Take in the natural beauty of Switzerland’s third-highest waterfall from a distance in winter or hike closer during the warmer months to feel its misty spray.
Towering over the picturesque town of Lauterbrunnen in the Bernese Highlands of the Swiss Alps, Staubbach Falls adds a sense of wonder to an already stunning landscape. Visible from many vantage points and easily reached, the falls are one of the most photographed features of the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Enjoy the many different views of the Staubbach Falls that you will get when you make your way through the picture-perfect glacier-carved scenery of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. One such famous view is the traditional Swiss architecture and whitewashed church of Lauterbrunnen village in the foreground, with the mighty falls towering in the background.
Walk through the village and to the falls to hear its thunder and feel its spray. The falls tumble from a staggering height of 974 feet (297 meters), with much of the drop being freefall rather than flowing over rocks. Notice how this long freefall creates a fine mist and droplets which have inspired the “Staub,” which means dust, part of the waterfalls’ name.
Look for the sheep that graze happily in the fields at the base of the falls. The moisture from the falls provides plenty of lush grass for the animals to dine on. Walk to the small but interesting cemetery close to the base of the falls for a different perspective.
Put on your raincoat and walking shoes to follow the path to the upper section of the falls. Glance out over the valley and the thundering falls next to you as you make your way up. The rocks are constantly wet from the spray from the waterfall, so take care on the often slippery surface toward the top. Head to the end of the path to almost behind the falls for yet another good vantage point for pictures.
The Staubbach Falls are easily reached by foot from the center of Lauterbrunnen. There is a small car park nearby. Entry to the falls is free. Note that the path up to the falls is only open in warmer months due to safety concerns in icy conditions. Many accommodations in Lauterbrunnen also have great views of the falls, providing a great excuse to linger a while longer.
