks are incredibly affordable and provide meaningful support to the local economy, so they can be a great option for those who want some logistical support. We were personally using this route as an acclimatisation hike ahead of our unsupported 10-day Huayhuash expedition (with 20-30kg packs), so we were VERY happy to join a guided group and save ourselves the heavy lifting!

If you’re hiking the Ausangate Circuit unsupported, I’d recommend looking at my Huayhuash Circuit packing list for camping gear, backcountry food, and safety/nav essentials that also apply to Ausangate.

⛰️ Check out my Ausangate Trail Guide for a detailed daily itinerary, essential booking information, and top tips for hiking to Rainbow Mountain!

TRAIL ESSENTIALS (what you’ll hike with each day)
⭐️ daypack (15-25L): Arc’teryx Mantis 26 or Mantis 16
⭐️ raincover: REI Co-op Duck’s Back Pack Rain Cover
⭐️ hiking boots: adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 GTX Hiking Boots (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ trekking poles: Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles
⭐️ water bladder: Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir 2L
⭐️ snacks + electrolytes: Liquid IV
⭐️ camera: Canon R6 Mark 2 + 24-105mm lens
⭐️ GPS: Garmin fenix 7X Pro Watch
⭐️ First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kits Backpacker
⭐️ sunscreen, chapstick, bathroom bits
⭐️ sunglasses: Julbo Vermont
⭐️ sun hat: Arc’teryx Gamma 5-Panel Cap
⭐️ neck gaiter: Buff Original
⭐️ lightweight hiking gloves: Outdoor Research Trail Mix Gloves (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ waterproof shell mittens: Black Diamond Waterproof Overmitts

CAMP GEAR (what you’ll send ahead to camp with the porters)
⭐️ sleeping bag: Sea to Summit Spark 0
⭐️ camp pillow: Sea to Summit Aeros Premium
⭐️ toiletries + personal items
⭐️ headlamp: Black Diamond Spot 400-R
⭐️ powerbank: VRURC Portable Charger with Built-in Cables, 10000mAh
⭐️ beanie: Arc’teryx Mallow Toque
⭐️ fleece mid-layer: Arc’teryx Kyanite Zip Neck Top (women’s) / Rho Heavyweight Zip Neck Top (men’s)
⭐️ down jacket: Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ fleece bottoms: Arc’teryx Kyanite Base Layer Bottoms (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ camp shoes: Mountain Hardwear Down Booties

WHAT TO WEAR ON THE AUSANGATE CIRCUIT
⭐️ sports bra + underwear: Vuori AllTheFeels Bra
⭐️ hiking shirt: Arc’teryx Taema Crew Shirt (women’s) / Cormac Crew Shirt (men’s)
⭐️ wool base layer: Smartwool Classic Thermal Base Layer Top (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ lightweight fleece mid-layer: Arc’teryx Rho LT Hoody (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ synthetic insulation: Arc’teryx Atom Hoody (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ shell jacket: Arc’teryx Beta SL Jacket (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ hiking shorts: Vuori AllThe Feels Shorts
⭐️ soft shell pants: Arc’teryx Gamma Pants (women’s) / (men’s) OR tights: Vuori AllTheFeels Leggings
⭐️ liner socks: Injinji Liner Crew
⭐️ boot socks: Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks (women’s) / (men’s)

Setting off on the Ausangate Circuit

Trail essentials

These are the items you’ll carry in your daypack each day on the trail— everything you need to stay safe, comfortable, and prepared between campsites. Although your porter will carry the bulk of your gear, you’ll still want to have layers for rapidly changing weather, hydration and snacks, sun protection, and a few lightweight safety items. Realistically, this pack will only weigh ~5kg for most hikers and ~8kg for photographers with some bulkier gear!


daypack (15–25L): Arc’teryx Mantis 26 or Mantis 16

Since porters will carry your main duffel, you’ll just need a comfortable daypack for your layers, snacks, camera, and water. Look for something lightweight and breathable since you won’t require much support for 5-8kg.

I’d recommend either the Arc’teryx Mantis 26 or the Mantis 16 (if you have no camera gear and can go ultra-light). These are both awesome, streamlined daypacks with the perfect number of pockets to keep your gear organised without unnecessary bulk.

👉🏼 Need more advice on choosing a backpack? Check out this post: How to choose the best hiking backpack for every outdoor adventure


raincover: REI Co-op Duck’s Back Pack Rain Cover

Even in the dry season, a sudden downpour is always possible in the Andes, so a lightweight rain cover is essential— size small is perfect for your daypack.


hiking boots: adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 GTX Hiking Boots (women’s) / (men’s)

I wore Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots on Ausangate, and these are supportive, rugged backpacking boots great for multi-day hiking.

Preparing to do this hike again in 2025 (before cancelling due to knee surgery), I was planning to wear the lighter adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 GTX Hiking Boots (women’s) / (men’s). I haven’t tested them on this exact trail, but there’s not much terrain, so I think they’d be perfect and super comfortable!

