Via Alpina

We rate this trip as strenuous. You should be an experienced hiker in good physical condition. You should be capable of walking -7-8 hours per day on good trails with some steep ascents and descents, averaging 2500-4000 vertical feet per day at an elevation up to about 8000 feet above sea level. Sure-footedness is important and if you have a history of severe vertigo, it may impact your ability to do this tour. 

Please note that on Day 4 there is a descent of about 5600 feet, for which there is no lift or public transportation to reduce the descent. The other days may list a range on the stats meaning that there are ways to shorten the hikes if needed with lifts or local transportation. The group tours will generally hike on the upper side of the stat ranges. Trekking poles are highly recommended on this tour.

• Assume 2.5 miles/hour on the flat.

• Assume 1200 feet of up per hour.

• Assume 2000 feet of down per hour.