Join Gerda on a cold circular hike from Eigenthal to Rägeflüeli. The ascent in light clothing takes about two hours and is rewarded by a fantastic view from the top of the Rägeflüeli (1582 m). We cover 600 metres in altitude over a distance of 4.74 km. At the summit, we put our warm clothes back on and those who are hungry can enjoya a picnic they have brought with them. We then descend in either light or warm clothing on a different route and after another 1.5 hours we reach the Unterlauelen alpine inn, where we treat ourselves to a coffee/dessert. Then it's another 30 minutes on flat terrain back to the car/bus stop. There is also the option of an ice bath in the Rümlig stream on this last stretch. Depending on the snow conditions, it may be necessary to bring snowshoes.
What do I need to take with me on the cold hike?
Winter hiking boots and possibly snowshoes that can be attached to the rucksack (will be notified at least 3 days before the hike)
Hiking poles/ski poles with winter discs (recommended)
Light clothing for the ascent
Warm clothing (long trousers, jacket, hat, gloves, etc.) for afterwards
Sunglasses and sun cream for face and body
Backpack to carry the warm clothes during the hike
(warm) drink / tea
Lunch picnic (possibly warm soup or similar)
optional: thermal mat to sit on during the break
optional: swimming gear :-)
optional: gaiters
optional: second pair of socks for the way back
Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point for the hike is at 10:15 a.m. at the Postauto stop Eigenthal, Talboden. If you wish to travel from Lucerne by Postauto 71, you can take the 09:40 a.m. connection from Lucerne railway station. Please make sure you are on time.
What does the hike cost?
The hike is free of charge for our club members. For non-members, it costs CHF 20 per person.
Participation requirements
You must be in good health on the day of the hike and able to cover the 600 metres of altitude plus/minus in the ‘normal’ hiking trail time. The hike does not pass any exposed sections and is therefore also suitable for people with a fear of heights.
Registration / maximum number of participants
The maximum number of participants for this hike is 12 people.
After your registration, Gerda will add you to a WhatsApp group created for this event, if you have WhatsApp. Further communication will take place in this group. If you do not have WhatsApp, you will be informed separately.
The event will only take place in dry weather.
What is a cold hike?
A cold hike is a special type of cold training where people walk or hike in light clothing, often in shorts and a T-shirt or just swimwear, through a cold environment, e.g. in the snow or in low temperatures. The aim is not just to ‘endure’ the cold, but to specifically benefit from the physical and mental advantages of exposure to the cold.
What is the difference between a cold hike and other forms of cold exposure, such as winter swimming?
While a cold hike emphasises physical exercise and prolonged, moderate exposure to the cold, winter swimming offers a more extreme, but shorter form of exposure to the cold. The mental challenge of a cold hike is to endure the cold for a longer period of time while remaining calm and focussed. The physical movement provides some distraction and aids heat generation, but it can require mental discipline to endure the cold stimulus for an extended period of time.
What are the health benefits of cold hiking?
The potential health benefits of cold hiking are similar to those of winter swimming, e.g. strengthening the immune system, improved circulation, increased mental resilience, mood enhancement and increased fat burning.
What kind of clothing should I wear during a cold hike?
How much clothing you wear during the cold hike is entirely up to you. Typically, men only wear shorts, while women wear shorts and a T-shirt, bikini top or sports bra. However, it is also permitted to wear more clothing. As a lot of heat is lost through the head, many cold hikers wear a hat or headband. At the starting point of the hike, take off your warm clothing and stow it in your rucksack. This way, your warm clothes are always ready to hand should you need them during the hike.