05 Apr The Upper Grindelwaldglacier
The Upper Grindelwaldglacier is a very famous glacier of the Bernese Oberland. It is almost impossible to watch today. For example, from the upper glacier and from the Hotel and Restaurant Wetterhorn located there, one does not see any glacier anymore, but has the possibility to explore the nature and the former surroundings. As approximately 20 years ago, the tongue of the Grindelwaldglacier still reached down to the entrance of the canyon. And in the 18th and 19th century, the glacier still shaped the whole village. Thus, the glacier partly protruded up to the height of the Hotel Wetterhorn. This is why the glacier was one of the most popular destinations for excursions in Switzerland at that time.
Climate
The glacier reacted then as now very much to climatic influences. Because it also has a relatively narrow and flat tongue and lies over a steep rock bed. For example, when the sun warms the surrounding rock, the ice at the base begins to melt. This is why the phenomenon of global warming and its consequences is clearly visible at the Grindelwaldglacier. In August 2013 the tongue of the glacier split into two and since then the glacier has been the largest dead ice tongue in Switzerland.
Area
The glacier has a length of about 6 km and covers an area of about 10 km², at present.
Tips
In the upper Grindelwaldglacier area there is a lot to experience, be it the stony rock bed where the glacier used to be. Or the history and remaining resources of the Wetterhorn lift. In addition there is a fitness trail for sporty people in the area and many paths that are ideal for morning jogging. For families there is a lot of space and possibilities to pass the time, e.g. you can go to the Briggbach dam or there are also countless possibilities for barbecues in the area.
Would you like to learn more about the Grindelwaldglacier? Write to us at info@chalet-anemone.ch
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