• start here
  • about
  • group trips
  • brooke beyond

  • hiking guides
  • outdoor gear
    • hiking boots
    • hiking backpacks
    • cold-weather layers
    • backpacking tent
    • outdoor sleep system
    • backcountry food
    • day-hike packing list
    • hut-to-hut packing list
    • via ferrata packing list
    • backpacking packing list
    • mountaineering packing list

brooke beyond

outdoor gear

The ultimate day-hike packing list

14 April 2025

Whether you’re hiking to an epic viewpoint above Lake Louise, summiting a one-day peak in the Alps, or tackling a remote 20hr thru-hike in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, packing the right gear can make all the difference. The old adage “it’s better to have it and not need it” holds incredibly true when it comes to day-hiking— weight and space aren’t at an extreme premium and you can actually afford to over-pack food, water, layers, and safety essentials without ever maxing out your 30L pack.

After hundreds of day-hikes all over the world, I’ve refined this list extensively— it’s even saved in the Notes app on my phone so I can reference it every single time I pack for my own one-day adventures! This is my complete, field-tested day-hiking checklist so you never forget an essential again, complete with personally tested recommendations for the best gear.

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!

What's in this guide

Toggle
  • What to pack for a long day-hike in moderate conditions
    • 🥾 brookebeyond day-hike checklist
    • Best day-hiking backpack
    • Boots & poles
    • Safety & navigation
    • Water storage & food
    • Extra layers
    • Personal items
  • *Overview of our favourite day-hiking gear

Check out all my outdoor packing lists for:

day-hiking
hut-to-hut hikes
via ferrata
backpacking
multi-day mountaineering
day hikes in Banff just hit different!

What to pack for a long day-hike in moderate conditions

This is a general packing list for 4-12hrs+ day-hikes in mild to moderate conditions (and therefore may not apply for 30min jaunts in the National Park). But here’s the thing: most of the gear on this list is lightweight, compact, and essential if the weather turns or something doesn’t go to plan. In almost every situation, it’s better to just carry all of this gear with you— and your pack will still be 5-10kg.

Use your best judgement based on where you’re going, the forecast, and how far from help you’ll be, but err on the side of preparedness and caution with day-hiking, because you CAN!

Throughout the list, I’ve shared my personal gear recommendations based on a lifetime of day-hiking in wildly different environments: deep into US National Forests; all over the Australian bush; across the Andes in Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador; chasing single-day summits in the Alps and the Dolomites; scrambling through the deserts of the Middle East; and sweating it out in the jungles of Mexico, Colombia, and Laos. Every single recommendation on this list has been personally and extensively field-tested by me, so you can save time and money on gearing up for your next day-hike!

🥾 brookebeyond day-hike checklist

BACKPACK
⭐️ day-hiking pack (25-35L)
⭐️ raincover

BOOTS & POLES
⭐️ hiking boots
⭐️ boot socks
⭐️ liner socks
⭐️ trekking poles


SAFETY & NAVIGATION
⭐️ PLB/SOS
⭐️ GPS
⭐️ First Aid Kit
⭐️ headlamp
⭐️ powerbank

WATER STORAGE & FOOD
⭐️ water filter
⭐️ water bottle
OR bladder
⭐️ electrolytes
⭐️ snacks (as needed
)

EXTRA LAYERS
⭐️ long-sleeve layer
⭐️ synthetic insulation layer
⭐️ GoreTex rain shell layer
⭐️ lightweight hiking gloves
⭐️ waterproof exterior mittens

⭐️ Buff

PERSONAL ITEMS
⭐️ bathroom bits
⭐️ Kula Cloth (for women)

⭐️ sun safety
⭐️ camera

Day-hiking in Zion National Park with my trusty Osprey Talon 33

Best day-hiking backpack

Choosing a day-hiking pack can be slightly overwhelming, but luckily I’ve written a super-detailed guide on hiking backpacks to help you understand capacity, what features to look for, how to assess fit, and more.

