Tour: Forest nature trail | Blatten-Belalp

0:30 h
1.15 km
122 m
1 m
1,328 m
1,449 m
121 m
Start: Blatten-Belalp Tourismus
Destination: Blatten-Belalp Tourismus

Marble Run Hiking Trail in the Forest – Experience Play, Fun and Nature!

Discover a very special hiking trail for the whole family! On a 40-minute walk through the forest, you’ll come across six unique marble runs made from fallen trees, deadwood and winter storm damage – lovingly brought back to life by the Massa Forestry team.

The runs are made from solid wooden logs and blend harmoniously into the natural surroundings. Children aged 3 and up can explore nature through play as their wooden marble winds its way through the curves.

The path isn’t steep but steadily uphill – ideal for families with small children. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

Wooden marbles are available for CHF 2.– at the tourism office or at the Belalp Bahnen ticket desk.

An outing that combines exercise, nature and fun – perfect for a family afternoon!

Marble Run Hiking Trail through the Rischiner Forest – an Adventure for Little Explorers and Adventurers

The 1.15 km adventure trail leads through the mystical Rischiner Forest and combines playful discovery with the beauty and tranquillity of nature. Over 122 vertical metres, you’ll come across six handcrafted marble runs made from logs, lovingly built by the Massa Forestry Service using deadwood and storm-damaged trees – a sustainable nature project that delights all ages.

The starting point is at the valley station of the Belalp Bahnen in Blatten. The trail steadily ascends through the shady forest and ends at the Stalden parking area in the Rischiner Forest. Walking time is approx. 40 minutes – longer, of course, if you take time to play and explore.

Wooden marbles for the runs can be purchased for CHF 2.– at the Blatten tourist office or at the Belalp Bahnen ticket counter.

🌲 Important information:

– The trail is not suitable for strollers (unpaved forest paths, roots, and steps). – When wet or rainy, the ground can be slippery – please wear sturdy shoes and walk with care. – Along the trail, you’ll find two Swiss family barbecue spots – perfect for a short break.

🔥 Please note: Firewood is not provided, and reservations are not possible.

✨ The Rischiner Forest, with its moss-covered ground, gnarled trees, and magical light, invites you to dream and discover. You might even spot traces of dwarves, fairies, or the little Belalp witch, who – so the story goes – sometimes flies through the treetops on especially quiet days…

A perfect outdoor adventure for families with children aged 3 and up – full of wonder, fun, and shared experiences!

Blatten-Belalp Tourismus

Pavements

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Asphalt

Trail

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suitable

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Directions

The themed trail first follows the valley descent route towards the Rischinerwald. There, the Bruchji dam is crossed. From this point, you can comfortably follow the marble runs through the Rischinerwald to the Park'n'Ride Stalden area. A large barbecue area invites you to take a break.

The hike takes around 40 minutes, has only a slight incline, and is therefore also suitable for small children. Be aware: the ground may be slippery when wet.

The trail is not suitable for strollers!

Equipment

Good hiking shoes, clothing suitable for the weather, sun and rain protection, as well as a sufficient supply of food and drinks, should there be no refreshment stops or shopping facilities available or open. Although the trail is very well marked throughout, you should always have a suitable hiking map with you for safety reasons. Take sticks or other aids with you.

Directions & Parking facilities

Arrival by car

From western Switzerland: A9 Lausanne - Vevey, or north-western Switzerland: A12 Bern - Vevey: A9 - Sierre: main road Sierre - Brig

From north-western Switzerland: A6 Berne - Thun - Spiez: main road Spiez - Kandersteg (Lötschberg tunnel car transport) - Goppenstein - Gampel - Brig

From eastern and central Switzerland: Andermatt - Realp (year-round Furka car transport; in summer via Furka Pass) - Oberwald - Brig

From Ticino (in summer): Airolo - Nufenenpass - Ulrichen - Brig

Or via Centovalli - Domodossola - Simplonpass - Brig

From Italy (Aosta, Mt. Blanc Tunnel): Aosta - Grand Saint Bernard tunnel (over the pass in summer) - Martigny: A9 highway - Sierre: Sierre - Brig main road.

Or via Domodossola - Simplon Pass - Brig

Blatten bei Naters

From Brig via Naters to Blatten bei Naters, then by cable car to the car-free Belalp.

You will find payable parking spaces in the Chienzlichrommu and in the underground car park in Blatten bei Naters.

You can find further information at:

ww.belalp.ch

Blatten bei Naters can be reached by public transport from Brig or Naters.

You can find the timetable and further information on how to get there at: www.belalp.ch

Additional information

Surefootedness and good shoes are a must for the hike through the very natural primeval forest of Blatten.

Author´s Tip / Recommendation of the author

The wooden marbles for the runs can be purchased for CHF 2.– at the Blatten tourism office or at the Belalp Bahnen ticket desk.

Safety guidelines

The trail is not suitable for strollers (unpaved forest paths, roots and steps). In wet or rainy conditions, the ground can become slippery – please wear sturdy footwear and walk with caution.

Event

Place of interest

Tours