👉🏼 Need more advice on choosing the right boot? Read my outdoor footwear guide


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

trekking poles: Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles


A total game-changer on high passes and steep descents— trekking poles will save your knees and help you haul yourself up to a breathless 5,200m.


water bladder: Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir 2L

The best way to stay hydrated on the Ausangate Circuit is with a water bladder that you can easily sip from while moving— drinking a lot of water won’t prevent altitude sickness, but it absolutely helps combat some of the symptoms!


snacks + electrolytes: Liquid IV

Although your trekking company will provide hot meals, you’ll need to carry your own snacks for the trail. Think protein bars, gummies, dried fruit, cookies, or even salty chips!

I also strongly recommend adding electrolytes to your water for an extra hydration boost— I love Liquid IV and drink minimum 2 per day when hiking at elevation.


camera: Canon R6 Mark 2 + 24-105mm lens

If you love photography, bring your best camera to capture the magic of Ausangate and its towering glaciers!

I’ve had a few cameras over the years, but our current travel workhorse is the awesome mirrorless Canon R6 Mark 2 paired with a 24-105mm lens, which will capture phenomenal photos without adding too much weight or bulk to your pack. I always carry my camera on my backpack strap for easy access using the Peak Design capture clip.

👉🏼 For a complete run-down of ALL the camera gear we are currently loving, check out: Camera gear for travel photography: what we use as full-time travellers


GPS: Garmin fenix 7X Pro Watch

Even though your guide will navigate the route for you, having your own GPS track is handy for checking elevation and staying motivated on those long, breathless climbs!

James wears this watch daily and I simply look over his shoulder at the stats (when I don’t have my nose buried in the GPS).


First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kits Backpacker

Your guide will carry a first aid kit, but it’s still smart to have basics like blister pads, pain meds, and stomach meds in your daypack so you’re never caught out.

Depending on your acclimatisation program, it may also be smart to get a prescription for Diamox (Acetazolamide) before the trip to prevent and treat altitude sickness— read more about it in this post.


sunscreen, chapstick, bathroom bits

Sun exposure builds quickly when you’re spending hours outside at high elevation. Pack SPF 50+ sunscreen, SPF lip balm, and whatever else you need to stay sun-safe on the trail!

Keep these things in your top pocket or a hipbelt for easy access, along with an emergency bathroom kit (gastro issues are common at elevation!). Carry a ziplock bag with some spare TP and hand sanny, and BE SURE to bag out any used TP instead of leaving it behind.


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

sunglasses: Julbo Vermont

Glacier glasses like these are overkill for a trail hike, sure, but they’ve been my go-to outdoor sunnies for a long time and I love them, especially at elevation when the sun is more intense.

If you’re looking for a budget friendly option, REI’s Goodr range offers the best polarised glassed $30 can buy.


sun hat: Arc’teryx Gamma 5-Panel Cap


Keep your face shaded on the trail with a simple cap. A wide brim or neck cape can also be helpful (which you’ll see us wearing in photos!).


Buff

neck gaiter: Buff Original

A multi-use Buff protects your neck from sunburn, keeps your face warm in the mornings, holds your sweaty hair back, and is great for windy passes. Keep it handy in your pack for daily use on the trail!


Outdoor Research Trail Mix gloves

lightweight hiking gloves: Outdoor Research Trail Mix Gloves (women’s) / (men’s)

Soft, lightweight gloves are a lifesaver when your hands need a bit of protection from that high-elevation wind. Again, store in your pack for easy access throughout the day.


waterproof shell mittens: Black Diamond Waterproof Overmitts


These add crucial wind and rain protection when layered over gloves, especially helpful on exposed passes like Abra Ausangate or Palomani.


Camping on the Ausangate Circuit

Camp gear

Each morning, you’ll pack your duffel with everything you don’t need on the trail— that means your warm evening layers, sleep system, toiletries, chargers, etc (4-8kg limit, depending on the company). Porters or pack animals will deliver it to the next camp before you arrive, so you won’t see it again until late afternoon.

Nights on the Ausangate Circuit are extremely cold, especially at high camps over 4,500m, so your gear should prioritise warmth and comfort above all else! Here’s what I’d recommend to keep you happy at camp.


expedition duffel: The North Face Base Camp Duffel 50L

Some companies provide a duffel for you to send your camp gear ahead to each camp (carried by porters), but they aren’t always waterproof or terribly durable, so you might consider bringing your own to make sure all your bits stay clean and dry.


sleeping bag: Sea to Summit Spark 0

With night-time temps well below freezing throughout the year, a high-quality sleeping bag is critical. Many companies will provide a sleeping bag (either included or for a nominal extra fee), but I way prefer sleeping in my own!

Sleeping pads are also provided by the trekking company and I wouldn’t worry about bringing your own unless you have a very strong preference.


camp pillow: Sea to Summit Aeros Premium

Again, pretty much every company will provide a pillow, but they aren’t guaranteed to be the most comfortable, so this is a small, lightweight addition that I highly recommend!


toiletries + personal items

Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, deodorant, medications, contact solution… whatever you need to stay clean and comfortable for 4-6 days on the trail!


