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Rhône Glacier: Journey to the Source

Discover the Rhône Glacier in the Swiss Alps: explore the ice grotto, witness glacial retreat, and learn about climate change impact.

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Explore the Rhône Glacier, the source of the Rhône River, nestled in the Swiss Alps. Witness the impact of climate change firsthand as you venture into the ice grotto, a man-made tunnel carved into the glacier, and learn about this natural wonder's history and future.

A brief summary to Rhône Glacier

  • Obergoms, CH

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes with good traction, as the path to the ice grotto can be slippery, especially in summer.
  • Bring a warm jacket, even in summer, as the temperature inside the ice grotto is cold.
  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and find parking easily.
  • Check the Furka Pass status before you go, as it is usually open from late spring to early autumn.
  • Consider hiking the free upper trail for panoramic views of the glacier and surrounding landscape.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Rhône Glacier is accessible via the Furka Pass road. From Lake Lucerne, take A2 to Gotthardstrasse in Göschenen. Merge onto A2 and take exit 40 toward Göschenen / Gotthardpass / Furkapass / Oberalppass/ Andermatt. Take the 1st exit onto Route 19 heading to Furkapass/Realp. The destination will be on the left. There is a large parking lot available near Hotel Belvédère. Parking is free. Be aware that the Furka Pass may be closed during winter months due to snow.

  • Public Transport

    Take the PostBus 681 from Gletsch, Post to Furka Passhöhe. The bus ride takes approximately 16 minutes. The bus operates three times a day. Check the SBB timetable for the most up-to-date schedule. A single fare costs CHF 2-4.

  • Walking

    From the Grimsel Pass, it is possible to walk to the Furka Pass. The hike is approximately 13.6 km and takes around 2 hours and 42 minutes. Follow the well-marked trails. Be prepared for a rocky path and changing weather conditions.

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Discover more about Rhône Glacier

The Rhône Glacier, located in the Valais canton of Switzerland, is the birthplace of the Rhône River and a significant contributor to Lake Geneva. For over 10,000 years, this glacier has shaped the landscape, but in recent times, it has become a poignant example of glacial retreat due to climate change. Since the Furka Pass opened 150 years ago, the Rhône Glacier has been easily accessible, drawing tourists to witness its icy beauty. The iconic Hotel Belvédère, located opposite the glacier, has been a landmark for travelers since it was built. One of the main attractions is the ice grotto, a tunnel carved into the glacier since 1870. Each year, the grotto is re-drilled, offering visitors a glimpse into the glacier's icy depths. Inside, you'll marvel at the blue ice formations, a truly magical sight. However, due to the glacier's constant movement and melting, the tunnel shrinks throughout the season. To mitigate the effects of melting, portions of the glacier are covered with white blankets during the warmer months. While these measures help to reduce melting by up to 70%, experts estimate that the glacier may disappear by the end of the 21st century. A visit to the Rhône Glacier offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of the Alps while contemplating the impact of climate change on our world. The area also offers hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding landscape and learn more about the glacier's history and evolution.

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