👉🏼 Check out my complete guide for specific advice on daypacks & how to find your perfect match: How to choose the best hiking backpack for every outdoor adventure


Day-hiking pack (25–35L)

A 25–35L daypack is perfect for carrying layers, water, snacks, and emergency gear for just about every day-hike. Look for a supportive hip belt, a ventilated back panel, and quick-access storage for sunnies, snacks & safety gear.

Best overall: Osprey Tempest 30 (women’s) / Osprey Talon 33 (men’s)

Best for one-day summits: Mountain Hardwear Scrambler 25


Raincover

Protects your gear from sudden downpours— some packs come with one built-in, but if not, make sure to pack a lightweight rain cover that fits over your bag (REI’s size small works for 25-35L packs).

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


my go-to boots for almost every occasion!

Boots & poles

I doubt we need to convince anyone that supportive boots with good grip and waterproofing are essential for comfort, safety, and injury prevention, especially on longer or rougher day-hikes with challenging terrain and conditions. But choosing which boots for each trip requires a little more experience (and a fair bit of good ol’ fashioned trial and error)— consider length of the trail, terrain, and expected conditions at a minimum.

👉🏼 For a deep dive into all your hiking & mountaineering boot options, check out our full guide: How to choose the best trail shoes, hiking boots & mountaineering boots for every outdoor adventure


adidas Terrex hiking boots

Hiking boots

I’m a huge proponent of boots for basically every hike— better ankle support, more stability on rough terrain, overall warmer and dryer feet. We’ve trialled a LOT of boots over the years and these are our current favourites:

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

Best boots for terrain: La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX Mountaineering Boots (women’s) / (men’s)

If you’re running parts of the trail or looking to go ultra-light, we’d recommend swapping your boots for a robust trail runner (James loves his!)

Best trail shoe: La Sportiva Prodigio (women’s) / (men’s)


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

Boot socks

Proper hiking socks are nearly as important as your boots. Choose moisture-wicking merino wool to prevent blisters, manage sweat, and keep your feet warm even if they get damp.

Best overall: Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks (women’s) / (men’s)


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

Liner socks

Thin liner socks help prevent friction and can be layered under hiking socks for longer or multi-day hikes. I discovered these toe-sock liners about 8 years ago and I’ve been evangelising ever since— if you struggle with blisters, this should be your first line of defence!

Best overall: Injinji Liner Crew


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

Trekking poles

These aren’t just for steep trails— trekking poles reduce impact on your knees, help with balance on rocky or icy ground, and give you extra power on climbs. We both carry these on anything but the shortest and most straightforward of day-hikes!

Best overall: Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites
If you only carry one safety item, it should be the Garmin in-reach mini

Safety & navigation

No one ever plans to get lost or injured on a hike, but it DOES happen, and being prepared can turn a serious situation into a manageable one. We always carry multiple navigation tools, a first aid kit, a PLB, headlamp (yes, even on day-hikes!), and an extra power source for safety. These aren’t just for remote expeditions— they’re smart, lightweight pieces of gear that could literally save your life.

👉🏼 I build custom GPS tracks for challenging, convoluted, backcountry routes (everything from an Aconcagua expedition to my custom 10-day Huayhuash Circuit route), check them out on my new shopfront: brookebeyond Custom GPS Maps


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

PLB/SOS

A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is your lifeline in the outdoors and we NEVER go hiking without our Garmin InReach Mini 2, which allows us to send messages, get weather updates, track location, and place an SOS call in an emergency, even without phone service. It does require a subscription (starting at $12/month), but it’s worth every cent and has literally saved both of my parents’ lives in the backcountry!

Best overall: Garmin InReach Mini 2


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

GPS

Gone are the days where you have to purchase an expensive, clunky GPS device to access maps in the backcountry— the absolute best GPS resource is the smartphone you already own, paired with a reliable, low-cost GPS mapping app that allows you to access detailed offline Topo maps and navigate via GPS satellites, even without mobile service

Our go-to is CalTopo, which costs just $20/year and is by far the most feature-rich, affordable, and accurate mapping tool out there.

As a supplement, we also use James’ Garmin Fenix 7X Pro, which is great for on-trail wrist navigation and turn-by-turn cues. But I still wouldn’t rely on it as our only GPS source.