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

headlamp: Black Diamond Spot 400-R

A bright, rechargeable headlamp is essential for evenings around camp and the dark-and-early start to Rainbow Mountain for sunrise on the final day!


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

powerbank: VRURC Portable Charger with Built-in Cables, 10000mAh

There’s no electricity on the trail, so a powerbank is a must for recharging your phone, camera, watch, or headlamp. One 10,000mAh battery got me through all 4 days, but if you’re on a longer itinerary, I’d add a second powerbank.


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

beanie: Arc’teryx Mallow Toque

A warm hat is non-negotiable— it gets bitterly cold as soon as the sun dips behind the mountains, so you’ll be glad to have this at camp!


Arc'teryx rho kyanite

heavyweight fleece mid-layer: Arc’teryx Kyanite Zip Neck Top (women’s) / Rho Heavyweight Zip Neck Top (men’s)

A fleece is perfect for lounging at camp and layering under your down jacket on colder nights. I sent this ahead with my duffel and changed into it as soon as I arrived at camp.


down jacket: Arc’teryx Cerium Hoody (women’s) / (men’s)

A down jacket is pretty essential for cold evenings in the Andes, but it has no business in your daypack— down doesn’t perform well when wet (from rain or sweat) and it’s not the easiest to clean, so this should NOT be a trail layer. Send it ahead in your duffel!


fleece tights: Arc’teryx Kyanite Base Layer Bottoms (women’s) / (men’s)

The first thing you’ll want to put on after arriving at camp, these cozy, ultra-comfy fleece tights are the perfect sleep attire for sub-zero nights.


camp shoes: Mountain Hardwear Down Bootie

These are a small and super lightweight addition to your pack, but they make a big difference during cold nights at elevation! Sleep with them for the best results.


Rainbow Mountain

What to wear on the Ausangate Circuit

Ausangate is cold, even in the middle of dry season, so dressing in adaptable layers is essential for staying comfortable! Most of the trail sits above 4,500m, with mountain passes near 5,200m, so expect wild temperature swings from strong alpine sun during the day to bitter wind and frost after dark.

Aside from what you’re physically wearing when you leave camp each day, I’d highly recommend carrying a warm upper layer and a rain jacket in your daypack so you’re prepared for weather changes and chilly high passes. The rest of these items can be sent ahead in your duffel to camp so you have clean layers for the coming days.

👉🏼 Need help building a layering system that works for any trip? Read my outdoor layering guide for tips on choosing base layers, insulation, and outer shells.


sports bras: Vuori AllTheFeels Bra + underwear

Opt for quick-drying, moisture-wicking materials that will be comfortable across multiple days of wear. I’d recommend 1-2 sports bras and 4-6 pairs of underwear so you can change daily.


hiking shirt: Arc’teryx Taema Crew Shirt (women’s) / Cormac Crew Shirt (men’s)

Breathable, lightweight, and great at managing sweat on the climbs. I ended up wearing my long-sleeve for the entire trek, so I’d recommend just bring one t-shirt in case you do the same.


wool base layer: Smartwool Classic Thermal Base Layer Top (women’s) / (men’s)

Merino wool stays warm even if it gets damp, yet also remains fairly cool during sun-drenched climbs! I wore this constantly and never got down to just a t-shirt, even in the afternoon sun.


lightweight fleece mid-layer: Arc’teryx Rho LT Hoody (women’s) / (men’s)

Soft, stretchy, and breathable, this is an ideal layer to throw over a t-shirt/long-sleeve or under warmer jackets. The fitted hood and built-in balaclava also help cut wind, but it’s still light enough that you won’t overheat on ascents.


synthetic insulation: Arc’teryx Atom Hoody (women’s) / (men’s)

The Atom Hoody was my go-to insulation layer for hiking over chilly mountain passes and I hardly took it off around Ausangate. Synthetic jackets are an excellent choice for the trail, since they perform well even in wet weather or when sweaty (unlike down), AND this jacket is still breathable enough for hiking in moderate weather.


shell jacket: Arc’teryx Beta SL Jacket (women’s) / (men’s)

Even in the dry season, this is essential and should be kept handy in your daypack at all times! It can be excellent for blocking wind on high passes and of course protecting against surprise rain that is always possible in the Andes.


hiking tights: Vuori AllTheFeels Leggings

I wore leggings every day on the Ausangate Circuit because it was just too cold for shorts, so I’d highly recommend tights and/or pants for this trek!


soft shell pants: Arc’teryx Gamma Pants (women’s) / (men’s)

These are my favourite hiking pants, and even though they aren’t fully waterproof, they are a million times more comfortable than rain pants AND they do a pretty good job of repelling rain (they dry super fast, too!).

I didn’t wear these because we were lucky to have good weather, but I’d still absolutely recommend packing proper hiking pants for Ausangate.


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

2x liner socks: Injinji Liner Crew

Toe socks might look funny, but they seriously reduce friction and help prevent blisters on long trail days. I swear by these! Depending on your itinerary, I’d recommend 2-3 liner socks.


