Level of difficulty of the hiking trails explained

When indicating the difficulty level of the trails, I used the official scale for hiking trails T1, T2, and T3, as well as a four-level scale to indicate physical condition: very easy, easy, medium, and hard. I have marked them accordingly with asterisks.

T1

• These are hiking trails that are generally accessible and usually designed for individuals with a certain level of physical fitness. They typically do not have asphalt or concrete surfaces. Steeper sections are protected by handrails and have steps.
• These hiking trails do not pose any particular requirements for the users.
• They are marked in yellow (i.e., the entire signpost is yellow, including the directional part – the tip).

T2 – T3

• These are mountain hiking trails, usually steep, narrow, and partially exposed. Particularly difficult sections are secured with ropes or chains.
• Hikers must be sure-footed, free from vertigo, in good physical condition, and aware of the dangers in the mountains (rockfall, slipping and falling hazards, weather changes).
• Sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate gear are prerequisites.
• The trail markings are yellow with white-red-white endings.

T4 – T6

• These are alpine hiking trails that partially lead through snow-covered terrain, over glaciers or scree, and over rocks with short climbing passages; sometimes also without paths.
• Hikers must be sure-footed, free from vertigo, in very good physical condition, and thoroughly familiar with the dangers in the mountains. In addition to standard equipment, they may need navigation devices, a rope, a helmet, an ice axe, and crampons.
• The trail markings are blue, white, and blue-white.

Winter Hiking Trails

The winter hiking trails, on the other hand, are marked with pink signs only during the season. Additionally, there are usually pink posts along the path.

Further Information

For more detailed information, please visit the official website of the Swiss Alpine Club.