Best GPS app: CalTopo (mobile app)

Best GPS watch: Garmin Fenix 7X Pro


First Aid Kit

A solid first aid kit is something every hiker should carry. Pre-assembled kits from Adventure Medical are a great place to start, but as you get more trail time under your belt, you’ll want to customise it based on your needs and preferences.

We always include:
• a mix of NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)
• antihistamines (Claritin for allergies, Benadryl for bites/stings)
• a small selection of stomach meds (like Imodium or Pepto tabs)
• a roll of KT tape (insanely versatile for everything from blisters to rolled ankles)
• alcohol wipes, antiseptic, a few large gauze pads, and blister plasters like Compeed

Best pre-packaged First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Ultralight .5


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

Headlamp

Essential even for day-hikes— if you end up hiking out late or anything goes wrong, you’ll be SO glad you brought one. Rechargeable options save on waste and weight.

Best overall: Black Diamond Spot 400-R


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

Powerbank

I always throw in a compact powerbank with built-in universal cables to top up my phone, headlamp, Garmin InReach, or whatever else requires additional battery. This is a safety essential, not an optional extra!

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


a water filter allows you to fill up from any lake or stream

Water storage & food

Staying properly fuelled and hydrated is key to having a strong day on the trail. Always carry more water than you think you’ll need, and bring a filter if there’s any chance you’ll need to refill. When it comes to snacks, think energy-dense, easy to eat, and trail-tested, and add electrolytes to your water for any hike where you’re sweating a lot, working hard, or gaining significant elevation—it’s a game changer.


Water filter

Even for day-hikes, a compact water filter is absolutely essential, enabling you to easily refill on the go from lakes or creeks without worrying about bacteria (take it from someone who’s had Giardia, a filter is non-negotiable).

Best overall: Katadyn BeFree 1.oL Water Filter


Water bottle or bladder

I don’t use bladders on overnight backpacking trips since they can be so annoying to fill, but for day-hiking, they are the BEST way to stay consistently hydrated. We love 2-3L bladders for sipping on the move, but Nalgene bottles work well, too— especially in cold weather when hoses might freeze.

Best water bottle: Nalgene Wide Mouth

Best water bladder: Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir 2L


Electrolytes

If you’re sweating a lot and/or gaining serious elevation, drinking plain water simply isn’t enough to replenish the salts your body is losing. We recommend adding electrolyte tablets to every litre of water during hard hikes to help with performance and hydration!

Best overall: Liquid IV


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

Snacks (as needed)

Make sure you pack more snack food than you anticipate eating— these should be a variety of high-protein, high-calorie, and high-glucose snacks keep energy up and moods high.

This is obviously super personal, but I love Mini Kind Bars, Wonderful Pistachios, cheese sticks, salami from the supermarket, and a good handful of candy never goes astray.


Even in good weather, you’ll need summit layers to help cut wind!

Extra layers

This section isn’t about what clothes you should wear when you leave the trailhead— it’s about what layers you should be carrying in your pack as minimum safety gear in the event that conditions change during your hike. The exact layers for each trip will depend on the forecast, location, length, etc, but I always recommend packing conservatively— just because it’s warm and sunny when you start out doesn’t mean you won’t face wind, rain, or a sudden storm later in the day.

For most trails, carrying a long-sleeve layer, a synthetic insulating jacket, a GoreTex rain shell, and gloves/Buff is a smart, lightweight insurance policy that could make all the difference. Add or subtract at your discretion!

👉🏼 For more guidance on what to wear, check out my outdoor layering guide: How to build an outdoor layering system for backcountry hiking & extreme alpine conditions


Long-sleeve layer

This is your first layer of real warmth and protection if conditions start to shift— in summer, it might be as simple as a lightweight Merino wool top that keeps the sun off and regulates body temp; in cooler weather, opt for something heavier like a fleece quarter-zip.

