Switzerland’s accident-prevention agency BFU, the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) and the national hiking-trail association are developing a digital map to show how exposed a path is. A green-to-red colour system will indicate the steepness of the terrain immediately beside hiking routes.
BFU records an average of 55 fatal falls while hiking each year in Switzerland, while more than 40,000 people are injured annually. Mountain rescuers flew a record number of missions for hiking emergencies last year, with the most in the canton of Valais.
BFU hiking expert Susanne Baumann said many accidents happen where the terrain is steep. Robert Andenmatten, an Air Zermatt helicopter pilot for 35 years, said summer callouts have increased and foot injuries often involve unsuitable footwear. He said social media draws inexperienced visitors to scenic hotspots. More than four million Swiss residents hike regularly, in addition to tourists.
The Alpstein region is considered an accident hotspot. Ranger Emanuel Gmünder, working with volunteers there for the first time this year, warns visitors to stay on marked trails. He described hikers who underestimated the terrain, including one who arrived with a wheeled suitcase.
Experts are testing the map on steep routes, including the trail from Interlaken to Harder, where some sections appear orange or red. The project is in its final development phase, and a basic version is planned for 2027. Its goal is to help hikers choose routes suited to their experience and ability.