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

3x boot socks: Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks (women’s) / (men’s)

My go-to socks for multi-day hikes— durable, padded, and still comfy after multiple days of trail grime. I’d recommend 2-3 pairs of socks for the trail and an extra pair for sleep!


hiking boots: adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 GTX Hiking Boots (women’s) / (men’s)

In case you missed it at the top of this post… boots are pretty important and of course you’ll be wearing these every day!

👉🏼 Need more advice on choosing the right boot? Read my outdoor footwear guide


Whether you’re trekking self-supported or with a guided group, this packing list is built for performance and comfort in one of the most spectacular corners of the Peruvian Andes. I hope it helps you prepare confidently for 5,200m of breathless beauty on the Ausangate Circuit!

⛰️ Still planning your hike? Read my Ausangate Trail Guide for a detailed daily itinerary, essential booking information, and top tips for hiking to Rainbow Mountain. And if you have any questions about gear, I’m always happy to help— drop them in the comments!

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brooke beyond

Hey, I'm Brooke and I'm obsessed with getting off the beaten path, exploring backcountry gems & travelling beyond the ordinary! I left Australia 5 years ago after finishing a PhD in Biomechanics & have been travelling the world full-time ever since (joined by my life/climbing partner, James). Whether it’s road-tripping through Mexico, climbing alpine peaks in the Andes, scuba diving in the Red Sea, or tackling epic via ferrata in the Dolomites, I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

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hi, I’m brooke!

I'm obsessed with getting off the beaten path, exploring backcountry gems & travelling beyond the ordinary! I left Australia 5 years ago after finishing a PhD in Biomechanics & have been travelling the world full-time ever since (now joined by my life/climbing partner, James). I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

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brooke ✨travel & mountain gal

@brookebeyond_

  • magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
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#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
  • NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

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Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
  • We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼

(#8 might just be my personal fave 😂)

ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
  • absolutely one of the most amazing little hikes we did in Switzerlnad this summer (& the competition was stiff) 🤩🏔️🌞🌸

📍Saxer Lücke

GETTING THERE: catch the Frümsen gondola to Staubernkanzel

HIKE: 1hr (2.5km, 250m gain) to this amazing viewpoint

WHEN TO GO: the best lighting is in the afternoon, these photos were taken around 4pm and it just kept getting better!
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#swissalps #switzerland #saxerlücke #swisssummer #alpstein
  • the BEST easy hike in Zermatt 🏔️🥾✨

For spectacular views of the Matterhorn, the enormous Monte Rosa massif, and the Gorner Glacier (as well as 29 peaks over 4,000m!), there’s no better EASY hike than Riffelberg to Gornergrat, accessible via the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt. 

The hike only takes about 2hrs at a leisurely pace (I did it 7 weeks after knee surgery!), so it’s suitable for families and non-hikers with even a basic level of fitness 🏃🏻‍♀️

🇨🇭 START FROM ZERMATT
- purchase tickets (day-of is fine) from Gornergrat Railway, right across from Zermatt train station

🚞 GORNERGRAT RAILWAY
- tickets from Zermatt to Riffelberg cost 42CHF ($50USD)— there’s no discount for return, so keep it flexible by purchasing one-way
- the train takes the about 25min, sit on the right side for best views!
- when you finish the hike at Gornergrat, buy a one-way ticket back to Zermatt for 66CHF ($80USD)
- save 50% on tickets with the Swiss Half Fare Card— the pass costs 120CHF ($150USD) and lasts for a whole month, it’s almost always worth it!) 

🥾 HIKE DETAILS: RIFFELSEE TO GORNERGRAT
- the route is 5km with 560m elevation gain (entirely uphill)
- the best views of the Matterhorn are around Riffelsee, where several small lakes offer perfect reflections
- near Rotenboden (the train station in between Riffelberg & Gornergrat), there are excellent rocky viewpoints of both Matterhorn and Monta Rosa— it’s easy to find quiet views if you hike around a bit!
- as you get closer to Gornergrat, Monte Rosa and the Gorner Glacier are right in your face
- almost everyone does this hike in reverse (Gornergrat to Riffelberg), I just personally hate hiking downhill— but you can swap if you’d rather descend the entire way!
  • 2 months after knee surgery and barely a week after I stopped walking with a knee brace and cane, I was honestly so proud to be able to do this (objectively very easy) 5km hike with 250m gain— it may not seem like much, but for me, this was a HUGE step forward 🥹

📍 Saxer Lücke, Switzerland 

it’s been an extremely challenging recovery, both physically and mentally… but the milestone moments always fill me with hope that things are indeed getting better ❤️‍🩹

special shoutout to my fiancé/hiking partner/personal cheering squad @slatojc for slowing down with me on the trail and always offering a hand down slippery rocks before I even have to ask
  • it’s another “if it wasn’t so stupid beautiful, I’d never set foot in this country again because it’s bleeding me dry” kinda summer 🇨🇭🌸☀️🏔️🦋✨

(hands up if you feel personally victimised by Swiss prices but you can’t stay away because MOUNTAINS 😭😭)
  • magical summer sunsets in Switzerland ✨
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#swissalps #stoosridge #swisssummer #sunset
  • BEST EASY HIKES IN SWITZERLAND 🇨🇭❤️‍🩹

just 2 months after knee surgery, I found myself travelling through Switzerland— in search of easy hikes that were actually accessible post-op 🩼 

luckily, there’s hardly a better place in the world for easy hiking than the Swiss Alps!!

so whether you’re recovering from an injury, hiking with older parents/young children, or just a non-hiker who loves an epic view, this short list of HIGH VALUE viewpoints & hikes offer the most spectacular mountain scenery with minimal challenge

💸 BUDGET TIP: buy the Swiss Half Fare Card to save 50% all these gondolas and trains, which can seriously add up!!