Best for warmer weather: Arc’teryx Rho LT Zip Neck (women’s) / (men’s)

Best for colder weather: Arc’teryx Kyanite Zip Neck Base Layer Top (women’s) / Rho Heavyweight Zip Neck (men’s)


Synthetic insulation layer

For day-hikes, synthetic insulation is usually a smarter choice than down— it’ll still keep you warm if it gets wet and it’s totally fine to sweat in it on the trail.

If you’re doing a high-altitude hike or expect very cold summit conditions, you might consider also packing a down jacket, but for most trips, one synthetic insulation layer is plenty.

Best overall: Arc’teryx Atom Insulated Hoody (women’s) / (men’s)


GoreTex rain shell layer

A rain jacket is your lightweight shield against wind, storms, and unexpected mountain weather. You might not need it on a short forest stroll or desert hike, but for anything alpine, exposed, or longer than a few hours, this should always be in your pack— it’s not very heavy!

Best overall: Arc’teryx Beta SL (women’s) / (men’s)


Lightweight hiking gloves

They might seem like a small addition, but gloves can make a huge difference in your overall comfort if the weather turns. A light fleece or wool pair will keep your fingers warm on exposed ridgelines or breezy mornings, and they weigh basically nothing.

Best overall: Outdoor Research Trail Mix Gloves (women’s) / (men’s)


Waterproof exterior mittens

If there’s any chance of rain or snow, bring a lightweight pair of waterproof shell mittens to layer over your regular gloves for extra warmth and full weather protection. I’ve used the Outdoor Research Revel Shell Mitts for years, but they appear to have been discontinued, so these are the best alternative.

Best overall: Black Diamond Waterproof Overmitts


Buff

This super compact, multi-functional neck tube is an outdoor staple on every trip— use it as a scarf, headband, to block sun and wind, to wipe sweat off your face, to blow your nose… the list is endless and we never go hiking without one!

Best overall: Buff Original

Best for extreme cold: Buff Polar


hiking through the Simien Mountains of Ethiopia

Personal items

Even on a short day-hike, it pays to be prepared, so bring what you need to stay comfortable, clean, and safe as a minimum!


Bathroom bits

A simple bathroom kit goes a long way on a day-hike! Grab a small pouch or ZipLock and pack toilet paper, hand sanitiser, and a spare bag to pack out used bits— because nothing ruins a trail like someone else’s used tp.


Kula Cloth (for women)

This reusable antimicrobial pee cloth is designed specifically for backcountry female hygiene— it’s absorbent on one side, waterproof on the other, and treated with silver ions to resist bacteria growth and odour.

It’s easy to wash, dries fast, snaps shut for discretion, and clips onto the outside of your pack so it’s always accessible. Not only is it way more hygienic than carrying used toilet paper in a ziplock, but it also seriously reduces your trail waste, making it a no-brainer for sustainable hiking and women’s health on the go.

Best overall: Kula Cloth


Alta Via 1 2 4 Packing List- Italian Dolomites

Sun safety

Sun exposure can creep up on you fast, especially at high altitude or on snow. Always pack sunscreen (SPF 50+), SPF lip balm, a sun hat, and polarised sunnies to protect your eyes. If you’ll be on snow or glaciers, upgrade to glacier glasses for full protection.

Best glacier glasses: Julbo Vermont

Best sun hat: Arc’teryx Gamma 5-Panel Cap


Camera (optional!)

One woman’s extra is another woman’s essential, and we wouldn’t leave home without a camera! This is what we personally shoot all our mountain photos with:

Best overall: Canon R6 Mark II + 24-105mm lens

Best compact: Fujifilm x100vi


*Overview of our favourite day-hiking gear

BACKPACK
⭐️ day-hiking pack (25-35L): Osprey Tempest 30 (women’s) / Osprey Talon 33 (men’s)
⭐️ raincover: REI Co-op Duck’s Back Pack Rain Cover

BOOTS & POLES
⭐️ hiking boots: adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 GTX Hiking Boots (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ boot socks: Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ liner socks: Injinji Liner Crew
⭐️ trekking poles: Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles

