Summer activities

For TSA Scout groups, the Hill walking terrain definitions (POR Rule 9a.4.7) and guidance apply anywhere in the world, however in Kandersteg the altitude criteria applies to the height gained from the low point in the area, rather than from sea level. (POR Rule 9a.3.1.9)  

The Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) Hiking Scale categorises all paths in Switzerland using a rating of T1-T6. Remoteness, difficulty, navigational skills, exposure and technical skills are all taken into account with this rating. KISC has linked these to the equivalent UK terrain level:  

UK Terrain Zero describes locations that don’t have steep slopes or rocky terrain and are less than 30 minutes from either a road reachable by a normal road-going ambulance, or any habitation with a telephone. (Ref: POR Rule 9b.4.7). A hillwalking permit is not required to lead walks in Terrain Zero.  

Routes include:  

Bergweg with a SAC rating of T2 can be considered TSA Terrain One.  

They can be steeper trails with some exposure and cross areas of loose rock. More exposed areas are generally, but not always, equipped with a cable. Surefootedness is needed but the average hiker generally does not need to use their hands for progress.  

T2 Bergweg are marked on the ground with red and white paint and yellow signposts with red and white tips. On the Kandersteg area map they marked with a dotted red line. Signposting and route marking are usually excellent but basic navigational skills are needed.  

Routes include:   

Bergweg with a SAC rating of T3 can be considered TSA Terrain Two.   

It indicates that the path will often be steep and in remote locations several hours from the nearest habitation. Hikers will need to use their hands to cross cabled, exposed sections. As such, a head for heights and some previous hiking experience are needed for these trails.  

T3 Bergweg paths are marked on the ground, the same as T2 Bergweg paths- with red and white paint and yellow signposts with red and white tips. On the Kandersteg area map they marked with a dotted red line. Signposting and marking can be intermittent, so good navigational skills are needed, especially in poor visibility.  

Routes include:   

T4 and T5 routes are also known as Alpinewegs and would be considered TSA Specialist Terrain.  

They can be in remote locations, cover difficult steep rocky terrain or cross large snowfields and often require alpine skills, equipment and experience.   

They are sometimes marked on the ground with blue and white markings and blue or blue and white signposts. On the Kandersteg area they are marked with a blue dotted line. Sometimes these routes are unmarked both on the map and on the ground.  

TSA groups proposing routes covering Specialist Terrain need specific approval from their relevant Lead Volunteer, following advice from someone with specific knowledge and experience of the activity, in addition to a Terrain 2 hillwalking permit. 

Seasonal snow patches can linger well into the summer months (including July and August in extreme cases). When there is any snow on the ground, including snow patches which cannot easily be avoided, the permit needs to be for 'Winter Conditions'. KISC staff may be able to assist with local conditions, reports and advice.  

Leaders must make their own judgements and turn back if they do not have a winter hillwalking permit and/or equipment to safely complete the route.  

There are various off road cycling routes in the Kandersteg area. Trail guides can be found here. For TSA Scout groups, the TSA cycling Environment definitions (POR Rule 9b.4.4) and guidance apply:  

The Environment 0 routes should be led by someone with experience of off road cycling, but no permit is required.   

The Sunnbüel to Kandersteg bike trail is far more challenging and only suitable for those with experience of off-road cycling in a downhill environment. This route is in Environment 2 and so the leader requires an Environment 2 Off road cycling permit to lead this activity.  

For all cycling activities, helmets must be worn by all TSA members undertaking this activity.  

Full information and rules relating to off road cycling can be found in FS120456 Off road cycling.  

The Kandersteg area has a huge range of both single- and multi-pitch climbing venues, catering to various abilities and interests. Many routes are ‘sport style’ with in-situ bolted protection and belay stations. The quantity and quality of in-situ bolted protection can vary hugely both within and across local climbing crags. Activity leaders should research the relevant climbing venue before use and inspect all in-situ equipment before use. All groups must be led by someone holding the relevant level of climbing permit for natural conditions and whether single- or multi-pitch routes are planned. Helmets must be worn by all TSA members undertaking this activity. Routes are typically graded using the French sport system.  

Full information and rules relating to climbing can be found in FS120452 Climbing and Abseiling.  

Tubing activities are classified as swimming and must be managed in the same way by someone with experience of this type of activity. (FS120620 Swimming)  

Self-led rafting is also available in the area, with small rafts for 1-6 people. This activity requires an adult per raft. The water in this area is classified as B2 by TSA Scouting standards and therefore a B2 permit for white water rafting would be required for self-led trips.