- Stoos Ridge: take the Stoosbahn to the little village of Stoos + walk about 15min to the chairlift that can take you all the way up to Fronalpstock— you can walk as little or as much as you want up here, the views are amazing right away
- Riffelsee: take the Gornergrat Railway from Zermatt to Riffelsee + hike 20min to the 2 beautiful alpine lakes (then either hike 1hr up to Gornergrat or catch the train)
- Saxer Lücke: catch a gondola + hike 1hr (2.5km, 250m gain) to this amazing viewpoint— hardest on this list and not suitable for those with extremely limited mobility 
- Kleine Scheidegg: take the train or the gondola from Grindelwald + hike about 20min uphill to the lake
- Jungfraujoch: from Kleine Scheidegg, take the gondola to Jungfraujoch + walk around the viewing platforms
- Trockener Steg: take the gondola from Zermatt + walk 10min from the top of the cable car to the lake for incredible Matterhorn views
- Oeschinensee: 20min walk from the top of the Kandersteg cable car to the lake (bus also available), then you can walk as little or as much as you want around the lake or on the famous Panorama Trail
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#easyhikes #swissalps #matterhorn #jungfraujoch #oeschinensee #stoos #switzerland
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  • magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
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#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
  • NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
  • We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼

(#8 might just be my personal fave 😂)

ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
  • absolutely one of the most amazing little hikes we did in Switzerlnad this summer (& the competition was stiff) 🤩🏔️🌞🌸

📍Saxer Lücke

GETTING THERE: catch the Frümsen gondola to Staubernkanzel

HIKE: 1hr (2.5km, 250m gain) to this amazing viewpoint

WHEN TO GO: the best lighting is in the afternoon, these photos were taken around 4pm and it just kept getting better!
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#swissalps #switzerland #saxerlücke #swisssummer #alpstein
  • the BEST easy hike in Zermatt 🏔️🥾✨

For spectacular views of the Matterhorn, the enormous Monte Rosa massif, and the Gorner Glacier (as well as 29 peaks over 4,000m!), there’s no better EASY hike than Riffelberg to Gornergrat, accessible via the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt. 

The hike only takes about 2hrs at a leisurely pace (I did it 7 weeks after knee surgery!), so it’s suitable for families and non-hikers with even a basic level of fitness 🏃🏻‍♀️

🇨🇭 START FROM ZERMATT
- purchase tickets (day-of is fine) from Gornergrat Railway, right across from Zermatt train station

🚞 GORNERGRAT RAILWAY
- tickets from Zermatt to Riffelberg cost 42CHF ($50USD)— there’s no discount for return, so keep it flexible by purchasing one-way
- the train takes the about 25min, sit on the right side for best views!
- when you finish the hike at Gornergrat, buy a one-way ticket back to Zermatt for 66CHF ($80USD)
- save 50% on tickets with the Swiss Half Fare Card— the pass costs 120CHF ($150USD) and lasts for a whole month, it’s almost always worth it!) 

🥾 HIKE DETAILS: RIFFELSEE TO GORNERGRAT
- the route is 5km with 560m elevation gain (entirely uphill)
- the best views of the Matterhorn are around Riffelsee, where several small lakes offer perfect reflections
- near Rotenboden (the train station in between Riffelberg & Gornergrat), there are excellent rocky viewpoints of both Matterhorn and Monta Rosa— it’s easy to find quiet views if you hike around a bit!
- as you get closer to Gornergrat, Monte Rosa and the Gorner Glacier are right in your face
- almost everyone does this hike in reverse (Gornergrat to Riffelberg), I just personally hate hiking downhill— but you can swap if you’d rather descend the entire way!
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
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.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
•
Follow
magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺 . . . . . #swissalps #switzerland #matterhorn #zermatt #oeschinensee #lucerne #jungfraujoch #grindelwald #swisssummer
1 day ago
View on Instagram |
1/5
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!!

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️

And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!!

Available maps:
🇮🇹 Alta Via 2
🇮🇹 Alta Via 4
🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit
🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit
🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit
🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail
🇨🇱 O-Circuit
🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop
+ more coming soon!

These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! 