SAFETY & NAVIGATION
⭐️ PLB/SOS: Garmin InReach Mini 2
⭐️ GPS: CalTopo app on mobile & Garmin fenix 7X Pro Watch
⭐️ First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Ultralight .5
⭐️ headlamp: Black Diamond Spot 400-R
⭐️ powerbank: VRURC Portable Charger with Built-in Cables, 10000mAh

WATER STORAGE & FOOD
⭐️ water filter: Katadyn BeFree 1.0L Water Filter
⭐️ water bottle OR bladder: Nalgene Wide Mouth / Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir 2L
⭐️ electrolytes: Liquid IV
⭐️ snacks (as needed)

EXTRA LAYERS
⭐️ long-sleeve layer: Arc’teryx Rho LT Zip Neck (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ synthetic insulation layer: Arc’teryx Atom Insulated Hoody (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ GoreTex rain shell layer: Arc’teryx Beta SL (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ lightweight hiking gloves: Outdoor Research Trail Mix Gloves (women’s) / (men’s)
⭐️ waterproof exterior mittens: Black Diamond Waterproof Overmitts
⭐️ Buff: Buff Original

PERSONAL ITEMS
⭐️ bathroom bits
⭐️ Kula Cloth (for women)
⭐️ sun safety: sunscreen, sunnies, sun hat, sun shirt
⭐️ camera: Fujifilm x100vi


Explore more outdoor packing lists

  • the ultimate DAY-HIKE packing list
  • the ultimate HUT-TO-HUT packing list (for multi-day hikes without camping gear)
  • intro to via ferrata + complete via ferrata gear list
  • the ultimate OVERNIGHT BACKPACKING packing list
  • the ultimate multi-day MOUNTAINEERING packing list
TAGS:general packing listsoutdoor packing lists
0 Comments
Share
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

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

You May Also Like

14 April 2025

How to choose the best tent for backpacking & mountaineering

27 November 2023

Introduction to via ferrata + complete via ferrata gear list

15 April 2025

How to build an outdoor layering system for backcountry hiking & extreme alpine conditions

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

read my story
currently exploring

currently exploring

mexico

read our gear guides

🥾 hiking boots

🎒 hiking backpacks

🌨️ cold-weather layers

⛺️ backpacking & alpine tents

🛌 sleeping bag & pads

🍪 backcountry food

📸 travel camera gear

✈️ travel clothing

trail guides

summit guides

itineraries

outdoor gear

GPS maps

recent posts

  • Climbing Iztaccíhuatl volcano

    2-week Mexico volcanoes itinerary: climbing Pico de Orizaba, Izta, Malinche & Toluca

    3 June 2025
  • Mexico City: the perfect 5-day itinerary for CDMX

    31 May 2025
  • Climbing Iztaccíhuatl volcano

    Driving in Mexico: essential road trip guide for foreigners

    28 May 2025
  • 10-day Rwanda road trip itinerary: gorillas, volcanoes & Lake Kivu

    25 May 2025
  • 2-week Patagonia itinerary: best of Torres del Paine & Los Glaciares/El Chaltén

    22 May 2025

@brookebeyond_
brooke ✨travel & mountain gal

@brookebeyond_

  • magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#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!
.
.
.
.
.
#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 ✨
.
.
.
.
#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
.
.
.
.
.
#easyhikes #swissalps #matterhorn #jungfraujoch #oeschinensee #stoos #switzerland
follow @brookebeyond_

travel beyond the ordinary

Explore my travel guides, custom itineraries & blog posts with an interactive world map ✨

all destinations

  • magical moments in the swiss alps 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#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!
.
.
.
.
.
#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 🐄🇨🇭🧀🫐🌺
.
.
.
.
.
#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_
•
Follow
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_
•
Follow
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”
6 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/5
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
•
Follow
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
View on Instagram |
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

  • start here
  • about
  • group trips
  • destinations
  • hiking guides
  • outdoor gear
  • custom GPS maps
  • privacy
  • contact

COPYRIGHT © 2025 BROOKE BEYOND. TRAVEL BEYOND THE ORDINARY. Site Powered by Pix & Hue.

 

Loading Comments...