They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️

✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨

ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
•
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NEW CUSTOM GPS MAPS!! ✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨ Before every single backpacking trip, hut-to-hut & alpine expedition, I spend dozens of hours on @caltopo building a GPS track to help me navigate along the route confidently, especially when venturing off the standard trail (which I nearly always do) 🗺️ And after MANY requests to share my custom routes, I now have 8 super detailed JSON/GPX files that you can use to plan your own epic adventure off the beaten path— navigating right off your smartphone!!! Available maps: 🇮🇹 Alta Via 2 🇮🇹 Alta Via 4 🇫🇷 Mont Blanc Summit 🇵🇪 Huayhuash Circuit 🇦🇷 Aconcagua Summit 🇺🇸 Teton Crest Trail 🇨🇱 O-Circuit 🇦🇷 Fitz Roy Loop + more coming soon! These maps include detailed route beta with hundreds of waypoints, essential trail stats, alternatives & bailouts, side-trips & summits, all based on my adventurous modifications to these amazing routes! They’ve been heavily tested by friends & readers, and I’m confident you won’t find another resource like them 🗺️ ✨ shop.brookebeyond.com ✨ ps. If you’ve bought one of my maps this summer (AV2 + AV4 have been SO popular!), I’d love to hear from you!!
3 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/5
We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼

(#8 might just be my personal fave 😂)

ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼

(#8 might just be my personal fave 😂)

ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼

(#8 might just be my personal fave 😂)

ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼

(#8 might just be my personal fave 😂)

ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼

(#8 might just be my personal fave 😂)

ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼

(#8 might just be my personal fave 😂)

ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼

(#8 might just be my personal fave 😂)

ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼

(#8 might just be my personal fave 😂)

ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼

(#8 might just be my personal fave 😂)

ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼

(#8 might just be my personal fave 😂)

ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
•
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We took our own engagement photos in the Swiss Alps this summer and here’s how it went 👉🏼 (#8 might just be my personal fave 😂) ALSO this post is for anyone who’s gotten the (woefully mistaken) impression that I am “naturally photogenic”
7 days ago
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3/5
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
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absolutely one of the most amazing little hikes we did in Switzerlnad this summer (& the competition was stiff) 🤩🏔️🌞🌸 📍Saxer Lücke GETTING THERE: catch the Frümsen gondola to Staubernkanzel HIKE: 1hr (2.5km, 250m gain) to this amazing viewpoint WHEN TO GO: the best lighting is in the afternoon, these photos were taken around 4pm and it just kept getting better! . . . . . #swissalps #switzerland #saxerlücke #swisssummer #alpstein
1 week ago
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4/5
the BEST easy hike in Zermatt 🏔️🥾✨

For spectacular views of the Matterhorn, the enormous Monte Rosa massif, and the Gorner Glacier (as well as 29 peaks over 4,000m!), there’s no better EASY hike than Riffelberg to Gornergrat, accessible via the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt. 

The hike only takes about 2hrs at a leisurely pace (I did it 7 weeks after knee surgery!), so it’s suitable for families and non-hikers with even a basic level of fitness 🏃🏻‍♀️

🇨🇭 START FROM ZERMATT
- purchase tickets (day-of is fine) from Gornergrat Railway, right across from Zermatt train station

🚞 GORNERGRAT RAILWAY
- tickets from Zermatt to Riffelberg cost 42CHF ($50USD)— there’s no discount for return, so keep it flexible by purchasing one-way
- the train takes the about 25min, sit on the right side for best views!
- when you finish the hike at Gornergrat, buy a one-way ticket back to Zermatt for 66CHF ($80USD)
- save 50% on tickets with the Swiss Half Fare Card— the pass costs 120CHF ($150USD) and lasts for a whole month, it’s almost always worth it!) 

🥾 HIKE DETAILS: RIFFELSEE TO GORNERGRAT
- the route is 5km with 560m elevation gain (entirely uphill)
- the best views of the Matterhorn are around Riffelsee, where several small lakes offer perfect reflections
- near Rotenboden (the train station in between Riffelberg & Gornergrat), there are excellent rocky viewpoints of both Matterhorn and Monta Rosa— it’s easy to find quiet views if you hike around a bit!
- as you get closer to Gornergrat, Monte Rosa and the Gorner Glacier are right in your face
- almost everyone does this hike in reverse (Gornergrat to Riffelberg), I just personally hate hiking downhill— but you can swap if you’d rather descend the entire way!
the BEST easy hike in Zermatt 🏔️🥾✨

For spectacular views of the Matterhorn, the enormous Monte Rosa massif, and the Gorner Glacier (as well as 29 peaks over 4,000m!), there’s no better EASY hike than Riffelberg to Gornergrat, accessible via the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt. 

The hike only takes about 2hrs at a leisurely pace (I did it 7 weeks after knee surgery!), so it’s suitable for families and non-hikers with even a basic level of fitness 🏃🏻‍♀️

🇨🇭 START FROM ZERMATT
- purchase tickets (day-of is fine) from Gornergrat Railway, right across from Zermatt train station

🚞 GORNERGRAT RAILWAY
- tickets from Zermatt to Riffelberg cost 42CHF ($50USD)— there’s no discount for return, so keep it flexible by purchasing one-way
- the train takes the about 25min, sit on the right side for best views!
- when you finish the hike at Gornergrat, buy a one-way ticket back to Zermatt for 66CHF ($80USD)
- save 50% on tickets with the Swiss Half Fare Card— the pass costs 120CHF ($150USD) and lasts for a whole month, it’s almost always worth it!) 

🥾 HIKE DETAILS: RIFFELSEE TO GORNERGRAT
- the route is 5km with 560m elevation gain (entirely uphill)
- the best views of the Matterhorn are around Riffelsee, where several small lakes offer perfect reflections
- near Rotenboden (the train station in between Riffelberg & Gornergrat), there are excellent rocky viewpoints of both Matterhorn and Monta Rosa— it’s easy to find quiet views if you hike around a bit!
- as you get closer to Gornergrat, Monte Rosa and the Gorner Glacier are right in your face
- almost everyone does this hike in reverse (Gornergrat to Riffelberg), I just personally hate hiking downhill— but you can swap if you’d rather descend the entire way!
the BEST easy hike in Zermatt 🏔️🥾✨

For spectacular views of the Matterhorn, the enormous Monte Rosa massif, and the Gorner Glacier (as well as 29 peaks over 4,000m!), there’s no better EASY hike than Riffelberg to Gornergrat, accessible via the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt. 

The hike only takes about 2hrs at a leisurely pace (I did it 7 weeks after knee surgery!), so it’s suitable for families and non-hikers with even a basic level of fitness 🏃🏻‍♀️

🇨🇭 START FROM ZERMATT
- purchase tickets (day-of is fine) from Gornergrat Railway, right across from Zermatt train station

🚞 GORNERGRAT RAILWAY
- tickets from Zermatt to Riffelberg cost 42CHF ($50USD)— there’s no discount for return, so keep it flexible by purchasing one-way
- the train takes the about 25min, sit on the right side for best views!
- when you finish the hike at Gornergrat, buy a one-way ticket back to Zermatt for 66CHF ($80USD)
- save 50% on tickets with the Swiss Half Fare Card— the pass costs 120CHF ($150USD) and lasts for a whole month, it’s almost always worth it!) 

🥾 HIKE DETAILS: RIFFELSEE TO GORNERGRAT
- the route is 5km with 560m elevation gain (entirely uphill)
- the best views of the Matterhorn are around Riffelsee, where several small lakes offer perfect reflections
- near Rotenboden (the train station in between Riffelberg & Gornergrat), there are excellent rocky viewpoints of both Matterhorn and Monta Rosa— it’s easy to find quiet views if you hike around a bit!
- as you get closer to Gornergrat, Monte Rosa and the Gorner Glacier are right in your face
- almost everyone does this hike in reverse (Gornergrat to Riffelberg), I just personally hate hiking downhill— but you can swap if you’d rather descend the entire way!
the BEST easy hike in Zermatt 🏔️🥾✨

For spectacular views of the Matterhorn, the enormous Monte Rosa massif, and the Gorner Glacier (as well as 29 peaks over 4,000m!), there’s no better EASY hike than Riffelberg to Gornergrat, accessible via the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt. 

The hike only takes about 2hrs at a leisurely pace (I did it 7 weeks after knee surgery!), so it’s suitable for families and non-hikers with even a basic level of fitness 🏃🏻‍♀️

🇨🇭 START FROM ZERMATT
- purchase tickets (day-of is fine) from Gornergrat Railway, right across from Zermatt train station

🚞 GORNERGRAT RAILWAY
- tickets from Zermatt to Riffelberg cost 42CHF ($50USD)— there’s no discount for return, so keep it flexible by purchasing one-way
- the train takes the about 25min, sit on the right side for best views!
- when you finish the hike at Gornergrat, buy a one-way ticket back to Zermatt for 66CHF ($80USD)
- save 50% on tickets with the Swiss Half Fare Card— the pass costs 120CHF ($150USD) and lasts for a whole month, it’s almost always worth it!) 

🥾 HIKE DETAILS: RIFFELSEE TO GORNERGRAT
- the route is 5km with 560m elevation gain (entirely uphill)
- the best views of the Matterhorn are around Riffelsee, where several small lakes offer perfect reflections
- near Rotenboden (the train station in between Riffelberg & Gornergrat), there are excellent rocky viewpoints of both Matterhorn and Monta Rosa— it’s easy to find quiet views if you hike around a bit!
- as you get closer to Gornergrat, Monte Rosa and the Gorner Glacier are right in your face
- almost everyone does this hike in reverse (Gornergrat to Riffelberg), I just personally hate hiking downhill— but you can swap if you’d rather descend the entire way!
the BEST easy hike in Zermatt 🏔️🥾✨

For spectacular views of the Matterhorn, the enormous Monte Rosa massif, and the Gorner Glacier (as well as 29 peaks over 4,000m!), there’s no better EASY hike than Riffelberg to Gornergrat, accessible via the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt. 

The hike only takes about 2hrs at a leisurely pace (I did it 7 weeks after knee surgery!), so it’s suitable for families and non-hikers with even a basic level of fitness 🏃🏻‍♀️

🇨🇭 START FROM ZERMATT
- purchase tickets (day-of is fine) from Gornergrat Railway, right across from Zermatt train station

🚞 GORNERGRAT RAILWAY
- tickets from Zermatt to Riffelberg cost 42CHF ($50USD)— there’s no discount for return, so keep it flexible by purchasing one-way
- the train takes the about 25min, sit on the right side for best views!
- when you finish the hike at Gornergrat, buy a one-way ticket back to Zermatt for 66CHF ($80USD)
- save 50% on tickets with the Swiss Half Fare Card— the pass costs 120CHF ($150USD) and lasts for a whole month, it’s almost always worth it!) 

🥾 HIKE DETAILS: RIFFELSEE TO GORNERGRAT
- the route is 5km with 560m elevation gain (entirely uphill)
- the best views of the Matterhorn are around Riffelsee, where several small lakes offer perfect reflections
- near Rotenboden (the train station in between Riffelberg & Gornergrat), there are excellent rocky viewpoints of both Matterhorn and Monta Rosa— it’s easy to find quiet views if you hike around a bit!
- as you get closer to Gornergrat, Monte Rosa and the Gorner Glacier are right in your face
- almost everyone does this hike in reverse (Gornergrat to Riffelberg), I just personally hate hiking downhill— but you can swap if you’d rather descend the entire way!
the BEST easy hike in Zermatt 🏔️🥾✨

For spectacular views of the Matterhorn, the enormous Monte Rosa massif, and the Gorner Glacier (as well as 29 peaks over 4,000m!), there’s no better EASY hike than Riffelberg to Gornergrat, accessible via the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt. 

The hike only takes about 2hrs at a leisurely pace (I did it 7 weeks after knee surgery!), so it’s suitable for families and non-hikers with even a basic level of fitness 🏃🏻‍♀️

🇨🇭 START FROM ZERMATT
- purchase tickets (day-of is fine) from Gornergrat Railway, right across from Zermatt train station

🚞 GORNERGRAT RAILWAY
- tickets from Zermatt to Riffelberg cost 42CHF ($50USD)— there’s no discount for return, so keep it flexible by purchasing one-way
- the train takes the about 25min, sit on the right side for best views!
- when you finish the hike at Gornergrat, buy a one-way ticket back to Zermatt for 66CHF ($80USD)
- save 50% on tickets with the Swiss Half Fare Card— the pass costs 120CHF ($150USD) and lasts for a whole month, it’s almost always worth it!) 

🥾 HIKE DETAILS: RIFFELSEE TO GORNERGRAT
- the route is 5km with 560m elevation gain (entirely uphill)
- the best views of the Matterhorn are around Riffelsee, where several small lakes offer perfect reflections
- near Rotenboden (the train station in between Riffelberg & Gornergrat), there are excellent rocky viewpoints of both Matterhorn and Monta Rosa— it’s easy to find quiet views if you hike around a bit!
- as you get closer to Gornergrat, Monte Rosa and the Gorner Glacier are right in your face
- almost everyone does this hike in reverse (Gornergrat to Riffelberg), I just personally hate hiking downhill— but you can swap if you’d rather descend the entire way!
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
•
Follow
the BEST easy hike in Zermatt 🏔️🥾✨ For spectacular views of the Matterhorn, the enormous Monte Rosa massif, and the Gorner Glacier (as well as 29 peaks over 4,000m!), there’s no better EASY hike than Riffelberg to Gornergrat, accessible via the Gornergrat Railway in Zermatt. The hike only takes about 2hrs at a leisurely pace (I did it 7 weeks after knee surgery!), so it’s suitable for families and non-hikers with even a basic level of fitness 🏃🏻‍♀️ 🇨🇭 START FROM ZERMATT - purchase tickets (day-of is fine) from Gornergrat Railway, right across from Zermatt train station 🚞 GORNERGRAT RAILWAY - tickets from Zermatt to Riffelberg cost 42CHF ($50USD)— there’s no discount for return, so keep it flexible by purchasing one-way - the train takes the about 25min, sit on the right side for best views! - when you finish the hike at Gornergrat, buy a one-way ticket back to Zermatt for 66CHF ($80USD) - save 50% on tickets with the Swiss Half Fare Card— the pass costs 120CHF ($150USD) and lasts for a whole month, it’s almost always worth it!) 🥾 HIKE DETAILS: RIFFELSEE TO GORNERGRAT - the route is 5km with 560m elevation gain (entirely uphill) - the best views of the Matterhorn are around Riffelsee, where several small lakes offer perfect reflections - near Rotenboden (the train station in between Riffelberg & Gornergrat), there are excellent rocky viewpoints of both Matterhorn and Monta Rosa— it’s easy to find quiet views if you hike around a bit! - as you get closer to Gornergrat, Monte Rosa and the Gorner Glacier are right in your face - almost everyone does this hike in reverse (Gornergrat to Riffelberg), I just personally hate hiking downhill— but you can swap if you’d rather descend the entire way!
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
5/5

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